Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe air was filled with the warm aroma of toasting spices as I embarked on my culinary adventure to make Cumin Lamb Noodles. This traditional Chinese dish, inspired by the renowned Xi’an Famous Foods, is a celebration of hearty, juicy lamb enveloped in a spicy, chili oil sauce that dances on your palate. The real star here, though, is the homemade hand-pulled noodles—an unparalleled texture that brings an authentic touch to your meal. Not only is this method an impressive skill that rivals any restaurant dish, but it also guarantees a delightful dining experience that’s perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself during a cozy weekend at home. Are you ready to roll up your sleeves and indulge in this satisfying feast? Why are Cumin Lamb Noodles a must-try? **Irresistible **Cumin Lamb Noodles: These noodles bring a flavor explosion that performs like a restaurant dish at home. Juicy lamb mingles with a spicy chili oil sauce—perfect for those craving something indulgent. **Homemade *hand-pulled noodles*: Experience a delightful texture that truly elevates your meal. It’s an impressive skill that makes every bite unforgettable. **Versatile *ingredient options*: Whether you prefer lamb, beef, or chicken, this dish adapts to your taste. You can even go gluten-free with rice noodles! **Make-ahead *marinating tips*: Enhance flavor by marinating overnight, allowing you to savor the rich taste with less day-of prep! **Crowd-pleasing *dinner option*: Delight your family or guests with this bold meal that will leave them buzzing with satisfaction! Cumin Lamb Noodles Ingredients For the Hand-Pulled Noodles • All-purpose flour – Use bread flour for extra chewiness. • Water – Adjust the amount based on humidity and flour type for perfect dough consistency. • Salt – Essential for flavoring, don’t skip this step. For the Lamb Marinade • Lamb (loin or shoulder, 1 lb) – Opt for well-marbled cuts for the best tenderness. • Shaoxing wine – Enhances the flavor; dry sherry is a good substitute. • Salt – Essential for seasoning; it helps tenderize the meat. • Peanut oil – Preferred for stir-frying due to its high smoke point. • Cornstarch (2 tsp) – Helps tenderize the lamb during marination. For the Spicy Sauce • Cumin seeds – Toast for a warm, earthy aroma; whole seeds are best. • Sichuan peppercorns – Brings a unique numbing effect; you can swap with black pepper. • Coriander seeds – Complements the cumin; use whole for more flavor. • Homemade chili oil (½ cup) – Adjust the amount based on your spice preference. • Chinkiang vinegar – Adds a tangy kick; use rice vinegar if needed. • Soy sauce (light & dark, 4 tsp each) – Provides depth of flavor and a beautiful color. For the Aromatics and Vegetables • Garlic (8 cloves) – Freshly minced garlic enhances the sauce’s flavor. • Ginger (2 inches) – Adds warmth and spiciness. • Red onion (1) – Sweetness to balance the dish; yellow or white onions work too. • Hot green chili (1) – Adjust to your heat level; omit if you prefer a milder dish. • Cilantro (½ bunch) – Fresh herb for a burst of flavor and garnish. For Serving • Chili oil – A drizzle for added spice right before serving. • Sliced cucumber salad – A refreshing side that complements the rich noodles beautifully. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cumin Lamb Noodles Step 1: Prep Ingredients Begin by preparing the homemade noodle dough to ensure it rests properly. In the meantime, fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil on high heat. This water will be vital for cooking the hand-pulled noodles later, so keep an eye on it while you continue with your meal preparation. Step 2: Toast Spices While the water heats, toast the cumin seeds, Sichuan peppercorns, and coriander seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir continuously for about 3-4 minutes until fragrant and golden. Once toasted, transfer the spices to a mortar and grind them into a fine powder. This freshly ground spice blend will elevate the flavor of your Cumin Lamb Noodles. Step 3: Marinate Lamb In a mixing bowl, combine the lamb with Shaoxing wine, salt, peanut oil, and half of the ground spice mixture. Ensure every piece of lamb is well coated and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature. This step is essential for tenderizing the meat and infusing it with flavor, making your noodle dish truly irresistible. Step 4: Cook Lamb Heat a large skillet or wok over high heat until it’s smoking hot. Add a splash of peanut oil, then carefully introduce the marinated lamb in a single layer. Sear for about 3–4 minutes until browned and caramelized, stirring in minced garlic and ginger halfway through for aromatic richness. The high heat helps develop a beautiful crust on the lamb. Step 5: Add Vegetables Once the lamb is nicely browned, stir in the sliced red onion and hot green chili. After about 1-2 minutes, sprinkle in the remaining ground spices, followed by the soy sauce, homemade chili oil, and Chinkiang vinegar. Stir-fry all the ingredients together for another 30 seconds until the onions are softened and the flavors meld beautifully. Step 6: Finish