Adobo Crusted Lamb Loin Chops

Serving Size: Makes 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes, stand time 1 hour
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes

Ingredients

1 tablespoon fennel seed
1 tablespoon cumin seed
2 teaspoons coriander seed
1/2 teaspoon rosemary
2 teaspoons cracked pepper
1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
2 teaspoon minced garlic
2 teaspoons oregano
1/2 teaspoon thyme
2 teaspoons lime zest
8 lamb loin chops, 1-inch thick
4 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

In a dry skillet toast fennel, cumin, coriander and pepper for a few minutes until aromatic; let cool and grind coarsely in a spice grinder or blender. Stir in salt, garlic, oregano and lime zest. Rub both sides of each lamb chop with about a tablespoon of the spice mixture; cover and let stand for at least 1 hour.

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Heat two oven-proof large skillets over medium-high heat; add 2 tablespoons of oil to each pan and bring just to the smoking point. Place four lamb chops in each hot pan and sear for 5 minutes; turn lamb to sear the second side for an additional 2 minutes. Place the pans in the oven and continue to cook the chops for 5 to 10 minutes or until lamb is cooked to your liking.