Grilled Lamb Chops with Tanzanian Spice Rub

Ingredients

While the original Greek dish, Païdakia, is traditionally seasoned with Mediterranean herbs and spices, this Tanzanian adaptation introduces a unique blend of spices inspired by the flavors of East Africa. The Greek lamb chops are transformed into a vibrant and aromatic dish with the addition of Tanzanian spices like cinnamon, cloves, cumin, and coriander. The result is a fusion of flavors that takes the taste experience to a whole new level. We alse have the original recipe for Païdakia, so you can check it out.

• 8 lamb chops (about 1 kg / 2.2 lbs) 8 lamb chops (about 1 kg / 2.2 lbs)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 400 kcal / 1674 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 9g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 2g, 0g
• Protein: 40g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. 2.
   In a small bowl, combine the ground cinnamon, cloves, cumin, coriander, salt, and black pepper to create the Tanzanian spice rub.
3. 3.
   Rub the spice mixture evenly onto both sides of the lamb chops.
4. 4.
   Drizzle the vegetable oil over the lamb chops and gently massage it into the meat.
5. 5.
   Place the lamb chops on the preheated grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or adjust the cooking time according to your desired level of doneness.
6. 6.
   Remove the lamb chops from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Lamb chops — For the best results, choose lamb chops that are of high quality and have a good amount of marbling. This will ensure a tender and juicy final dish.

Tips & Tricks

• If you prefer a spicier flavor, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the spice rub.
• Allow the lamb chops to come to room temperature before grilling to ensure even cooking.
• For a smokier flavor, you can use a charcoal grill instead of a gas grill.
• Serve the grilled lamb chops with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a burst of acidity that complements the spices.
• If you don't have a grill, you can also cook the lamb chops on a stovetop grill pan or broil them in the oven.

Serving advice

Serve the grilled Tanzanian spiced lamb chops with a side of fragrant Tanzanian pilau rice and a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves for an added touch of freshness.

Presentation advice

Arrange the grilled lamb chops on a platter, garnished with sprigs of fresh herbs such as mint or parsley. Serve with the side dishes on separate plates or bowls to create an enticing and colorful spread.