Edible Paradise

INGREDIENTS:

Marinade
1 large yellow onion
4 cloves garlic
2 cups pomegranate juice
1/2 cup red wine
1 tablespoon honey
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pepper
1/2 bunch fresh basil, chopped

Lamb
2 racks of lamb, french-cut by the butcher (about 8 to 9 ribs each)

For the Marinade:
Puree the onion, garlic and basil in a food processor. Add the pomegranate juice, red wine, honey, salt and pepper. Puree until blended.

Do ahead:
Rub the marinade over the lamb. Place lamb in a large zip-lock or other plastic bag. Pour the remaining marinade into the bag. Seal the bag, place in a bowl or dish, and marinate over night, or at least 8 hours in the refrigerator. (The plastic bag helps keep the lamb surrounded by the marinade.)

Take lamb out of the refrigerator at least one hour before roasting to come to room temperature. (This insures even roasting.)

Preheat the oven to 450°F.

Wipe the marinade off the lamb. Place the racks of lamb on a shallow pan with the ribs up.

Roast the racks for 15 to 20 minutes for medium rare; longer for medium-well to well done (Note: using an instant read thermometer, medium rare is 145 to 150°F; medium is 160°F.) Always roast with at least 20 minutes to spare. It is best to let it sit for a while before carving or serving.

If using a convection oven, lower the oven to 400°F and use the high fan setting.

No sauce is necessary. However if you prefer to serve with a sauce, a lamb stock reduction with pomegranate juice, orange zest and a little Port works well.