Spiced Lamb Chops and Smashed Peas

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 8 lamb chops
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• Kosher salt and pepper
• 4 shallots, chopped
• 3 cups frozen peas, thawed
• 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint
• 2 pieces pita bread, torn into large pieces and lightly toasted

Preparation

1. Heat oven to 400° F.
   
   Heat 1 tablespoon of the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
   
   Season the chops with the curry powder, 3/4 teaspoon salt, and 3/4 teaspoon pepper. Working in batches, brown the chops in the skillet, 2 minutes per side. Transfer to a baking sheet. Roast to the desired doneness, 4 to 6 minutes for medium-rare.
   
   Wipe out skillet. Heat remaining oil over medium heat. Add the shallots and cook for 3 minutes. Add the peas and gently smash with the back of a fork or a potato masher. Cook until heated through.
   
   Remove skillet from heat and stir in the lemon juice, mint, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Serve with the lamb and pita bread.
   
   Tip: Any kind of lamb chop -- rib (shown), loin, or shoulder -- will work in this recipe. If you opt for shoulder chops, plan on cooking only one per person, since they are meatier than the others.