A 1 oz. serving of cooked, lean-only lamb shoulder chop (yield after bone removed) contains approximately 42 calories. This flavorful cut of meat is a great addition to any meal, but what exactly makes it a healthy choice? Let's delve into the nutritional value of this protein-packed option.

Not only is a lean lamb shoulder chop delicious, but it is also a good source of protein, essential vitamins, and minerals. In just one serving you can get a variety of important nutrients to help you maintain a balanced diet.

In this article, we'll cover everything you need to know about lean lamb shoulder chop, from its calorie count to how to prepare it.

How many calories are in a 1 oz. lean lamb shoulder chop?

As mentioned above, a 1 oz. serving of cooked, lean-only lamb shoulder chop (yield after bone removed) contains approximately 42 calories. This makes it a low calorie but high protein option. It's worth noting that the calorie count may differ depending on the cooking method, as frying and deep-frying will add extra calories.

What is the yield after the bone is removed from a lamb shoulder chop?

An average-sized lamb shoulder chop with bone will yield approximately 2 oz. of lean meat after the bone is removed. This means that the actual portion size of lean-only meat will depend on the size of the chop that you purchase and the way in which it is prepared. It is worth consulting your butcher to ensure that you are getting the right cut that works for your meal and portion size.

How is a lamb shoulder chop typically cooked?

Lamb shoulder chop can be cooked in various ways depending on your preferences. The most popular cooking methods include grilling, baking and broiling. These methods enable the fat to be drained as the lamb cooks, making it a lean option. Other methods, such as frying and deep-frying can add extra calories, so it is best to stick with the healthier cooking choices

What part of the lamb does a shoulder chop come from?

A lamb shoulder chop comes from the shoulder of the lamb, specifically the shoulder blade. This makes it a relatively tough cut of meat that requires slow cooking methods to tenderize it. Due to its high marbling, its flavor profile is rich and less gamey compared to other cuts of lamb, making it a good beginner-friendly option for those who are new to lamb.

Is a lean lamb shoulder chop healthy?

A lean lamb shoulder chop offers a variety of important health benefits. Not only is it low in calories and high in protein, but it also provides important vitamins and minerals, including a range of B vitamins, zinc, and iron. Iron is particularly important for overall health, playing a role in red blood cell production, while zinc is an essential mineral that helps maintain immune function.

How much protein is in a lean lamb shoulder chop?

In addition to its low calorie count, a lean lamb shoulder chop also offers a good amount of protein. 1 oz. of cooked, lean-only lamb shoulder chop (yield after bone removed) contains approximately 6g of protein. This high protein count, coupled with its low calorie count, makes lean lamb shoulder chop an excellent food choice to help promote satiety and maintain healthy body weight.

What other nutrients are in a lean lamb shoulder chop?

Lamb shoulder chop isn't just a good source of protein, but it's also rich in healthful vitamins and minerals. It is packed with B vitamins, which are needed to process and release energy from the food we eat, and zinc, an essential mineral important for maintaining our immune function and overall health. It also contains moderate amounts of potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus, which are all integral to bone strength and overall good health.

Can a lean lamb shoulder chop be part of a balanced diet?

Yes, a well-proportioned serving of lean lamb shoulder chop can be part of a balanced diet. It can provide a source of high-quality protein, essential vitamins, and minerals. It would help if you made sure to pair it with other healthy foods, like vegetables and whole grains, to create a nourishing and balanced meal to suit your needs.

How can a lean lamb shoulder chop be prepared?

There are various ways to prepare a lamb shoulder chop depending on your preferences. It can be marinated, roasted or grilled for that perfect smoky and tender flavor. One major rule to stick to is to always aim for lean, healthy cooking techniques that won't add unnecessary calories. While lamb shoulder chop is often braised or stewed, this should be done sparingly as slow-cooking methods like these can add calories due to the addition of various sauces.

Are there any potential drawbacks to eating a lean lamb shoulder chop?

When it comes to lamb shoulder chop, the primary concern is its high sodium content; however, if you maintain a well-balanced and varied diet and avoid the addition of extra sodium or high-calorie sauces, you should be able to enjoy this delicious protein-packed cut of meat without concern. It is imperative always to talk to a qualified health professional or a registered dietitian before changing your diet or making dietary decisions.