Reviewing Costco Rack of Lamb: A Culinary Experience 2024

Taste Costco rack of lamb for the first time

After trying Costco’s rack of lamb for the first time, my brother and I were impressed. It’s our go-to choice for special occasions, adding richness and flavor to our dinner table. The meat is juicy and tender, with an outstanding flavor balance that makes it stand out. While lamb’s unique taste might not be for everyone, we enjoy its subtle earthy aroma that adds to its charm, making every bite a delightful experience.

Minding Your Money: The Value Proposition

Costco offers a variety of lamb products with different price points. For instance, the Kirkland Signature Frenched Lamb Rack is priced at $17.40 per pound, with an estimated package weight of about 1.49 lb. This means a package can cost around $25.93, depending on the weight.

Costco also offers Halal Certified Lamb Boxes, but the price for this item is recommended to check at your local Costco warehouse.

Keep in mind that prices may vary based on your location and the specific Costco warehouse. It’s always a good idea to check the current prices on Costco’s website or at your local store.

Please note: Prices are as of 2/25/2024 and may have changed since then.

Nutritional Content of Kirkland Signature Australian Frenched Lamb Rack from Costco

The nutritional content of the lamb rack from Costco, specifically the Kirkland Signature Australian Frenched Lamb Rack, can be summarized as follows:

Calories: A single chop (50g) contains 160 calories.
Fat: The fat content in one chop is 12g, which makes up about 71% of the total caloric content.
Carbohydrates: These lamb chops contain 0g of carbohydrates.
Protein: Each chop provides 11g of protein, accounting for approximately 29% of the total calories.

It’s important to mention these values for the plain, unseasoned lamb rack. Seasoning or marinating the lamb will likely alter these values.

For those watching their diet closely, remember that lamb is rich in protein, Vitamin B12, and iron. However, it is high in fat, incredibly saturated fat. Consume it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

How I Cooked the Lamb – Cooking Tips

Sous Vide Preparation

Seasoning: Start by seasoning your Costco rack of lamb with your choice of herbs and spices. A simple mix of rosemary, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper works wonderfully. Make sure to coat the lamb evenly on all sides.
Vacuum Sealing: Once seasoned, place the rack of lamb into a vacuum-sealable bag. If you have a vacuum sealer, remove all air and seal the bag tightly. If you don’t have one, use the water displacement method: partially fill a zip-top bag, slowly submerge it in water (the water pressure will push out the air), and seal it completely.
Sous Vide Setup: Set up your sous vide machine in a large pot of water, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Set the temperature to 132°F (55.5°C) for a medium-rare finish, or adjust according to your preference.

Cooking Process

Sous Vide Bath: Place your vacuum-sealed rack of lamb into the sous vide bath. Ensure the meat is fully submerged. Cook for 2 hours. This slow and steady cooking process will ensure the lamb is cooked evenly throughout, preserving its juiciness and enhancing its flavors.
Pre-Grill Prep: After the sous vide bath, remove the lamb from the bag and pat it dry. At this point, you can add a bit more seasoning if desired. Preheat your charcoal grill to high heat.
Grilling: Place the lamb racks on the grill, bone-side down first. Sear each side for about 1-2 minutes, just enough to get a nice crust. Be careful not to overcook during this step, as the lamb is already cooked to perfection from the sous vide process.
Resting and Serving: Once grilled to your liking, remove the lamb from the grill and let it rest for about 10 minutes before cutting into it. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

Enjoy your perfectly cooked, restaurant-quality rack of lamb right at home! Remember, cooking is an art; feel free to adjust the cooking times and temperatures according to your preference and your specific equipment.

Grilling Process

I noticed the quick charring when I placed both seasoned and unseasoned lamb racks on the hot grill. The high heat and fat content led to a fast sear, giving the lamb a crispy exterior. The seasoned lamb sizzled as the herbs and spices met the heat, releasing a lovely aroma. I kept a close eye, flipping every 1-2 minutes for an even sear and to avoid burning.

Grilling Taste Test

After letting the grilled lamb rest for about 10 minutes, it was time for the taste test. Slicing into the racks revealed perfectly cooked medium-rare lamb—pink, juicy, and inviting.

The unseasoned lamb was delicious on its own. Sous vide cooking retained the lamb’s natural flavors, while grilling added a smoky, charred taste. The meat was tender and juicy, melting in the mouth with each bite.

However, the seasoned lamb stole the spotlight. The seasoning infused the meat during sous vide, creating a remarkable depth of flavor. Each bite was a mix of herbaceous rosemary and thyme, a touch of pepper heat, and a hint of garlic—perfectly complementing the rich lamb taste. The seasoned meat was just as tender and juicy as the unseasoned rack, if not more.

