Grilled Lamb Chops with Durban Curry-Coconut Cream
Grilled Lamb Chops with Durban Curry-Coconut Cream is a delightful fusion dish that combines the rich flavors of tender lamb with a creamy and aromatic curry sauce. This recipe not only elevates your grilling game but also brings an exotic twist to your dinner table. Lamb chops marinated in a mix of spices and grilled to perfection, paired with a luscious coconut curry sauce, create an unforgettable meal that your guests will rave about.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This dish is perfect for those who love bold flavors, the combination of spices, and the richness of coconut cream. The marinade infuses the lamb with a spicy, aromatic flavor, while the curry sauce adds a creamy texture that complements the savory notes of the meat. It’s a crowd-pleaser that can easily impress for dinner parties or family gatherings. Plus, it’s fairly straightforward to prepare!
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to create a mouthwatering dish for 3-4 servings:
- For the Lamb Chops:
- 12-14 lamb loin chops, 1.5″ thick, frenched
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp Durban masala or spice mix
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, grated
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- For the Durban Curry-Coconut Cream Sauce:
- 1 onion, finely diced
- 2 tbsp Durban curry paste or 1 tbsp Madras curry powder + 1 tsp cayenne
- 1 can (400ml) coconut cream
- 1 tbsp kakadu plum powder or tamarind paste
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp black mustard seeds
- 5-6 curry leaves (fresh or dried)
- 1 red chili, sliced (optional for heat)
- 1 tbsp butter
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Lamb Chops
Begin by preparing the marinade. In a medium bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of Durban masala, 4 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon of grated ginger, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of brown sugar. Stir well to mix the ingredients into a cohesive paste. Coat the lamb chops with the marinade thoroughly, ensuring all surfaces are well covered. For best results, let the chops marinate for at least 1 hour, or overnight in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Step 2: Make the Durban Curry-Coconut Cream Sauce
In a large pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until golden brown and soft. Add 1 teaspoon of black mustard seeds and 5-6 curry leaves, letting them sizzle and release their aromas for about 30 seconds. Next, stir in 2 tablespoons of Durban curry paste (or the Madras curry powder and cayenne mixture) with 1 tablespoon of tomato paste and the optional sliced red chili. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is fragrant.
Now, pour in the can of coconut cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Stir in 1 tablespoon of kakadu plum powder or tamarind paste for a tangy touch. Finally, finish the sauce with 1 tablespoon of butter for richness, stirring until it’s fully melted and the sauce is glossy. Keep the sauce warm while you prepare the lamb chops.
Step 3: Grill the Lamb Chops
Prepare your grill or cast-iron pan, heating it to a smoking hot temperature. Once ready, place the marinated lamb chops on the grill and sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side for medium-rare. Adjust the grilling time based on your preferred level of doneness. As you flip the chops halfway through cooking, consider stacking them to allow for a nice presentation. During the last minute of grilling, brush a spoonful of the warm curry sauce over the lamb for added flavor.
Serve
To serve, smear a generous portion of the coconut curry sauce onto each plate. Place the grilled lamb chops artfully on top, allowing the sauce to pool around them. For a touch of freshness and color, garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley. This presentation not only tastes delightful but also looks incredibly appetizing!
FAQ
Can I use another type of meat instead of lamb?
Yes, you can substitute chicken or beef chops. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as each meat has different cooking requirements.
How can I ensure my lamb chops are tender?
Marinating the lamb chops for a longer time deepens the flavor and tenderizes the meat. Additionally, cooking them to medium-rare will retain moisture.
Is the Durban curry paste spicy?
Durban curry paste has a robust flavor profile and might be on the spicier side, depending on the brand. You can adjust the spice level by reducing the amount or choosing a milder curry.
Can I make the curry sauce in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the curry sauce up to a day in advance. Just warm it up gently before serving the dish.
What sides pair well with grilled lamb chops?
Consider serving the lamb chops with a light salad, roasted vegetables, or basmati rice to soak up the delicious curry sauce.
Conclusion
Grilled Lamb Chops with Durban Curry-Coconut Cream is an exciting and savory dish that brings a taste of global cuisine to your kitchen. With vibrant spices and creamy coconut, this recipe tantalizes the taste buds, making it perfect for special occasions or a cozy dinner at home. Enjoy making this dish and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills!
