Description
Cumin Lamb Stir-Fry is a flavorful and quick Chinese-inspired dish featuring tender slices of lamb marinated in soy sauce and Shaoxing wine, stir-fried with aromatic cumin seeds, garlic, ginger, and fresh vegetables. This spicy, savory main course is perfect for a weeknight dinner served alongside rice or noodles.
Ingredients
Scale
Lamb Marinade
- 1 pound lamb, thinly sliced (preferably from leg or shoulder)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
Stir-Fry
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
- 1 tablespoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 2 green onions, cut into 2-inch pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Lamb: In a bowl, toss the thinly sliced lamb with soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch. Let it marinate for 15 to 20 minutes to absorb the flavors and tenderize.
- Toast Cumin Seeds: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add the cumin seeds and toast for about 30 seconds until fragrant to release their aroma.
- Cook Lamb: Add the marinated lamb slices in a single layer to the hot pan and stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes until browned and nearly cooked through. Remove the lamb from the pan and set it aside.
- Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables: In the same pan, heat the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add minced garlic, ginger, and chili flakes and cook for 30 seconds to infuse the oil with their flavors. Add sliced onion and green bell pepper and stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes until vegetables are slightly tender but still crisp.
- Combine and Finish Cooking: Return the lamb to the pan along with ground cumin and green onions. Stir-fry everything together for another 1 to 2 minutes until well mixed and heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Serve the cumin lamb stir-fry hot with steamed rice or noodles for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- Slice the lamb thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like celery or carrots to the stir-fry for extra texture and nutrition.
- For more heat, consider adding Sichuan peppercorns or a drizzle of hot chili oil.
