Lamb Chops Herbes De Provence with a Pinot Noir Sauce

This is a recipe that Lady H got from the editor of Bon Appétit magazine when out in Palm Springs probably about 1993; I think the Hansons went to the editor's house for dinner. I had to change it of course for Lord and Lady Hanson by removing the garlic, but here I have put it back in. We like to serve this dish with a Brunoise of vegetables and steamed Jersey Royal potatoes.

Lamb Chops Herbes De Provence with a Pinot Noir Sauce
Lamb Chops Herbes De Provence with a Pinot Noir Sauce

This is a recipe that Lady H got from the editor of Bon Appétit magazine when out in Palm Springs probably about 1993; I think the Hansons went to the editor's house for dinner. I had to change it of course for Lord and Lady Hanson by removing the garlic, but here I have put it back in. We like to serve this dish with a Brunoise of vegetables and steamed Jersey Royal potatoes.

  • Preparing Time: 1 hour
  • Total Time: 2 hours
  • Served Person: 10

Step-by-step

  • The Sauce: Heat the oil in heavy large pan over medium to high heat. Add the lamb and saute until a nice deep brown, turning occasionally, about 8 minutes. Using tongs, transfer the lamb to a bowl. Add the onions, carrot, garlic, and Herbes de Provence to the pan and saute until the vegetables are deep brown, about 8 minutes. Add wine and stock to the pan; return the lamb and any accumulated juices to the pan.
  • Bring to a boil, reduce the heat to medium-low, and simmer uncovered for 1 1/2 hours.
  • Strain into large bowl, pressing on the solids in strainer to release all the stock. Spoon off any fat from the surface of the stock and return the stock to the same large pan. Simmer until reduced to 1 and 1/3 cups, about 15 minutes.
  • Mix the butter and flour in small bowl to smooth paste and then whisk the paste into the stock. Simmer the sauce until slightly thickened and smooth, whisking constantly, about 1 minute longer.
  • Season with salt and pepper. (The sauce can be prepared 1 day ahead). Transfer to a small saucepan, cover, and chill. Re-warm before using.
  • For The lamb: Stir the fresh herbs and pepper in a medium bowl to blend, add 2 tablespoons of oil and mix until the herbs are sticking together.
  • Sprinkle the lamb racks with salt; firmly press 1/3 of the herb mixture over the rounded side of each rack to cover. (Can be prepared 1 day ahead).
  • Place on large rimmed baking sheet. Cover and chill.
  • Preheat the oven to 350F, 180°C, Gasmark 4
  • Heat 3 tablespoons of oil in large non-stick frying pan over a medium-high heat. Add 1 lamb rack to the frying pan, herbed side down.
  • Saute until browned, about 4 minutes. Turn the rack over and saute until browned, about 3 minutes. Place rack, herbed side up, on rimmed baking sheet. Repeat, fitting the remaining racks on the same sheet.
  • Roast the lamb until a meat thermometer inserted into the centre registers 135F for medium-rare, about 25 minutes. Let the lamb rest on the sheet 15 to 20 minutes.
  • Cut the lamb between the bones into individual chops, and arrange 3 chops on each plate, drizzle with the sauce and serve.

A Classic Reborn: My Take on Lamb Chops Herbes De Provence

This recipe isn't just a dish; it's a story. A culinary time capsule, if you will, transporting me back to a sun-drenched afternoon in Palm Springs. I remember the laughter, the clinking of glasses, and the tantalizing aroma that filled the air – all thanks to a recipe generously shared by a magazine editor. It's a memory I cherish, and one that I've carefully adapted and refined over the years to suit my own palate and the demands of my modern life. This isn't your grandmother's lamb chops; it's a vibrant, flavorful celebration of simple ingredients, elevated to new heights through careful technique and a touch of personal flair.

The original recipe, passed down from a culinary legend (at least in my book!), called for a certain restraint. No garlic, you see. A cardinal sin in my kitchen! However, over time, my version evolved. The garlic made its triumphant return, adding a welcome depth and complexity. My family adores the robust flavour, and I've found that a little garlic goes a long way in enhancing the already rich taste of the lamb. The Herbes de Provence, a fragrant blend of Mediterranean herbs, adds another layer of delightful complexity, complementing the lamb's natural richness. The Pinot Noir sauce is the crown jewel; its velvety texture and subtle acidity cut through the richness of the lamb beautifully. It’s a sauce worthy of the most elegant dinner party, yet simple enough for a weeknight meal.

This recipe isn't just about the food; it's about the journey. The journey of recreating a cherished memory, of adapting a classic to my own tastes, and of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones. The simple act of preparing this dish is a form of meditation for me, a quiet moment amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life. The aroma of rosemary and thyme fills my kitchen, creating a comforting atmosphere, while the rhythmic chopping of herbs grounds me in the present moment. And then, there's the sheer pleasure of watching the lamb brown beautifully in the pan. The sizzle, the aroma, it all combines to create an experience that transcends the mere preparation of a meal. It is the creation of a memory – a taste of the past, a celebration of the present, and a promise of many delicious meals to come.

The accompanying sides are as much a part of the experience as the lamb itself. I love serving this with a vibrant Brunoise of vegetables—a colorful medley of finely diced carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers—for a burst of freshness that complements the richness of the lamb. And what's a lamb chop dinner without some perfectly steamed Jersey Royal potatoes? Their creamy texture provides a welcome counterpoint to the robust flavors of the main course. It's the perfect harmony of textures and tastes, a testament to the art of balance in cooking.

This recipe isn't just a meal; it's a testament to the power of culinary traditions, the joy of personal adaptation, and the importance of sharing good food with those you love. So gather your ingredients, put on some relaxing music, and prepare yourself for a culinary adventure. The journey is as rewarding as the destination, and the memories you create while making this dish will be as flavorful and lasting as the lamb itself.

Beyond the Recipe: This recipe isn't limited to a formal setting. It's equally stunning as a romantic dinner for two, a celebratory family meal, or even a casual get-together with friends. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. You can adjust the spice levels to your liking; if you're feeling adventurous, add a pinch of chili flakes for a hint of heat. The Pinot Noir can be substituted with another dry red wine, like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon. The possibilities are endless, making this a recipe you can adapt and enjoy again and again. It’s a blank canvas for your culinary creativity.

So, the next time you're looking for a truly special meal, don't hesitate to try this Lamb Chops Herbes de Provence with a Pinot Noir Sauce. It's a recipe that will not only tantalize your taste buds but also nourish your soul. It's more than just food; it's a journey, a story, and a delicious memory waiting to be made.