Spicy Lamb Chops with Tomato-Cucumber Raita

Geema's Note:

These lamb chops provide a powerpunch of flavor that is toned down by the coolness of the tomato-cucumber raita. It's spicy and refreshing all at the same time! Feel free to cut down on the curry power and cayenne to suit your own preference or for a milder version. You can have these chops on the table in just over 30 minutes.

• Total Time: 20 mins
• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 5 mins

Ingredients:

Servings: 4

• 2 tablespoons curry powder
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne
• 1 pinch nutmeg
• 4 bone-in shoulder lamb chops , 1/2 inch thick
• 8 ounces plain yogurt, whole milk or 8 ounces low-fat plain yogurt
• ½ cup cucumber , peeled seeded and diced small
• ½ cup tomato , peeled seeded and diced small
• 2 tablespoons fresh mint , chopped
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
• 2 teaspoons fresh lime juice
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon minced garlic

Directions:

1. Combine yogurt, cucumber, tomato, mint, mayonnaise, lime juice, 1/2 tsp salt and minced garlic in a medium bowl.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Combine curry powder, sugar, cumin, 1 tsp salt, cayenne pepper, and nutmeg in a small bowl.
4. Generously press the spice rub over both sides of the lamb chops.
5. Grill, or pan grill chops over medium-hot heat for 2-3 minutes per side for medium rare.
6. Serve with the cucumber-tomato raita.

Reviews

[Gerry sans Sanddunes]

Simple, direct and TASTY!

[Sue Lau]

The spices in the spice rub are very nicely balanced and give a great flavor that pairs nicely with the lamb without too much curry flavor. The raita is very cooling and has not too much of any one ingredient, which gives it a lot of interest! You have a very good recipe here, good luck in the contest!

[Bergy]

I would be pleased to serve these chops at any dinner party but for guests I would substitute loin chops. Follow the instructions and use only medium heat to cook them the spice on the outside can burn very easily I did not find them too hot , loved the blend of flavors from the raita it complimented the spicy flavor of the chops. I served them with lightly buttered whole wheat pasta, lightly steamed new carrots & cauliflower florets. The raita was excellent with the pasta. Thanks for yet another great lamb chop recipe