How to Make Delicious Mutton Chops at Home

Mutton chops – a classic dish that’s both flavorful and tender. Here’s a simple recipe to make delicious mutton chops:

How to Make Mutton Chops

Ingredients:

• 4-6 lamb or mutton chops (about 1 inch thick)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Optional: lemon wedges and fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the mutton chops: Trim any excess fat from the chops, if needed.
2. Season with spices: Rub both sides of each chop with salt, black pepper, cumin, and curry powder.
3. Sear the chops: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C). Sear the mutton chops for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned on both sides. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
4. Soften the onions: Reduce heat to medium and add sliced onions to the same skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become translucent and slightly caramelized.
5. Add garlic: Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
6. Simmer with broth or water: Pour in enough lamb or beef broth (or just water) to cover the mutton chops about halfway. Bring the liquid to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
7. Cook the mutton chops: Return the seared mutton chops to the skillet and spoon some of the onions over them. Cover with a lid or foil and cook for 10-15 minutes on each side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.

Tips:

• Adjust cooking time based on thickness and personal preference.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches at least 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare.
• For more flavor, add aromatics like ginger or cardamom during the simmering process.
• Serve hot with lemon wedges and fresh cilantro as garnish.

Variations:

You can experiment with different spices, marinades, or cooking methods to create your twist on mutton chops:

• Indian-inspired: Add garam masala, cayenne pepper, or a mixture of ground coriander and cinnamon.
• Spicy: Include diced jalapeños or serrano peppers in the onion mix.
• Grilled: Preheat an outdoor grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C). Sear mutton chops for 2-3 minutes per side, then transfer them to a plate and let rest.
• Greek-style: Add some crumbled feta cheese on top of each chop during the last minute of cooking.
• Korean-inspired: Mix in some Gochujang (Korean chili paste) with soy sauce and brown sugar for a sweet and spicy marinade.
• Middle Eastern style: Rub mutton chops with sumac, paprika, and olive oil before grilling or pan-frying.

Serving Suggestions:

1. Serve hot with your choice of sides:
   • Roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus
   • Mashed potatoes or creamy polenta
   • Grilled or sautéed greens like spinach, kale, or collard greens
2. For a more substantial meal:
   • Add some crusty bread or warm pita for sopping up juices and sauces.
   • Include a side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese.

Nutrition Information (approximate per serving):

• Calories: 450
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated fat: 15g
• Cholesterol: 60mg
• Sodium: 400mg
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Protein: 35g

Enjoy your delicious mutton chops!