SKILLET-ROASTED LAMB CHOPS

Skillet-Roasted Lamb Chops image

Provided by Scott Conant

Time 8h15m

Yield 4 to 6 servings

Number Of Ingredients 7

6 cloves garlic, crushed
1 sprig fresh rosemary
1 sprig fresh thyme
Pinch crushed red pepper
1/2 cup plus 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
Two 8-bone lamb racks (1 to 1 1/2 pounds each), frenched
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

Steps:

In a small bowl, combine the garlic, rosemary, thyme, crushed red pepper and 1/2 cup of the olive oil. Put the lamb racks on a rimmed baking sheet or in a baking dish and pour the marinade over the racks. Cover and refrigerate, turning occasionally, for at least 6 hours and up to 24 hours.
Let the lamb stand at room temperature for 1 hour.
Preheat the oven to 275 degrees F.
Place a large cast-iron pan over medium-high heat and add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil. Brush the excess marinade off the lamb (reserve the marinade) and season with salt and pepper. Brown the lamb for 3 to 4 minutes, then remove to a plate. Add the reserved marinade to the pan and cook for 2 minutes. Let cool slightly.
Interlock the lamb bones from one rack with the other and return the racks to the pan meat-side down with the bones upright. Transfer to the oven and cook, basting with the pan juices about every 5 minutes, until an instant-read thermometer reads 135 degrees F (or to preferred doneness), 30 to 40 minutes. Rest the lamb for 20 minutes before carving.