Cumin Lamb Noodles

Restaurant-style Cumin Lamb Noodles are a delightful dish that combines homemade hand-pulled noodles with tender lamb, all enveloped in a rich and spicy chili oil sauce. This recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or when you want to impress guests with your culinary skills. The bold flavors of cumin and Sichuan peppercorns make it an unforgettable experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – With simple steps, you can create a restaurant-quality dish right in your kitchen.
• Flavor Explosion – The aromatic spices and rich chili oil provide a unique taste that will leave everyone wanting more.
• Versatile Dish – Perfect for various occasions, from casual weeknight meals to special gatherings.
• Homemade Noodles – Making your own noodles adds a personal touch and elevates the overall dish.
• Quick Cooking Time – Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s ideal for busy nights when you crave something delicious.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Rolling pin
• Large pot
• Wok or large skillet
• Sharp knife
• Mixing bowls

Importance of Each Tool

• Rolling pin – Essential for rolling out the noodle dough evenly, ensuring the perfect thickness.
• Wok or large skillet – Provides ample space for stir-frying the lamb and vegetables quickly while retaining heat efficiently.
• Sharp knife – Necessary for slicing the lamb thinly against the grain, enhancing tenderness and flavor absorption.

Ingredients

To prepare the flavorful Cumin Lamb Noodles, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Noodles

• 1 batch homemade hand-pulled noodles (or wide wheat noodles)

For the Lamb Marinade

• 2 tablespoons whole cumin seeds
• 2 teaspoons sichuan peppercorns
• 1 teaspoon whole coriander seeds
• 1 lb lamb (thinly sliced against the grain)
• 1 tablespoon Shaoxing apple vinegar (or dry apple juice)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon peanut oil (or vegetable oil)
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch

For the Sauce

• 1/2 cup homemade chili oil (and more to taste)
• 3 tablespoons chinkiang vinegar
• 1/4 cup Shaoxing apple vinegar (or dry apple juice)
• 4 teaspoons light soy sauce
• 4 teaspoons dark soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon peanut oil (or vegetable oil)

For Stir-Frying

• 8 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 inches ginger (minced)
• 1 red onion (thinly sliced)
• 1 hot green chili (sliced)
• 1/2 bunch cilantro (chopped)

How to Make Cumin Lamb Noodles

Step 1: Prepare Your Noodle Dough

If making your own noodles, ensure that the dough is fully prepared before starting on the lamb stir fry. Roll out the dough until it’s thin enough to pull by hand.

Step 2: Boil Water for Noodles

Set a pot of water on high heat to boil. This will be used to cook your noodles right after you finish stir-frying the lamb.

Step 3: Marinate the Lamb

In a mixing bowl, combine sliced lamb with cumin seeds, sichuan peppercorns, coriander seeds, Shaoxing apple vinegar, salt, peanut oil, and cornstarch. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Lamb

In your wok or large skillet over medium-high heat:
1. Add peanut oil.
2. Once hot, add minced garlic and ginger; sauté until fragrant.
3. Add marinated lamb slices; stir-fry until browned and cooked through.
4. Introduce sliced red onion and green chili; stir-fry for an additional minute.

Step 5: Combine with Sauce

Pour in homemade chili oil, chinkiang vinegar, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, and adjust seasoning as needed. Stir well to coat all ingredients evenly.

Step 6: Cook the Noodles

Once the water is boiling, cook your homemade hand-pulled noodles according to your recipe or package instructions until al dente. Drain well.

Step 7: Serve

Toss cooked noodles with lamb mixture in the wok until combined. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving warm.

Enjoy your delicious Cumin Lamb Noodles!

How to Serve Cumin Lamb Noodles

Serving cumin lamb noodles can elevate your dining experience. These flavorful noodles pair wonderfully with various side dishes and garnishes that enhance their bold taste.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Cilantro: Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for a burst of freshness.
• Green Onions: Thinly sliced green onions add crunch and flavor.

Pair with Vegetables

• Stir-Fried Bok Choy: Serve alongside lightly stir-fried bok choy for a healthy contrast.
• Pickled Cucumbers: A tangy cucumber salad offers a refreshing balance to the rich lamb flavors.

Incorporate Crunchy Elements

• Toasted Sesame Seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds gives an added layer of texture.
• Fried Shallots: Crispy fried shallots can enhance both flavor and crunch.

