Finished bone-in lamb chop resting on cutting board, natural light
Finished lamb chop after a hot cast-iron sear. Rest before slicing. Photo by Cristiano Pinto on Unsplash.

Lamb Chops (Cast-Iron): Simple Method

Quick Answer
Pat dry and salt. Heat cast-iron until hot. Sear 2–3 minutes per side. Rest 3–5 minutes.

Tongs turning a lamb chop over high heat with flames rising
Step 3: Sear 2–3 minutes per side over high heat. Photo by Paul Hermann on Unsplash.

Ingredients

  • 2 lamb rib or loin chops (≈ 250–300 g total)
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 tsp beef tallow (or real butter), optional

Method

  1. Pat chops dry thoroughly; salt both sides.
  2. Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high until just smoking; add tallow (optional).
  3. Sear chops 2–3 minutes per side.
  4. Stand them on the fat edge 30–60 seconds to render, if desired.
  5. Rest on a warm plate 3–5 minutes; salt to taste.

Cues
Browned edges, deep golden crust, slight spring back when pressed. (Thermometer cue: ~130–135°F / 54–57°C for medium-rare.)

Batch notes (optional)

Cook 3–4 chops; cool uncovered 10 minutes, then refrigerate in a shallow container. Rewarm briefly in a hot pan or eat cold, sliced.

Variations

  • Butter basted in… in the last 30 seconds.
  • Optional rosemary sprig in the pan for aroma.

Storage

Fridge: up to 3 days. Freezer: up to 2 months (slice off the bone first).

Micro-practice

Unclench → 4-2-6 breath → feel feet (10–20 sec).

FAQ

  1. Pan is smoking a lot, normal? Use a thin sheen of fat and keep heat just below smoking; open a window if needed.
  2. No thermometer. How do I judge? Medium-rare feels springy with a little give; juices run slightly pink.
  3. Can I use shoulder chops? Yes, of course. Reduce heat slightly and cook a bit longer; they’re thinner and cook fast.
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Clinical services are provided within my scope as a licensed clinical psychologist (CA, RI). My Doctor of Integrative Medicine credential is a doctoral degree with board certification by the Board of Integrative Medicine (BOIM) and does not represent a medical/physician license. All educational content is for learning only and is not a substitute for professional medical or psychological care.

About Dr. Nnenna Ndika

Dr. Nnenna Ndika is an integrative, trauma-informed clinical psychologist (CA/RI) and Doctor of Integrative Medicine (BOIM). Her work bridges neuroscience, somatic regulation, and environmental rhythms—simple, minimalist practices that help the body remember safety and the mind regain quiet strength. Silent Medicine is educational only; it does not replace medical or psychological care. Begin with Start Here or explore Mind-Body Healing.

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