Pan-Roasted Berbere-Spiced Lamb Chops with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Tender lamb chops pan-roasted with a fiery berbere rub, served alongside a cooling garlic yogurt dip. This ethiopian-inspired lamb ready in about 20 minutes blends berbere spice blend, salt, black pepper into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 420 calories and feeds 3, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 10 min Cook: 10 min Serves 3 Ethiopian cuisine 420 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a small bowl, combine 2 tbsp berbere spice blend, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper.
  2. Step 2: Rub the spice mixture evenly over 6 lamb loin chops, pressing gently to coat all sides.
  3. Step 3: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  4. Step 4: Add the lamb chops and cook for 4 minutes per side for medium-rare, adjusting time for desired doneness, until a deep crust forms and chops are cooked through.
  5. Step 5: Remove chops from the skillet and let them rest for 5 minutes.
  6. Step 6: Meanwhile, mix 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt with 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tbsp lemon juice, and 1 tbsp chopped fresh mint in a small bowl until smooth.
  7. Step 7: Serve the lamb chops warm with a generous dollop of garlic yogurt sauce on the side.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Pan-Roasted Berbere-Spiced Lamb Chops with Garlic Yogurt Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 20 minutes (10 min prep + 10 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Pan-Roasted Berbere-Spiced Lamb Chops with Garlic Yogurt Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Pan-Roasted Berbere-Spiced Lamb Chops with Garlic Yogurt Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Pan-Roasted Berbere-Spiced Lamb Chops with Garlic Yogurt Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 3 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 3). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Pan-Roasted Berbere-Spiced Lamb Chops with Garlic Yogurt Sauce?

Ethiopian lamb like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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