Crispy Lamb Belly w/ Pistachio Chimichurri & Butter Braised Asparagus

December 14, 2015

Slowly roasted lamb sliced up and pan fried for a crispy yet succulent, perfect bite…sounds pretty fabulous to us! This treat designed by Chef Sean Brock comes to us courtesy of the American Pistachio Growers.

Ingredients

1 Lamb belly, about 1.5 pounds

Salt

Black pepper

One bunch Fresh asparagus

3 tablespoons Butter

½ Lemon

Salt

1 cup Basil leaves, lightly packed

½ cup Parsley leaves lightly packed

½ Oregano leaves, lightly packed

1 cup Extra virgin olive oil

5 tablespoons Lime juice

1 cup Pistachios, peeled and roughly chopped

2 Garlic cloves, sliced thin

1 teaspoon Smoked paprika

½ cup Onion, small dice

Preparation

For the Lamb:

Preheat oven to 300 ˚F. Season the lamb belly with the salt and black pepper on both sides. Place in a roasting pan on a roasting rack. Cook the lamb until it pulls away when pinched with tongs, about 3 hours. Allow the lamb to come to room temperature on the counter top. Place in the oven and press with something heavy like a cast iron skillet. Allow to press over night. Portion into 1.5 ounce blocks. To finish lamb: Heat a large cast iron skillet over high heat. When pan is hot add one tablespoon canola oil. When oil shimmers, add lamb belly. Do not over crowd the pan. You will need to do this in several batches. Cook the lamb until golden brown and crispy on both sides, about 2 minutes per side. Reserve warm in a 200˚F oven.

For the Asparagus:

Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium high heat. When pan is hot add the butter. Allow the butter to melt and add the asparagus. Cook for 3-5 minutes, occasionally turning the asparagus over so it cooks evenly.

For the Pistachio Chimichurri:

Place all ingredients except the olive oil into a food processor fitted with a metal blade and process for 2 minutes, scraping the sides every so often. Slowly add the olive oil. Reserve at room temperature. Use as an accompaniment for the Lamb Belly or any other grilled or braised meats.

Suggested Pairing: Citron Vodka Martini, American IPA, Viognier/Marsanne/Roussane

Find out more about the American Pistachio Growers.