Jamie Oliver Lamb Cutlets Recipe [GUIDE]

Jamie Oliver’s lamb cutlets are a simple, yet elegant dish that showcases the beauty of fresh ingredients. Tender, juicy lamb chops are seasoned with herbs and spices, then pan-fried or grilled to perfection. The dish is known for its rich, aromatic flavors, thanks to a combination of garlic, rosemary and other fragrant herbs. The best part? It’s all about bringing out the natural flavors of the lamb without overwhelming it. Jamie’s approach often combines rustic, homey techniques with a touch of sophistication, making it perfect for both a casual dinner or a special occasion.

Jamie Oliver Lamb Cutlets Recipe

Ingredients Needed

For Jamie Oliver’s lamb cutlets, you don’t need a ton of ingredients, just a handful of fresh, high-quality ones. Here’s what you’ll typically need:

1. Lamb Cutlets – The star of the dish! Choose fresh, well-trimmed lamb cutlets, preferably from a good butcher.
2. Olive Oil – A good quality olive oil will help sear the lamb and provide a rich base for the flavor.
3. Garlic – Fresh garlic is key. It brings a savory depth to the cutlets.
4. Rosemary – Fresh rosemary adds a beautiful, piney fragrance that pairs perfectly with lamb.
5. Lemon – Lemon zest or juice balances the richness of the lamb, giving it a little citrusy zing.
6. Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning, bringing out the natural flavors.
7. Optional: You can also add some chili flakes if you like a touch of heat or a bit of honey for sweetness, depending on the recipe twist.

Equipment Needed

The equipment for making Jamie Oliver’s lamb cutlets is fairly straightforward. You don’t need anything too fancy:

1. Frying Pan or Grill Pan. A heavy skillet works wonders to get a good sear on the cutlets. If you’re grilling, you can use a grill pan or an outdoor grill.
2. Tongs – To flip the cutlets without piercing the meat and letting the juices escape.
3. Knife and Chopping Board. For chopping the garlic and rosemary.
4. Serving Plate – A nice, wide plate to serve the juicy lamb once it’s cooked.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Lamb Cutlets

Making Jamie Oliver’s lamb cutlets is actually pretty straightforward but the key is in the timing and flavor balance.

1. Prep The Lamb

   Start by patting the lamb cutlets dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a crispy, golden crust when cooking. Season them generously with salt and pepper and drizzle with olive oil. Set them aside while you prepare the flavorings.

2. Prepare The Aromatics

   Finely chop a couple of cloves of garlic and a sprig or two of rosemary. You can also zest the lemon if you’re using it or just slice it for serving.

3. Sear The Lamb

   Heat up a pan over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the cutlets. Sear each side for 2-3 minutes to get a nice golden crust. The goal is a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy. If you prefer your lamb more well-done, you can cook it a bit longer.

4. Add The Aromatics

   After the lamb cutlets are seared, add the chopped garlic and rosemary to the pan. These aromatics will infuse the oil, making everything smell incredible. You can toss in the lemon zest or squeeze in some lemon juice at this point.

5. Finishing Touches

   Once the lamb is cooked to your liking, remove it from the pan. Let it rest for a minute or two. This helps the juices redistribute, making the lamb even juicier. If you’re feeling fancy, drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil on top and maybe a dash of lemon juice.

6. Serve

   Serve the lamb on a platter, ideally with some fresh greens or a light salad on the side. Jamie often suggests serving it with a side of potatoes or couscous.

What I Learnt

Making Jamie Oliver’s lamb cutlets taught me a lot about balancing simplicity and flavor. The dish isn’t complicated but every little step. like letting the lamb rest or adding fresh rosemary. makes a huge difference. The lamb cutlets themselves are so versatile. They can be the star of a dinner party or a quick weeknight meal. I also realized how important quality ingredients are. The lamb, fresh herbs and garlic are what make the dish really shine. When you keep the seasoning simple, you let the meat do the talking.

