Porcini-Crusted Australian Rib Chop

with Pea, Mint and Feta Salad

Recipes Serves 4

AUSTRALIAN LAMB

• 12 Australian lamb rib chops
• extra virgin olive oil
• ¼ cup dried, sliced porcini or preferred dried mushrooms
• 2 leaves fresh basil, torn
• ½ cup cubed crusty bread
• salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

PEA SALAD

• 1 ½ cups fresh (or frozen) peas
• 3 tablespoons crumbled feta cheese
• ½ cup fresh mint leaves, torn
• 1 lemon

OPTIONAL, TO SERVE

• Serve lamb chops and pea salad with additional lemon and olive oil on the side.

1. To prepare the lamb, brush generously with olive oil and salt and pepper to taste. Place dried mushrooms, basil and bread in a food processor (or coffee grinder) and process to a fine crumb. Transfer to plate or bowl and press the lamb firmly into the crumb to form a crust. Cover and refrigerate 30 minutes (or overnight) to set crust.
2. Heat enough oil in a non-stick pan to cover the base. Sauté chops, a few at a time, over medium high heat until golden brown and medium rare, about 10 minutes total, or until cooked as desired. To test, press gently with finger. The meat should be firm but springy. Keep warm in a low oven.
3. To prepare the pea salad, while the lamb is cooking add peas to pan of boiling, salted water and cook for 30–40 seconds. Drain, rinse with cold water and transfer to a bowl. Add feta cheese, mint leaves, a squeeze of lemon, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss well, crushing peas slightly.