Guide to Cuts of Lamb: Lamb Chops vs Rack of Lamb

For home cooks looking to elevate their kitchen game, learning how to prepare lamb opens the door to a wide world of gastronomic delights. Beloved for its succulently tender meat and reliably rich flavor, lamb offers a plethora of cuts that cater to a variety of cooking methods, and is suitable for any occasion.

From the juicy shoulder chop to the elegant rack of lamb, each cut brings its unique characteristics to the table, allowing for endless culinary possibilities. Options range from succulent shoulder chops to elegant racks of lamb, to the ever-beloved leg of lamb. But this variety also offers a challenge in and of itself. At the grocery store, navigating through the wide selection of lamb cuts can be daunting.

Are lamb chops best-prepared sous vide or braised? Is a rack of lamb best prepared grilled or roasted? What ‘is’ a Frenched lamb chop? Why are there so many types of lamb chops, and are they all ‘really’ that different? What’s a riblet, and why is it sometimes called a lamb lollipop? What does one ‘do’ with a rack of lamb anyway?

These and other questions are what we’re setting out to answer here today.

So join us as we explore these prime cuts of lamb, from the tenderloin chops to the flavorful leg of lamb. Learn about the distinct qualities of each cut, including their texture, flavor profile, and ideal cooking methods. With the insights we provide you with today, you'll be able to select the best cuts to suit your cooking style and preferences.

Now, without further delay, let’s get to it.

Lamb Chops – An Overview

It goes without saying that lamb chops are one of the most beloved and iconic cuts of meat. Full stop. They are beloved for their tender texture, rich flavor profile, and versatility. As part of the primal cuts of lamb, these succulent chops offer a variety of options for home cooks to explore and savor.

However, lamb chops do cover a wide range of different cuts of lamb, so let’s break down a few those here today.

1. Lamb Rib Chops. One of the most popular types of lamb chops is the lamb rib chop, also known as riblets or lamb lollipops – thanks to their ‘meat on a stick’ appearance. These chops are cut from the ribs of the lamb, and a delicate balance of lean meat and flavorful fat. The frenched cut, where the bone is exposed and trimmed of excess fat and meat, enhances the presentation of the chop, making it ideal for elegant dinner presentations.
2. Lamb Loin Chops. Another favorite among lamb aficionados, loin chops are sourced from – surprise! – the loin of the lamb. These chops are probably best known for their tenderness and juicy meat. This makes them ideal for grilling, pan-searing, or roasting. With their succulent texture and robust flavor, loin chops are a favorite choice for those seeking a luxurious dining experience.
3. Shoulder Chops. Lamb shoulder chops, also referred to as blade chops or arm chops offer a slightly different experience compared to rib and loin chops. Cut from the shoulder area of the lamb, these chops feature slightly larger cuts of meat and may contain more connective tissue. While they may require slightly longer cooking times to tenderize, shoulder chops reward patient chefs with rich, flavorful meat that pairs well with braising or slow cooking methods.
4. Breast Chops. Lamb breast chops, also known as lamb breast ribs or lamb breastplates, are an economical cut taken from the belly area of the lamb. These chops consist of layers of meat interspersed with ribs and fat. Lamb breast chops are known for their rich, fatty flavor and – when cooked properly – their tenderness. Due to their higher fat content, lamb breast chops benefit from slower cooking methods, which allow their copious fat and connective tissue to break down, tenderizing the meat, and enhancing its flavor. Otherwise, these are generally a tougher cut of lamb.

Overall, lamb chops present a diverse array of options for culinary exploration, from elegant rib chops to hearty shoulder chops. Whether grilled, roasted, or braised, these delectable cuts of meat are sure to delight the palates of discerning food enthusiasts and home cooks alike.

Lamb Chops – Ideal Cooking Methods

Achieving perfectly cooked lamb chops is about choosing the right method, a little patience, and attention to detail. Nevertheless, it becomes a sublimely simple process once you’ve got it mastered.

