braised lamb chops

How to Cook Braised Lamb Chops: A Complete Guide

Braised lamb chops, a beloved dish in Chinese cuisine, are prized for their tender meat and rich, savory flavor. Here’s a step-by-step guide to mastering this recipe.

Ingredients:

1.5 kg lamb chops, 3 tbsp soy sauce, 2 tbsp dark soy sauce, 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine, 5 slices of ginger, 3 garlic cloves, 1 cinnamon stick, 2 star anise, 1 tbsp sugar, and enough oil for searing.

Steps:

1. Prepare the Lamb: Rinse chops and pat dry. Marinate in 1 tbsp soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and ginger for 20 minutes.

2. Sear the Meat: Heat oil in a pot over medium-high heat. Brown chops on both sides until golden, then set aside.

3. Create the Sauce: In the same pot, sauté garlic, cinnamon, and star anise until fragrant. Add sugar, stirring until caramelized.

4. Braise: Return chops to the pot. Pour in enough water to cover them, along with remaining soy sauces. Bring to a boil, then simmer on low heat for 1.5–2 hours, until tender.

5. Reduce Sauce: Increase heat to thicken the sauce, coating the chops evenly. Garnish with scallions before serving.

Tips: For extra flavor, add a carrot or potato during braising. Adjust soy sauce to taste, and ensure low heat for melt-in-your-mouth texture. Enjoy this hearty dish with steamed rice!