Active Time

　　1 1/2 hr

　　Total Time

　　2 1/2 hr

　　This dish features cabbage and cauliflower prepared simply, to preserve the purity of their flavors. The dates bring out the inherent sweetness of both vegetables perfectly. Make the purées first, then roast the cabbage and cook the chops.

　　

Ingredients

Makes 4 servings

　　2 (8-rib) frenched racks of lamb (each rack 1 1/2 pound), trimmed and brought to room temperature

　　1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt

　　1/2 teaspoon black pepper

　　1 tablespoon peanut oil

　　2 tablespoons unsalted butter

　　2 fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs

　　Roasted Savoy cabbage with raisins

　　Cauliflower purée

　　Date purée

　　

Special Equipment

an instant-read thermometer

　　

Step 1

Cut each rack into 4 double chops, then pat dry and sprinkle with salt and pepper.

　　

Step 2

Heat oil in a 12-inch heavy skillet over moderate heat until hot but not smoking, then brown chops on all sides, about 6 minutes total. (Adjust heat so oil sizzles but does not spatter.)

　　

Step 3

Add butter and thyme and continue to cook, turning chops frequently with tongs and basting occasionally with cooking fat, until thermometer inserted between ribs to center of a chop (do not touch bone) registers 130°F for medium-rare, 16 to 20 minutes more. Transfer chops to a cutting board and let stand 10 minutes, then cut each double chop into 2 chops.

　　

Step 4

Mound cabbage in center of each of 4 plates and top each serving with 4 chops. Spoon cauliflower and date purées alongside cabbage and serve immediately.