Here are the cooking methods that lamb chops absolutely love, and all of these directions assume the rack of lamb is being prepared at room temperature:

1. Grilling: A delicious and easy option. Grilling lamb chops over an open flame imparts a delicious smoky flavor while creating a beautifully caramelized crust. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Season the chops with your favorite herbs and spices, then grill for about 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare doneness. Let the chops rest for a few minutes, to allow the juices to redistribute, and serve. Couldn’t be simpler.
2. Pan-Searing: A quick and easy method, and one that’s easy to get creative with. Heat a cast-iron skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil. Once the pan is hot, add the seasoned chops and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Reduce the heat to medium-low and continue cooking until the chops reach the desired level of doneness. Along the way, get creative with red wine sauces, fresh herbs, marinades, gravies, and pan sauces. This method can be as simple or as complex as you want it to be.
3. Roasting: Roasting lamb chops in the oven is a great way to achieve tender and juicy meat with minimal effort. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the seasoned chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a wire rack. Roast for about 15-20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chops, until they reach an internal temperature of 145° degrees f (63°C) for medium-rare. Let the chops rest for a few minutes before serving.
4. Braising: Braising is a slow-cooking method that yields tender and flavorful lamb chops cooked with a rich sauce. Start by searing the seasoned chops in a hot skillet until golden brown. Transfer the chops to a Dutch oven or deep baking dish and add in your favorite aromatics, such as onions, garlic, and herbs. Pour in enough liquid, such as broth or wine, to partially submerge the chops. Cover and cook in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 1-2 hours until the meat is fork-tender.
5. Sous Vide: Sous vide cooking involves vacuum-sealing the seasoned chops and cooking them in a water bath at a precise temperature for an extended period. This method ensures evenly cooked lamb chops with a perfect edge-to-edge doneness. Simply season the chops, vacuum-seal them in a bag, and cook in a sous vide water bath at 135°F (57°C) for 2-4 hours. Finish by searing the chops in a hot skillet for a crispy exterior.

Rack of Lamb – Overview

The rack of lamb stands out as a premium cut of meat, celebrated for its exquisite flavor and impressive presentation on the plate. This culinary gem is perfect for special occasions, such as holidays or refined dinner parties, where it can elevate the meal with its elegant appearance and delicious taste.

So, what exactly is a rack of lamb? Simply put, it’s essentially a row of rib bones attached to a generous layer of tender meat, often referred to as the "lamb rib primal cut." Unlike individual lamb chops, which are cut from various sections of the lamb, the rack of lamb is a cohesive, eye-catching piece that commands attention on any dinner table. Think of it as a lamb crown roast.

In terms of flavor, a rack of lamb boasts a rich, savory taste with a hint of natural sweetness that's characteristic of high-quality lamb meat. Its tender texture is positively ‘melt in your mouth,’ offering a luxurious dining experience that's hard to match. This versatility extends to the kitchen, where chefs can prepare a rack of lamb in a variety of ways to suit the occasion.

Whether roasted to perfection with a savory herb crust, grilled over an open flame for a smoky char, or delicately seared in a pan for a crispy exterior, a rack of lamb adapts beautifully to various cooking methods – which we’ll touch on below.

In summary, rack of lamb represents the epitome of culinary excellence, offering a perfect balance of flavor, tenderness, and versatility. Whether you're a seasoned chef or an adventurous home cook, mastering the art of cooking rack of lamb is sure to elevate your culinary repertoire and delight your taste buds with every bite.

Rack of Lamb – Ideal Cooking Methods

There’s no getting around that cooking a rack of lamb is a bit more ‘involved’ than prepping chops. Cooking a rack of lamb to perfection will no doubt require a bit more attention to detail, the right cooking method, patience, and some practice. But the payout is, I promise, more than worth it. Every home chef should have at least one really good rack of lamb recipe in their repertoire.