Recipe Tweaks For Jamie Oliver’s Lamb Cutlets

Jamie Oliver’s lamb cutlets are already pretty amazing but there are always ways to personalize and elevate them to suit your taste. Here are a few ideas:

1. Herb Crust Variation: The classic rosemary and garlic crust is delicious but you could mix things up with different herbs. Try adding a touch of fresh mint for a Mediterranean twist or even some thyme and parsley. A sprinkle of lemon zest in the crust could also brighten up the flavors.
2. Spicy Kick: If you like heat, a bit of crushed red chili flakes or even harissa paste mixed into the rub can give the cutlets an exciting zing. You can also marinate them in a yogurt-based marinade with chili, cumin and coriander to infuse the lamb with extra flavor.
3. Cooking Method: Jamie tends to pan-sear and finish in the oven but if you want a smokier flavor, you could cook the lamb cutlets on the grill. That charred taste adds another dimension to the cutlets. Alternatively, for a more decadent touch, sear them in a cast-iron skillet, then add a knob of butter, a few garlic cloves and some herbs for basting as they finish cooking.
4. Sweet Notes: For a bit of sweetness to balance the savory, try serving the cutlets with a fruit chutney or glaze. A balsamic reduction or a pomegranate molasses drizzle works wonders or even a side of roasted figs.
5. Side Twist: If you’re feeling adventurous, add a little zest to your sides too. Instead of regular mashed potatoes, make a creamy parsnip and potato mash or try roasted sweet potatoes with a touch of cinnamon and cumin.

Storage Tips For Leftovers

If you end up with leftover lamb cutlets (unlikely but hey, it happens!), here are some tips to store and reheat them without losing too much flavor or texture:

1. Cool Down: Let the lamb cutlets cool completely at room temperature before storing them. You don’t want to trap any steam in the container which can make the meat soggy.
2. Wrap Right: To maintain moisture, wrap the cutlets tightly in foil or wax paper, then store them in an airtight container. You could also use a resealable plastic bag with the air pressed out to avoid freezer burn or drying out.
3. Refrigeration: In the fridge, lamb cutlets will last about 2-3 days. If you’re not planning to eat them within that timeframe, freeze them for longer storage. In the freezer, they can last up to 2-3 months. Just be sure to label the container with the date!
4. Reheating: When it comes time to eat them again, don’t microwave them if you want to preserve the texture. Instead, heat them up in a skillet on medium heat, adding a little oil or butter to keep them moist. You can also warm them gently in the oven at around 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Be careful not to overdo it or you might dry them out.
5. Repurposing Leftovers: Leftover lamb can easily be repurposed into other dishes. Toss it into a salad, shred it for wraps or tacos or turn it into a lamb stew with some broth and veggies.

What To Eat With Jamie Oliver’s Lamb Cutlets?

Lamb cutlets are flavorful enough to stand on their own but pairing them with the right sides can elevate the meal to a whole new level. Here are some great options:

1. Minted Peas: A classic pairing with lamb, minted peas add a fresh, sweet touch that balances the richness of the meat. You can simply cook peas with a bit of butter and fresh mint or make a more complex version with a bit of lemon zest and a sprinkle of crumbled feta.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Think root veggies like carrots, parsnips and sweet potatoes. Roasting them with a bit of olive oil, garlic and thyme makes them caramelized and sweet. perfect with lamb.
3. Couscous or Quinoa: A light grain side can help to absorb the juices from the lamb and offer a bit of contrast in texture. Couscous is fluffy and quick while quinoa adds a nice nuttiness.
4. Greek Salad: If you want something a little lighter, a Greek salad made with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives and feta adds a fresh, tangy vibe to the meal. You could even throw in some red onion and Kalamata olives for an extra hit of Mediterranean flavor.
5. Potatoes, Any Style: You can never go wrong with potatoes when it comes to lamb. The earthy flavors will complement the lamb perfectly.
6. Sauces and Dips: Lamb pairs beautifully with a variety of sauces. A simple yogurt-based sauce, like tzatziki, works wonders. You could also make a rich mint sauce or a tangy chimichurri for a bit of zest. For something creamy, a smooth garlic aioli would add a silky finish to the dish.

FAQs

What Ingredients Do I Need For Jamie Oliver’s Lamb Cutlets?

You’ll need lamb cutlets, fresh rosemary, garlic, olive oil, lemon, salt, and pepper. Plus, a bit of butter for finishing.

How Do I Cook Lamb Cutlets Like Jamie Oliver?

Season the lamb with rosemary, garlic, salt, and pepper. Sear the cutlets in hot olive oil for 2-3 minutes on each side. Finish with a squeeze of lemon and a dollop of butter.

Can I Use A Different Herb For Jamie Oliver’s Lamb Cutlets Recipe?

Yes, you can use thyme, oregano, or even mint if you prefer a different flavor.