2000s Recipes + Menus

Grilled Lamb Chops with Curried Couscous and Zucchini Raita

Serves6
  • Active time:10 min
  • Start to finish:25 min
May 2006
Though not quite as tender, lamb shoulder chops have deeper flavor than rib chops and won’t break the bank.
  • 3/4 teaspoon curry powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon turmeric (optional)
  • 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 1/2 cups water
  • 1 1/4 teaspoons salt
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 1/4 cups couscous (8 oz)
  • 1 1/4 lb (1/2-inch-thick) lamb shoulder blade chops
  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 medium zucchini (1/2 lb), coarsely grated (about 1 cup)
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried mint, crumbled
  • Special equipment:

    a well-seasoned large (2-burner) ridged grill pan
  • Heat lightly oiled grill pan over moderately high heat until hot but not smoking.
  • Meanwhile, toast curry, turmeric (if using), cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper in a small heavy saucepan over moderate heat, stirring constantly, until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add water, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and butter and bring to a boil. Place couscous in a heatproof bowl and pour in boiling water mixture, then quickly cover with a plate or plastic wrap and let stand 5 minutes.
  • While couscous stands, pat chops dry and sprinkle on both sides with 1/4 teaspoon salt and remaining 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Grill chops, turning over once, about 6 minutes total for medium-rare. Transfer to a serving plate.
  • For raita, stir together yogurt, zucchini, mint, and remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt.
  • Fluff couscous with a fork and serve with lamb and raita.
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