Grilled Mini Racks of American Lamb with Fig Vinaigrette and Herbed Yukon Gold Mashers – Chef Lachlan – Frasca Food and Wine

“Smaller racks are quick to grill and the sweet/tart flavors of the fig vinaigrette are a perfect complement to lamb. I love the depth of color and flavor in Colorado-grown Yukon Gold potatoes. The fresh herbs make this a surprising summer variation on a traditionally cold-weather side dish.”

–LMP

Servings: 4-6
Ingredients

  • 2 racks (about 2 lbs) Superior Farmsâ„¢ rack of lamb, frenched
  • 3 tablespoons  vegetable oil
  • ½-cup  dried California Black Mission figs, chopped
  • 1 cup  very hot water
  • ¼-cup  good quality olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon  balsamic vinegar
  • 1 pinch  Kosher salt
  • 2 turns  of cracked pepper
  • 1 ½ pounds  Colorado Yukon Gold potatoes
  • 1 cup  heavy cream
  • ½ cup  butter, cubed
  • ¼ cup rosemary, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon chives, chopped

Instructions

FOR THE FIG VINAIGRETTE

Rehydrate figs in hot water until soft, about 15 minutes. Pulse figs with water in food processor until incorporated but still a little chunky. Add the vinegar, salt and pepper. Remove mixture to a bowl, add the oil and just barely mix with a spoon. Keep warm or at room temperature while grilling lamb.
FOR THE HERBED POTATOES

Place whole potatoes in large pot of cold water and slowly bring to a simmer. Cook until potatoes are fork-tender, approximately 60-90 minutes depending on the size of the potatoes. Meanwhile, warm the cream (do not boil). When potatoes are done, peel and mash them with a fork, slowly adding the warmed cream. Add the butter, using a heavy duty kitchen spoon or whisk. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Finish with chopped rosemary and chives. Keep warm in oven until lamb is ready.
FOR THE LAMB

Cut lamb to create smaller racks of 2 ribs each. Rub with vegetable oil and season with salt and pepper. Place on the hottest part of the grill for approximately 6 minutes per side, searing to retain natural juices. Once seared, move lamb to a medium/low part of the grill for another 3-5 minutes or until a meat thermometer reads 145-degrees for a medium-rare center.