Ingredients
Method
Make the Glaze
- Combine pomegranate molasses, honey, minced garlic, lemon juice, cumin, red pepper flakes, and salt in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir and simmer for 3-4 minutes until the glaze thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and set aside.
Prepare and Sear the Lamb
- Season both sides of the lamb chops with kosher salt and black pepper. Let them rest at room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking.
- Heat a 12-inch cast-iron skillet over high heat for 2 minutes until smoking hot. Add olive oil, rosemary sprig, and crushed garlic cloves.
- Add the lamb chops in a single layer without crowding. Sear for 3-4 minutes on the first side without moving them, until a deep brown crust forms.
- Flip the chops and sear the second side for 2-3 minutes until internal temperature reads 55-57 C / 130-135 F for medium-rare. Work in batches if needed.
- Transfer the chops to a plate and rest for 5 minutes. Discard the rosemary and garlic from the pan.
Glaze and Finish
- Reduce the skillet heat to medium. Pour half the glaze into the hot pan and let it bubble for 20 seconds, scraping up any browned bits.
- Return the rested lamb chops to the pan. Brush the tops with the remaining glaze and cook for 30-45 seconds per side until the glaze sets and the edges caramelize slightly.
- Transfer to a serving platter. Scatter pomegranate arils and fresh mint over the top, finish with a pinch of flaky sea salt, and serve immediately.
Notes
If your pomegranate molasses is particularly thick, thin it with 1 tbsp water before reducing so the glaze doesn't seize. Chops cut thinner than 3/4 inch will overcook before the crust develops, so ask your butcher for a full inch.
