How to Substitute Lamb Shoulder Chops for Lamb Shanks

Lamb shanks can be replaced by lamb shoulder chops.

In order to substitute lamb shoulder chops for lamb shanks, you have to cook the chops the same way you would cook the shanks. Lamb shank is a cut from the arm of the shoulder that contains leg bone and shoulder bone and has a thin layer of fat on it that provides rich flavor. Lamb shoulder chops are also usually cut from the arm and contain cross sections of arm bone and rib bone, so they are similar in cuts. In order to obtain the same flavor from the shoulder chops, you must broil the meat.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Oil
• Large nonstick frying pan
• Knife
• Cutting board

1. Trim the excess fat off of the lamb shoulder chops. Leaving too much fat on the lamb shoulder chops will alter the flavor, causing it to not taste like lamb shank, as the shoulder chops and the lamb shank contain different types of fat. The lamb shank contains a small film of fat, while the lamb shoulder chops contain chunks of fat on the edges of the meat.

2. Heat oil in a large nonstick frying pan. Allow the oil to become hot, but not boil or bubble. Prepare the shoulder chops before cooking just like you would with lamb shanks, for example sprinkling salt, pepper or other spices on the meat.

3. Place the chops in the oil carefully and allow the oil to brown one side of the chops for four to five minutes. Flip the chops over and allow the other side to brown for five minutes as well.

4. Remove the chops from the oil and continue the recipe like normal. If the lamb chops need to be cut again, make sure to cut around the arm and rib bones. With the chops cooked in this matter, the recipe will taste similar to lamb shanks.

Tips & Warnings

• Working with hot oil can burn your skin.

References

• Meals For You: Guide to Meat Cuts-Lamb