Bring Back The Romance Of Outdoor Grilling With This Valentine's Day Recipe

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, set to land on Sunday, February 14th. Around the globe, people will gather to celebrate what has become a rather curious holiday. When you take a closer look at the traditions surrounding the celebration of love, it might be time to shift focus away from the usual heart-shaped chocolates and embrace the joy of outdoor grilling instead. After all, the origins of Valentine’s Day are just as mysterious as its modern customs.

Let’s consider this: Valentine’s Day began as a Christian feast day honoring the memory of at least one saint named Valentine. The Feast of Saint Valentine’s Day commenced in AD 496, and there’s no historical evidence suggesting anything about chocolates, expensive bouquets, or even the idea of snacking on unhealthy treats. It wasn’t until the 15th century that the focus shifted from outdoor grilling to romantic gestures and calorie-laden indulgences. The exact origin of this change remains unknown, but we can be certain it wasn’t inspired by any passionate barbecue enthusiast. So, let 2021 mark the return to the earliest traditions with a delicious Valentine’s Day recipe featuring grilled lamb chops paired with rosemary-infused potatoes.

Garlic & Mint Grilled Lamb Chops

Lamb chops are among the most tender cuts of meat that any grill aficionado could hope for. When cooked to perfection, they lock in the natural juices and pair beautifully with a variety of seasonings. However, lamb chops are quite particular about their flavor companions—happy to dance with thyme, oregano, garlic, and rosemary, among others. For this recipe, we’re going to let garlic and mint take center stage.

Gather These Ingredients:

• 1/3 cup virgin olive oil
• ½ cup chopped fresh mint leaves
• 3 cloves of minced garlic
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste
• 10 petite rib lamb chops (approximately 2 pounds)

Preparation Steps

Begin by preheating your stainless steel PGS Grill to medium heat. In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, chopped mint, and black pepper. Set aside. Take the minced garlic and rub it generously over each lamb chop, ensuring every piece is well-coated. Transfer the chops to a clean plate and brush them thoroughly with the mint-oil mixture on both sides. Lightly sprinkle sea salt over each chop before placing them on the grill.

Like any good relationship, lamb chops require a gentle touch. Grill each side for 3-4 minutes only. Flip the chops just once to achieve a perfect sear. The ideal lamb chop should feel slightly firm yet tender when pressed with a finger. Medium-rare is where these chops truly shine. Remove the chops from the grill, brush them lightly with the remaining mint oil, and serve warm.

A complete Valentine’s Day meal calls for harmony between flavors. Here, garlic acts as the matchmaker, bringing together lamb chops and potatoes in a delightful union. If your partner isn’t quite sold on the idea of meat and potatoes over chocolates, try arranging the lamb chop bones into the shape of a heart. It’s a small gesture that can go a long way.

Grilled Rosemary Potatoes

For the perfect accompaniment, prepare these rosemary-infused potatoes.

Gather These Ingredients:

• 1 pound of potatoes, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 5 peeled and chopped garlic cloves
• 2 teaspoons crushed rosemary
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 ½ tablespoons virgin olive oil
• Aluminum foil

Preparation Instructions

Preheat your outdoor grill to medium heat. In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic, onion, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Add the potatoes and toss until evenly coated. Once the potatoes are fully seasoned, sprinkle the crushed rosemary and gently stir to combine.

Cut two 24-inch lengths of aluminum foil and lay them in a cross pattern to form a T. Place the seasoned potatoes in the center and wrap them tightly in the foil, folding the edges securely to prevent any juices from escaping. Use a third piece of foil to double-wrap the package, ensuring everything stays sealed. Position the wrapped potatoes on the grill with the pinched seam facing upward. Cook for approximately 20 minutes. Carefully flip the foil packet and cook for another 15-20 minutes. Return the packet to its original position and open it cautiously, as steam will escape rapidly. The potatoes should be fork-tender and lightly browned. If you need to keep them warm, you can seal the packet again or transfer them to a pot on a side burner.

Mint Sauce: A Sweet Touch

While lamb chops and potatoes make a savory centerpiece, adding a touch of sweetness can elevate the meal to new heights. Homemade mint sauce brings a personal touch that ensures your loved one won’t be sleeping on the grill until Monday morning.

Gather These Ingredients:

• ¼ cup finely chopped mint leaves
• ¼ cup boiling water
• 1 ½ tablespoons cider vinegar
• 3 tablespoons sugar
• 1/3 teaspoon salt

Preparation Method

In a small serving bowl, combine the sugar and mint leaves. Pour boiling water over the mixture and stir until the sugar dissolves completely. Add the remaining ingredients and stir thoroughly. Cover the bowl and let it steep for about 20 minutes. Serve the warm mint sauce alongside the lamb chops, allowing your partner to add a dollop as they please.

Remember, restoring the traditional spirit of Valentine’s Day involves more than just the food. Set a beautiful table, light some candles, and don’t forget to mention that this entire meal is made from scratch. While the lamb chops and rosemary potatoes will undoubtedly impress, the mint sauce could very well be the spark that reignites the romance after dinner.