Mustard-Rubbed Lamb Rack with Apple Mint “Marmalade”


2 frenched Australian racks of lamb (about 2 1/2 pounds total)
Mint sprigs, for garnish
RUB
3 tablespoons whole-grain mustard
2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
4 garlic cloves,minced or pressed through a garlic press
1 tablespoon minced fresh thyme
1 tablespoon olive oil
MARMALADE
1 tablespoon butter
1 large unpeeled green apple, cored and coarsely grated
1 tablespoon cider vinegar
1/2 cup red pepper jelly
1 tablespoon minced fresh mint
1. There should be only a thin layer of fat over the meaty side of the lamb racks; if too thick, trim fat carefully with a sharp knife.
2. To prepare the rub, place all ingredients in a small bowl and mix to a paste. Dry lamb well with paper towels, then smear rub on meaty parts.
Let sit at room temperature for 20 minutes.
3. To prepare the marmalade,melt butter in a sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add apple and sauté for 4 minutes, or until just tender. Add vinegar, jelly and mint, bring to a boil, and boil for 2 minutes, or until it has the consistency of chutney. Let cool.
4. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 450°F. In a shallow roasting pan, set lamb racks flat,meaty side up. Roast for 20 minutes, or until internal temperature is 135-140°F (medium-rare), or to the doneness you like.
5. Remove from oven, loosely tent with foil and let stand for 5 minutes.
Carve into chops, cutting between the bones.
6. Serve 3-4 chops per person. Dollop with marmalade and garnish with mint.
Makes 4 servings.

Gingered Spam Salad

1 cn Spam, sliced matchstick size
1/4 c Finely chopped ginger root
1 ea Small red onion, finely Chopped
1/2 ts Garlic powder
1/4 c Freshly squeezed lime juice Zest of 1 lime
1/2 ts Oriental dried chili powder
1/4 c Chopped cilantro leaves
8 ea Cherry tomatoes
Thai bird peppers and
Cilantro sprigs to garnish

Combine all ingredients in a sealed glass or plastic container to marinate. Refrigerate at least two hours or preferably overnight.
Stir or shake occasionally to evenly coat. One hour before serving, stir in cilantro. Serve on a bed of torn lettuce of your choice.
Garnish with quartered cherry tomatoes, Thai bird peppers and cilantro sprigs.