How to Perfect Cumin Lamb Noodles

Perfecting your cumin lamb noodles ensures a restaurant-quality dish at home. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use Fresh Spices: Freshly toasted whole spices provide a richer flavor compared to pre-ground options.
• Slice Lamb Thinly: Cut the lamb against the grain into thin slices for tender bites.
• Control Chili Oil Amount: Adjust the chili oil according to your spice preference for optimal heat.
• Cook Noodles Al Dente: Ensure your noodles are cooked just right to maintain a chewy texture without being mushy.

Best Side Dishes for Cumin Lamb Noodles

Complementing cumin lamb noodles with the right sides can enhance your meal. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Steamed Dumplings: Savory dumplings filled with vegetables or meat are a great match.
2. Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic offer a crunchy, flavorful side.
3. Egg Drop Soup: A light egg drop soup provides warmth and comfort alongside the main dish.
4. Sweet and Sour Radish Salad: This tangy salad adds brightness and balances the richness of the noodles.
5. Spicy Wontons: Tossed in chili oil, these wontons bring additional heat and flavor to your plate.
6. Vegetable Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with fresh vegetables are perfect for dipping.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Cumin Lamb Noodles can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes that can affect the final dish.

• Bold Ingredients: Using incorrect types of noodles can ruin the texture. Always opt for homemade hand-pulled noodles or wide wheat noodles for the best results.
• Bold Overcooking Lamb: Overcooking lamb leads to tough meat. Cook it just enough to remain tender and juicy, usually about 5 minutes.
• Bold Ignoring Spice Toasting: Not toasting your spices will diminish their flavor. Take a moment to toast cumin seeds and Sichuan peppercorns to enhance their aroma.
• Bold Skipping Marinade Time: Rushing the marinade process can lead to bland meat. Allow at least 15 minutes for the lamb to absorb the flavors from vinegar and spices.
• Bold Neglecting Chili Oil Balance: Adding too much chili oil without tasting can overwhelm the dish. Start with a smaller amount, adjusting according to your heat preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow noodles and lamb to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Cumin Lamb Noodles

• Freeze in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 2 months.
• Label containers with date for easy identification later.

Reheating Cumin Lamb Noodles

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, covering with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cumin Lamb Noodles.

How do I make homemade hand-pulled noodles?

Homemade hand-pulled noodles require flour, water, and some kneading. Combine flour and water into a dough, then knead until smooth. Rest the dough before pulling into thin strands.

Can I substitute lamb with another meat?

Yes! You can use chicken or beef as alternatives while keeping similar cooking times for tenderness.

What is the best way to adjust spiciness?

Start by adding small amounts of chili oil during cooking. Taste as you go until you reach your desired spice level.

How do I store leftover Cumin Lamb Noodles?

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Certainly! Substitute lamb with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of any meat-based options.

Final Thoughts

Cumin Lamb Noodles bring bold flavors together in a quick and satisfying dish. It’s versatile enough for customization—add more vegetables or adjust spices to suit your tastes. Try this recipe today; it’s bound to become a favorite!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Cumin Lamb Noodles

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Experience the delightful taste of Cumin Lamb Noodles, a dish that combines tender lamb with homemade hand-pulled noodles, all enveloped in a rich and spicy chili oil sauce. This flavorful noodle dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or to impress guests with your culinary skills. With bold flavors from cumin and Sichuan peppercorns, this meal is not only quick to prepare—ready in just 30 minutes—but also offers an unforgettable taste experience. Elevate your dining with this easy recipe that brings restaurant-quality flavors right to your kitchen.

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Ingredients

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• Homemade hand-pulled noodles (or wide wheat noodles)
• Thinly sliced lamb (about 1 lb)
• 2 tablespoons whole cumin seeds
• 2 teaspoons sichuan peppercorns
• 1 teaspoon whole coriander seeds
• 1 tablespoon apple vinegar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon peanut oil (or vegetable oil)
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 1/2 cup homemade chili oil
• 3 tablespoons chinkiang vinegar
• 4 teaspoons light soy sauce
• 4 teaspoons dark soy sauce
• 8 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 inches ginger (minced)
• 1 red onion (thinly sliced)
• 1 hot green chili (sliced)
• 1/2 bunch cilantro (chopped)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the noodle dough and roll it out thinly.
2. Boil water in a large pot for cooking the noodles.
3. Marinate the lamb with spices and vinegar for at least 10 minutes.
4. Stir-fry the garlic, ginger, marinated lamb, onion, and green chili in a hot wok.
5. Combine stir-fried ingredients with chili oil and sauces.
6. Cook the noodles until al dente, then drain.
7. Toss the cooked noodles with the lamb mixture and serve garnished with cilantro.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stir-frying
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (300g)
• Calories: 495
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 820mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 26g
• Cholesterol: 75mg