Description
Tandoori Masala Lamb Chops are tender lamb chops marinated in a flavorful blend of Greek yogurt, tandoori spices, and fresh aromatics, then grilled to juicy perfection. This Indian-inspired main course offers a smoky, spiced taste perfect for a hearty dinner, garnished with fresh cilantro and served alongside lemon wedges for an added zesty finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Marinade
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons tandoori masala spice blend
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Meat
- 8 lamb chops (about 1 inch thick)
Garnish
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl or zip-top bag, combine Greek yogurt, tandoori masala, lemon juice, olive oil, grated fresh ginger, minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to create a smooth marinade.
- Marinate the Lamb Chops: Add the lamb chops to the marinade, ensuring each chop is evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat.
- Bring to Room Temperature: Remove the lamb chops from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before cooking to let them come to room temperature, which helps them cook evenly on the grill.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, preparing it for direct cooking of the lamb.
- Grill the Lamb Chops: Place the lamb chops on the hot grill and cook for 4 to 5 minutes on each side for medium-rare doneness. Adjust the cooking time based on your preferred level of doneness.
- Rest the Meat: Once cooked, transfer the chops to a plate and allow them to rest for 5 minutes to let the juices redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful meat.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the lamb chops and serve with lemon wedges on the side for a vibrant citrus touch. Pair with basmati rice, naan, or cucumber raita if desired.
Notes
- For an enhanced smoky flavor, cook the lamb chops over charcoal instead of a gas grill or grill pan.
- This dish pairs beautifully with basmati rice, naan bread, or a cooling cucumber raita on the side.
- Marinating overnight intensifies the flavor and tenderizes the meat more effectively.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus at least 2 hours marinating time)
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Indian
