grilled lamb chops with callaloo garnish

Callaloo

callaloo and spice rub for lamb: a taste of the islands

By:

Savory Touch

Published:

20 Aug 2025
grilled lamb chops with callaloo garnish
Imagine biting into a succulent lamb chop, infused with a symphony of warm spices, followed by the comforting embrace of creamy, flavorful callaloo. This Callaloo & Spice Rub for Lamb recipe is more than just a meal; it's an experience. It's a journey to the sun-kissed islands, where vibrant flavors and laid-back vibes reign supreme. This recipe combines the rich, earthy notes of a homemade spice rub with the verdant goodness of callaloo, a traditional Caribbean vegetable stew. The result? A dish that's both comforting and exciting, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
spices in mortar and pestle close-up
I remember the first time I tasted callaloo. I was visiting a small roadside restaurant in Trinidad, and the aroma alone was intoxicating. The complex blend of greens, coconut milk, and spices was unlike anything I’d ever had. I knew I had to recreate that magic at home. After many attempts and tweaks, I finally perfected this recipe, which pairs the callaloo with a spice-rubbed lamb that’s both tender and bursting with flavor. Don't be intimidated by the list of ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating a harmonious and unforgettable dish. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is designed to guide you every step of the way.
lamb chops being seasoned with spice rub
What does this mean for you? It means you're about to embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and transport you to a tropical paradise. So, gather your ingredients, put on some reggae music, and let's get cooking! Trust me, the combination of the spiced lamb and the creamy callaloo is something truly special. Okay, so a freind of mine told me about a similair hiking experience in the mountains so i am hoping for a similar experience with this receipe. What do you think?
finished lamb chops with callaloo on a plate, garnished

Required Equipments

  • Mortar and Pestle
  • Mixing Bowls
  • Chef's Knife
  • Cutting Board
  • Grill or Oven
  • Meat Thermometer

Callaloo and Spice Rub for Lamb: A Taste of the Islands: Frequently Asked Questions

Callaloo and Spice Rub for Lamb: A Taste of the Islands

Infuse succulent lamb chops with warm spices and pair with creamy, flavorful callaloo—a traditional Caribbean vegetable stew. This Callaloo & Spice Rub for Lamb recipe offers a comforting and exciting culinary experience perfect for any occasion.

⏳ Yield & Time

Yield: 4 servings

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time:

🍽 Ingredients

📖 Instructions

  1. Prepare the Spice Rub: In a mortar, combine coriander seeds, cumin seeds, allspice berries, black peppercorns, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Grind until finely powdered. If using pre-ground spices, mix them thoroughly in a bowl.
  2. Add the Heat: Stir in smoked paprika, scotch bonnet pepper (or red pepper flakes), garlic powder, onion powder, and sea salt to the ground spices. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of flavors. Pro Tip: Taste the rub and adjust the heat level to your liking. Remember, a little scotch bonnet goes a long way!
  3. Prepare the Lamb: Pat the lamb chops dry with paper towels. This helps the spice rub adhere better. Generously rub the spice mixture all over the lamb chops, ensuring every surface is coated. Gently massage the rub into the meat. Let the lamb chops marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. The longer they marinate, the more flavorful they become.
  4. Prepare the Callaloo: Wash the callaloo thoroughly. Remove any tough stems and roughly chop the leaves. If using frozen callaloo, thaw it and squeeze out any excess water. In a large skillet or pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
  5. Add Aromatics and Callaloo: Add minced garlic, diced bell pepper, and sliced scotch bonnet pepper (if using). Sauté for another 2 minutes until fragrant. Add the chopped callaloo, coconut milk, and chicken broth (or vegetable broth). Stir well to combine.
  6. Simmer the Callaloo: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the callaloo is tender and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Tip: If the mixture becomes too thick, add a little more broth to reach your desired consistency.
  7. Grill the Lamb: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using an oven, preheat it to 400°F (200°C). Grill the lamb chops for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer depending on your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium-rare, aim for 130-135°F (54-57°C). For oven-baking, place the lamb chops on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the desired doneness is reached.
  8. Rest and Serve: Remove the lamb chops from the grill or oven and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chop. Spoon the callaloo onto plates and top with the grilled lamb chops. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

📝 Notes

  • For a milder flavor, remove the seeds from the scotch bonnet pepper before slicing.
  • If you don't have fresh callaloo, you can use frozen callaloo or substitute with spinach or kale.
  • Adjust the amount of scotch bonnet pepper to suit your spice preference.

🍎 Nutrition

Calories: 450 kcal

Protein: 30g

Fat: 30g

Carbohydrates: 20g

Fiber: 5g

Calcium: 200mg

Food is our common ground, a universal experience. - James Beard

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