| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 15 mins – 20 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 450 | 22g | 6g | 15g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 8g | 2g | 40g | 1g |
Allow me to introduce you to an East-meets-West fusion that I’ve fallen head over heels for, the Sampaloc Spiced Lamb Chops. What sets this dish apart is the fruit-based Sampaloc paste, which is derived from the tantalizingly tart Tamarind fruit. Just as my Nonna would often incorporate tomatoes into her recipes for depth, the Sampaloc paste performs in much the same way – but with an extra kick. This recipe truly marries my Italian roots with a twist of bold, savory flavors.
The Love for This Dish: A Fusion of Flavors
The beauty of the Sampaloc Spiced Lamb Chops is, undeniably, the fusion of flavors. The lamb chops are first marinated in a mixture of Sampaloc paste, brown sugar, minced garlic, and soy sauce, enveloping it in a blanket of tangy sweetness. The addition of a freshly ground red chili and a hearty helping of ginger amps up the heat, creating an exciting play of flavors that will have your palate dancing.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
This dish has similar flavor profiles to your traditional Sunday roast, but with an undeniably enticing spin. I find that the Sampaloc Spiced Lamb Chops pairs perfectly with a side of Jasmine rice or even a helping of my home-recipe pasta. The rice or pasta serves to balance the robust flavors of Sampaloc spiced lamb, complementing rather than competing, leading to an incredibly satisfying meal.
The Health Benefits: More Than Just Taste
Moreover, the Sampaloc Spiced Lamb Chops is not just a triumph of taste. Each ingredient contributes to its nutritional profile. Lamb, is an excellent source of high-quality protein, essential vitamins like B12 and minerals. The star player, Tamarind is rich in dietary fibres and antioxidants. Research suggests that it can help moderate blood sugar levels and assist in weight control. Garlic, an anti-inflammatory powerhouse, promotes heart health while ginger aids digestion. Lastly, the chili peppers contain capsaicin, which is known to help boost metabolism.
To conclude, the Sampaloc Spiced Lamb Chops is a harmonious fusion dish that holds a special place in my heart with its comforting, robust flavors and its connections to my Italian-American family traditions. The recipe takes pride in its health benefits, making it not only a feast for the palate but also a win for overall well-being. Enjoy it with loved ones around the dinner table, just as I do, and experience the symphony of flavors and feel-good factor in each bite.
What You’ll Need
- 12 lamb chops
- 1 cup of sampaloc (tamarind) paste
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 fresh red chili, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon of ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons of brown sugar
- 1/2 cup of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
- 1/4 cup of water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
Method
Step One
Begin by seasoning the lamb chops with salt and pepper. Make sure all pieces are evenly seasoned on both sides.
Step Two
In a deep bowl, combine the sampaloc paste, minced garlic, chopped red chili, grated ginger, brown sugar and soy sauce. Stir well until everything is thoroughly mixed.
Step Three
Place the seasoned lamb chops in the bowl, make sure all pieces are well coated with the sampaloc mixture. Let the lamb chops marinate in this mixture for at least an hour. For best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate overnight.
Step Four
When you’re ready to cook the lamb chops, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is heated, add the marinated lamb chops. Sear each side for about 4-5 minutes or until the chops are browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Do not overcrowd the skillet, you might need to do this in batches.
Step Five
While the lamb chops are cooking, prepare the sauce. In a small bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in 1/4 cup of water. Pour the dissolved cornstarch into the remaining marinade, stir well.
Step Six
Once all lamb chops are cooked, lower the heat to medium and pour the marinade with the dissolved cornstarch into the skillet. Stir well and let the sauce simmer until it thickens up.
Step Seven
Return the cooked lamb chops into the skillet, make sure all pieces are covered with the thickened sauce. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes. Make sure to turn the chops occasionally to ensure they are well-coated with the sauce.
Step Eight
Finally, remove from heat and serve the Sampaloc Spiced Lamb Chops hot. Enjoy your delicious meal!
