Lamb Cutlets Provencale - A posh way to dine

Lamb cutlets are a popular dish that consists of individual portions of lamb meat, typically taken from the rib section, that are cooked and served individually. While I couldn't find an exact origin for lamb cutlets as a specific dish, lamb has been consumed as a food source for thousands of years, and various preparations of lamb have been enjoyed in different cultures throughout history.

In many European cuisines, lamb has been a staple meat, and different cuts of lamb, including cutlets, have been featured in traditional recipes. Lamb cutlets became particularly popular in British and French cuisine.

In British cuisine, lamb cutlets have been enjoyed for centuries. The tradition of serving lamb cutlets can be traced back to the English Victorian era, where they were often served as part of an elegant and formal meal. The cutlets were typically seasoned with herbs, grilled or pan-fried until tender, and served with a sauce or accompanying vegetables.

In French cuisine, lamb cutlets are known as "côtelettes d'agneau" and have been appreciated as a classic dish. The French approach often involves marinating the lamb in herbs and garlic before grilling or sautéing. The cutlets are typically cooked to medium-rare or medium, preserving their tenderness and flavor. Lamb cutlets have also found their way into other culinary traditions around the world. For example, Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines feature lamb cutlets as well. In these regions, lamb is often marinated with spices like cumin, coriander, and paprika, and then grilled or roasted to perfection.

Today, lamb cutlets continue to be a popular and versatile dish enjoyed in various cultures. They can be served with a variety of accompaniments such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad, depending on regional and personal preferences. While there isn't a specific documented history solely dedicated to lamb cutlets, their presence in different culinary traditions speaks to the enduring appeal of this delicious lamb dish.

Recipe

• To prepare this dish, you will need the following ingredients:

• 8 lamb cutlets

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 tablespoons oliveoil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 large tomato, diced

• 1/2 cup whitewine

• 1/4 cup chicken broth

• 1/4 cup pitted olives, chopped

• 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and drained

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil

Steps

• Preheat your oven to 350°F(180°C).

• Season the lamb cutlets with salt and pepper on both sides.

• Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.

•  Add the lamb cutlets to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned.

•  Remove the lamb cutlets from the skillet and set aside.

•  In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.

•  Add the diced tomato, white wine, and chicken broth to the skillet and bring to a simmer.

•  Add the olives, capers, parsley, and basil to the skillet and stir to combine.

• Place the lamb cutlets back into the skillet, making sure they are coated in the sauce.

•  Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the lamb is cooked to your desired level of doneness.

•  Serve the lamb cutlets provencale hot, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.

 Lamb cutlets provencale is best served with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple green salad. You can also serve it with a side of mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the delicious tomato and herb sauce. Enjoy!

image by Cafe Delight