Smoked lamb shoulder chops are a great way to enjoy this delicious cut of meat. The smoke flavor pairs perfectly with the rich flavor of the lamb. Lamb shoulder chops are also easy to cook, making them a great option for a quick meal.
This Smoked Lamb Shoulder Chops recipe is a great option for those who want to enjoy a delicious, flavourful cut of meat. The smoke flavor pairs perfectly with the rich flavor of the lamb, making it a great option for a delicious meal.
Additionally, lamb shoulder chops are easy to make and can be served with a variety of sides. Smoked lamb shoulder chops are also a good source of protein and nutrients!
What Are Lamb Shoulder Chops?
Lamb shoulder chops are a flavorful and relatively inexpensive cut of meat that comes from the shoulder of the lamb. The shoulder is a heavily exercised muscle group in the animal, which gives the meat a lot of flavor but also means it can be tough if not cooked properly.
Compared to lamb loin chops, which come from the area along the backbone, lamb shoulder chops are a bit tougher but also more flavorful. Lamb loin chops are a leaner cut of meat, with a mild flavor that pairs well with light seasoning and cooking techniques.
Lamb shoulder chops, on the other hand, can benefit from a bit more seasoning and a longer cooking time to break down the connective tissues and make the meat
How To Make Smoked Lamb Shoulder Chops
Step 1: Preheat Pellet Smoker
Before you start cooking, it’s important to preheat your pellet smoker to the correct temperature. This will ensure that your lamb shoulder chops cook evenly and reach the desired internal temperature. Set your pellet smoker to 225°F, which is the ideal temperature for smoking lamb shoulder chops.
Step 2: Combine Rub Ingredients
To add flavor to your lamb shoulder chops, you will need to make a seasoning rub. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, dried rosemary, dried thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix the ingredients well until they are evenly combined.
Step 3: Season Lamb Chops
Before applying the seasoning rub, pat the lamb shoulder chops dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This will help the seasoning rub stick to the meat better. Then, apply the seasoning rub all over the lamb shoulder chops, making sure to coat them evenly on all sides.
Step 4: Place Lamb Chops On Grill Grate Over Water Pan
To prevent the lamb shoulder chops from drying out during the smoking process, place a pan of water on the grill grates of the pellet smoker. This will create a moist environment that will keep the lamb chops juicy and tender.
Arrange the seasoned lamb chops on the grates above the pan of water, making sure to leave enough space between them for air to circulate.
Step 5: Smoke Lamb Chops
Close the lid of the pellet smoker and let the lamb shoulder chops smoke for about 60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 115°F. This will give the lamb chops a nice smoky flavor and aroma. You can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the lamb shoulder chops.
When the lamb shoulder chops near the target temperature, preheat a cast-iron skillet on high heat. This will be used later to sear the lamb chops and give them a crispy exterior.
Step 6: Sear Lamb Chops
Once the lamb shoulder chops reach an internal temperature of 115°F, remove them from the pellet smoker. Sear the lamb chops for 2-3 minutes per side, until a brown crust forms and the internal temperature reaches 140°F.
Step 7: Rest
Once the lamb chops reach an internal temperature of 140°F, remove them from the skillet and let them rest for 5-10 minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute evenly throughout the meat, making it more tender and juicy.
Step 8: Serve & Enjoy
Finally, serve the smoked and seared lamb shoulder chops hot and enjoy! You can garnish with some fresh herbs or lemon wedges for added flavor. These lamb chops are perfect for a backyard BBQ or a special occasion meal.
Tips For Making Smoked Lamb Shoulder Chops
Here are a few tips to help make the best-smoked lamb shoulder chops.
Seasoning Mixture
While the seasoning rub listed in the recipe is delicious, feel free to customize it to your liking. Add more or less of any ingredient, or substitute different herbs or spices to create your own unique flavor profile. Experimenting with different seasonings is part of the great fun for grilled or smoked lamb!