Seasoning Recommendations

Based on this taste test, I recommend seasoning your lamb before cooking. While the unseasoned lamb is delicious, the seasoned lamb provides an elevated culinary experience. Plus, you can get creative with your seasonings—consider adding cumin for a Middle Eastern twist or some smoked paprika for a hint of Spanish flair.

Costco rack of lamb in air fryer oven

Marinating the Lamb

To prepare the Costco rack of lamb for air frying, I used a marinade consisting of soy sauce, wine, seasoning, green onions, and regular onions. This blend of ingredients imparts a savory, slightly sweet flavor to the lamb, enhancing its natural taste.

After chopping the lamb into pieces, I let them marinate for two hours. This allows the marinade flavors to penetrate the meat deeply, resulting in a more flavorful dish.

Preparation Before Air Frying

Before air frying, I basted the marinated lamb pieces with garlic butter and chili sauce. The garlic butter adds a rich, creamy flavor, while the chili sauce provides a touch of heat.

Air Frying Process

The air frying process is relatively straightforward. I preheated the air fryer to 350°F and baked the lamb pieces for three minutes. Afterward, I flipped the pieces, seasoned them again, and baked them for another three minutes.

This method of cooking produces a medium-rare lamb dish. The air fryer’s high heat sears the lamb’s outside, creating a crispy, flavorful crust, while the inside remains tender and juicy.

Differences & Similarities: Kirkland Signature Australian Lamb Rack vs. Frenched Lamb Rack

The Kirkland Signature Australian Lamb Rack and the Frenched Lamb Rack have fundamental differences and similarities.

Similarities

Both the Australian and Frenched lamb racks from Kirkland Signature are products of 100% premium Australian lamb. They are bone-in, contributing to their flavor and tenderness when cooked. Both lamb racks can be prepared in various ways, including grilling, roasting, or air frying.

Differences

The main difference between these two lamb racks is their preparation. The term “Frenched” refers to a method of preparation where the meat is cut away from the end of the rib bones, typically about 2 inches down, exposing the bone for a more elegant presentation. This means the Frenched Lamb Rack has less meat around the bones than the Australian Lamb Rack.

The Frenched Lamb Rack is available as a halal option, which means it’s prepared according to Islamic law, involving specific methods of slaughtering and butchering.

Another difference could be the weight of the product. For instance, the Fresh Halal Frenched Lamb Rack has an average weight of 0.7 kg.

Choosing between the Kirkland Signature Australian Lamb Rack and the Frenched Lamb Rack would depend on personal preference, dietary requirements (such as halal meat), and how you plan to present and prepare the dish.

Video Review

Reviewing Costco Rack of Lamb: A Culinary Experience

Conclusion: A Culinary Crown Jewel from Costco

Kirkland Signature Australian Frenched Lamb Rack from Costco is a true culinary crown jewel. Whether grilled or air-fried, this lamb consistently delivers delicious and flavorful results. Its high-quality meat and its affordable price point make it an excellent choice for special occasions or for elevating your everyday meals.

If you’re a fan of lamb or looking to try it for the first time, give this lamb rack a chance. With its versatility and delicious taste, it’s sure to become a family favorite. And with Costco’s commitment to quality, you can trust that you’re getting the best when choosing their lamb rack. Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Where can I buy the Kirkland Signature Lamb Rack?

The Kirkland Signature Lamb Rack is available at Costco stores. Availability may vary by location, so checking with your local store is best.

What are the best ways to cook the Kirkland Signature Lamb Rack?

This type of lamb rack can be cooked in various ways, including grilling, roasting, or air frying. Cooking methods can be adjusted according to personal taste preferences and desired doneness.

Is the Costco Kirkland Signature Lamb Rack available in halal?

Yes, a halal version of the Frenched Lamb Rack is available at select Costco stores. You should confirm the availability of halal options at your local store.

How should I store the Costco lamb rack before cooking?

The lamb rack should be stored in the refrigerator if it is to be used within a few days, or it can be frozen for longer-term storage. If frozen, always thaw it in the fridge and use it within a day or two of thawing for best results.

Can I marinate the Costco lamb rack overnight?

Yes, marinating the lamb rack overnight can enhance its flavor. Ensure it’s covered and stored in the refrigerator during the marinating process.

How do I know when the lamb is cooked to medium-rare?

For medium-rare doneness, the lamb’s internal temperature should reach 130°F to 135°F. Using a meat thermometer will provide the most accurate reading.

Disclaimer

The opinions and review presented here are entirely my own. I have not received any payment or compensation for this review, nor do I have any affiliation with the producers or sellers of Costco. My evaluation is based solely on my personal experience and genuine interaction with the product, aiming to provide an impartial perspective.