Now, here some of the best methods, in my opinion, for cooking a rack of lamb:

1. Roasting: There’s no denying that roasting is perhaps the most classic and popular method for cooking a rack of lamb. Preheat your oven to a high temperature, around 400°F (200°C) to 450°F (230°C). Season the rack of lamb with herbs, garlic, salt, and pepper, or your favorite seasoning blend. Place the rack fat-side up on a roasting pan or baking sheet and roast in the oven until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Let it rest before slicing and serving. The creativity in this method generally comes down to the rub and herbs you crust the meat with.
2. Grilling: A bit more involved than roasting, no doubt, but grilling is a sure way to add a bit of char and smoky goodness to the end result. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Season the rack with your preferred spices and herbs. Place the rack on the grill and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes per side for medium-rare, turning occasionally for even cooking. I recommend using a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
3. Searing and Finishing in the Oven: This method involves searing the rack of lamb on the stovetop to develop a caramelized crust, typically using a cast iron griddle or cast iron pan, and then finishing the rack of lamb in the oven to ensure even cooking. To do this, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a little oil. Sear the lamb rack on all sides until golden brown, then transfer it to a preheated oven to finish cooking to your desired level of doneness.
4. Herb Crusting: Coating the rack of lamb with an herb crust before cooking adds an extra layer of flavor and texture. Prepare a mixture of breadcrumbs, fresh herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, and parsley), fresh minced garlic, salt, pepper, and olive oil. Press the herb crust onto the rack of lamb before roasting or grilling for a deliciously fragrant and crispy coating. This is my preferred seasoning method.

Lamb Chops vs Rack of Lamb – Comparison

• Flavor:
  • Lamb Chops: Lamb chops have a robust flavor with a slightly gamey taste, especially if they are from the rib or loin area. The meat is rich and savory, with a good balance of fat.
  • Rack of Lamb: Rack of lamb offers a more concentrated and tender flavor compared to individual lamb chops. The meat is succulent and juicy, with a milder taste compared to chops due to its bone-in presentation.
• Texture:
  • Lamb Chops: Lamb chops are tender and succulent, especially when cooked to medium-rare or medium doneness. The meat has a slightly chewy texture due to the presence of connective tissue and fat.
  • Rack of Lamb: Rack of lamb is incredibly tender and has a buttery texture. The meat easily melts in your mouth, offering a luxurious dining experience.
• Cooking Methods:
  • Lamb Chops: Lamb chops are versatile and can be cooked using various methods such as grilling, roasting, broiling, or pan-searing. They cook relatively quickly and are ideal for weeknight meals.
  • Rack of Lamb: Rack of lamb is often roasted or grilled whole, making it a centerpiece dish for special occasions.
• Presentation:
  • Lamb Chops: Lamb chops are served individually, making them perfect for plated presentations. They can be arranged neatly on a plate with accompanying sides, sauces, or garnishes.
  • Rack of Lamb: Rack of lamb offers an impressive visual appeal, especially when presented whole and carved at the table. It makes for an elegant centerpiece for dinner parties or holiday feasts.
• Cost:
  • Lamb Chops: Lamb chops are typically more affordable compared to rack of lamb since they are individual portions cut from larger primal cuts. They are suitable for everyday cooking without breaking the bank.
  • Rack of Lamb: Rack of lamb is considered a premium cut and is usually more expensive than lamb chops. However, its exquisite taste and presentation make it worth the splurge for special occasions.

Pros and Cons:

• Lamb Chops:
  • Pros: Quick cooking time, individual portions, versatile for various recipes and cuisines.
  • Cons: May vary in tenderness depending on the cut, smaller meat-to-bone ratio compared to rack of lamb.
• Rack of Lamb:
  • Pros: Exceptionally tender and flavorful, impressive presentation, ideal for special occasions.
  • Cons: Higher cost, requires more precise cooking techniques to ensure even doneness, less versatile in terms of portioning.

In summary, lamb chops are convenient for everyday meals and offer versatility in preparation, while rack of lamb elevates the dining experience with its tenderness, presentation, and luxurious taste, making it perfect for special gatherings and celebrations.

And that’s our guide to Lamb Chops vs Rack of Lamb. If you have any questions or suggestions, let us know in the comments below, we always love hearing from you.

Happy Cooking!