Don’t Over-Smoke
While you want the lamb to have a smoky flavor, it’s easy to overdo it. Remember to use a mild wood pellet like oak, cherry, or apple, and don’t let the chops smoke for too long. An hour of smoking should be enough to infuse the meat with flavor without overwhelming it.
The Sear
Searing the lamb chops on a hot cast-iron skillet gives them a nice crust and helps lock in the juices. Make sure to preheat the skillet for a few minutes before adding the lamb, and don’t overcrowd the pan. Searing only a few chops at a time will help them cook evenly and develop a nice crust.
Use a Meat Thermometer
To make sure the lamb chops are cooked to perfection, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat, being careful not to touch the bone. When the temperature reaches 140°F, the lamb is done and ready to be removed from the skillet.
Resting Time
After the lamb has finished smoking, remove it from the pellet smoker and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures that the meat stays moist and tender. Don’t skip this step, as it can make a big difference in the final result.
The Best Beer To Pair With Smoked Lamb
Nothing pairs better with a delicious plate of smoked and seared lamb shoulder chops than an ice-cold beer. But with so many different beer styles to choose from, it can be overwhelming to know which one will complement the flavors of the lamb best. That’s why we’ve put together this list of the top 3 types of beer that pair well with this recipe.
India Pale Ale (IPA)
The hoppy bitterness of an IPA contrasts nicely with the rich, savory flavors of the lamb. The strong flavors of the lamb can stand up to the boldness of an IPA, making it a perfect pairing for those who love a bit of a hoppy bite in their beer.
Brown Ale
A malty, nutty brown ale is a great pairing for the lamb chops. The sweetness of the beer complements the smokiness of the lamb, and the nutty notes of the ale bring out the richness of the meat.
Belgian Dubbel
A Belgian Dubbel is a great option for those who prefer a more complex, spicy beer. The fruity notes in the beer work well with the lamb, while the maltiness helps to balance out the smokiness of the meat. Plus, the spicy notes in the beer can help cut through any fatty or oily flavors in the lamb.
Related Recipes
- Smoked Lamb Chops Recipe
- Lamb Seasoning Recipe
- Smoked Lamb Shoulder Recipe
- Smoked Rack Of Lamb
- Smoked Leg of Lamb
Smoked Lamb Shoulder Chops Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 lamb shoulder chops
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp dried fresh rosemary
- 1 tbsp dried thyme
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your pellet smoker to 225°F.
- In a small bowl, combine olive oil, dried rosemary, dried thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to make a seasoning rub.
- Pat the lamb shoulder chops dry with a paper towel and apply the seasoning rub all over the meat.
- Place a pan of water on the grill grates of the pellet smoker and arrange the lamb chops on the grates above the pan of water.
- Close the lid of the pellet smoker and let the lamb chops smoke for about 60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 115°F.
- Preheat a cast-iron skillet on high heat.
- Sear the lamb chops in the skillet for 2-3 minutes per side, until a brown crust forms and the internal temperature is 140°F.
- Once the lamb chops reach the desired temperature, remove them from the skillet and let them rest for 5-10 minutes.
- Serve the smoked and seared lamb shoulder chops hot and enjoy!
Smoked Lamb Shoulder Chops FAQs
How long does it take to smoke lamb shoulder chops?
It will take about 60-90 minutes to smoke lamb shoulder chops. It’s best to use a meat thermometer to ensure you’re cooking your lamb shoulder chops to the desired temperature.
What internal temperature should the lamb reach?
The lamb should reach an internal temperature of 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
Can I make Smoked Lamb Shoulder Chops without a smoker?
Yes, you can make smoked lamb chops without a smoker. You will need to create a two-zone fire on your gas or charcoal grill.
What should I serve with Smoked Lamb Shoulder Chops?
Smoked lamb shoulder chops are delicious when served with rice and vegetables. You can also pair them with a salad or roasted potatoes.
How do I store Smoked Lamb Shoulder Chops?
Smoked Lamb Shoulder Chops will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.