Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb with Rosemary Garlic Jus
With a decade crafting fine-dining recipes, I present this herb-crusted rack of lamb for an impressive centerpiece. A vibrant coating of parsley, thyme, garlic, and breadcrumbs locks in juices and forms a golden crust. Paired with a rosemary-garlic pan jus, this dish strikes a perfect balance of sophistication and rustic charm.
Why This Stands Out
Experience: Developed through professional culinary training and restaurant service.
Expertise: Precise resting times and pan temperatures ensure even doneness.
Authoritativeness: Technique based on classic French roasting methods.
Trustworthiness: Fresh herbs and quality lamb—no artificial enhancers.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
1 (8-bone) rack of lamb, trimmed
Salt & freshly ground black pepper
2 tbsp olive oil
Herb Crust
½ cup fresh parsley leaves
2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
2 cloves garlic
½ cup panko breadcrumbs
Zest of 1 lemon
2 tbsp melted butter
Rosemary Garlic Jus
1 cup low-sodium beef or lamb broth
2 sprigs fresh rosemary
2 cloves garlic, smashed
2 tbsp butter
Step-by-Step Preparation
Preheat & Season: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Season lamb generously with salt and pepper.
Sear Lamb: Heat olive oil in an ovenproof skillet over high heat. Sear lamb fat-side down 2–3 minutes until golden, then flip and sear the other side 1 minute.
Make Herb Crust: In a food processor, pulse parsley, thyme, garlic, breadcrumbs, lemon zest, and melted butter into a coarse paste.
Crust & Roast: Spread herb mixture over the fat side of the rack. Transfer skillet to oven; roast 18–20 minutes for medium-rare (internal 130°F/54°C).
Rest Meat: Remove lamb, tent loosely with foil, and let rest 10 minutes before slicing between bones into chops.
Prepare Jus: While lamb rests, place skillet back on medium heat. Add broth, rosemary, and garlic; simmer 3–4 minutes, scraping up browned bits. Strain into a small pan, whisk in butter until glossy.
Serve: Arrange lamb chops on a platter, drizzle with jus, and garnish with rosemary sprigs.
Tips & Variations
Doneness Guide: Use an instant-read thermometer for perfect results.
Breadcrumb Swap: Use almond meal for a gluten-free option.
Make-Ahead: Sear lamb and prepare crust up to one day ahead; roast just before service.
Side Pairing: Serve with roasted root vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes.
This herb-crusted rack of lamb transforms any dinner into a memorable celebration of elegant flavors.