Lamb Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in fresh cilantro for a burst of color and flavor. Transfer the Cumin Lamb mixture to a serving plate to prevent further cooking. This step keeps your lamb tender and juicy, ready to be paired perfectly with the noodles. Step 7: Boil Noodles By now, your water should be boiling vigorously. Carefully add the prepared hand-pulled noodles into the pot and cook according to the noodle’s thickness, typically around 2–5 minutes. Keep stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, and once the noodles are al dente and slightly chewy, drain them promptly in a colander. Step 8: Serve To assemble your dish, place a generous portion of the cooked noodles into individual bowls. Top each with the succulent Cumin Lamb mixture and drizzle with additional homemade chili oil and a splash of vinegar to enhance the flavors. Serve immediately and relish every bite of this delightful homemade feast! Expert Tips for Cumin Lamb Noodles Select Quality Lamb: Choose well-marbled cuts like loin or shoulder for tender, juicy bites. Avoid tough cuts to ensure a delightful eating experience. Toast Spices Properly: Take the time to toast and grind your cumin and Sichuan peppercorns for maximum flavor. This step enhances the overall taste of your Cumin Lamb Noodles. Prep Before Cooking: Have all ingredients ready before you start cooking. The stir-frying process is quick, and being organized ensures a seamless cooking experience. Perfect Noodle Texture: Aim for slightly chewy noodles. Adjust cooking times based on thickness, and stir frequently to prevent sticking when boiling the noodles. Customize Spice Levels: Feel free to adjust the amount of chili oil and hot green chili to suit your taste preferences. This way, you can make the dish exactly how you like it! Marinate for Flavor: Let the lamb sit in the marinade for at least 15 minutes, or even overnight for a richer flavor. This step is crucial for tender and flavorful meat. What to Serve with Cumin Lamb Noodles Elevate your dining experience with these delightful side dishes that perfectly complement the mesmerizing flavors of your homemade cumin lamb noodles. Light Cucumber Salad: A refreshing crunch that cools the palate, perfectly balancing the rich and bold flavors of the noodles. Toss slices of cucumber with a splash of rice vinegar and sesame oil for a quick, zesty side. Steamed Bok Choy: This tender-crisp vegetable brings a subtle earthiness that enhances the dish’s overall taste. Drizzle with a bit of soy sauce for added flavor and serve it alongside your noodle bowl for a pop of green. Savory Chinese Scallion Pancakes: Their flaky texture and warm, comforting flavors make them an irresistible pairing. Serve these crispy pancakes on the side for a satisfying bite that complements the sumptuous lamb and noodles beautifully. Garlic Broccoli Stir-Fry: A vibrant and nutritious addition, garlic broccoli has a tender-crisp bite that pairs wonderfully with spicy dishes. Sauté with soy sauce and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a tasty contrast to the cumin lamb noodles. Chili Oil Dumplings: For those craving extra heat, these delectable dumplings filled with savory goodness lend an exciting element to the meal. They are best served with a soy-vinegar dipping sauce, echoing the flavors in your main dish. Fruity Lychee Iced Tea: Offer a refreshing beverage to cleanse the palate. The sweet floral notes of lychee create a delicious contrast to the dish’s spiciness—a perfect drink to sip on while enjoying your flavorful feast. Sesame Noodles: If you want to stay noodle-centric, a simple plate of sesame noodles offers a creamy, nutty contrast. Toss cooked noodles with sesame oil, soy sauce, and sliced scallions, making for a comforting side dish that’s sure to please. Mango Sticky Rice: For a sweet finish, treat yourself to a taste of this popular dessert. The creaminess of coconut milk paired with the sweetness of fresh mango creates a delightful conclusion to the rich meal. How to Store and Freeze Cumin Lamb Noodles Fridge: Store leftover Cumin Lamb Noodles in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the noodles and lamb separate if possible to maintain texture. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the lamb and sauce together in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Noodles are best made fresh but can be frozen if necessary. Reheating: Thaw frozen lamb in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce. Noodles can be reheated in boiling water for a quick warm-up. Make-Ahead Tips: Consider marinating the lamb overnight for enhanced flavor; just remember that freshly made noodles are the star for serving! Variations & Substitutions for Cumin Lamb Noodles Feel free to play around with these ideas to make your Cumin Lamb Noodles even more delightful and tailored to your taste! Chicken Swap: Replace lamb with chicken thighs for a lighter alternative; just marinate the same way for juicy results. Chicken offers a subtle flavor that balances beautifully with bold spices, making each bite just as delectable. Beef Option: Use thinly sliced beef, such as flank steak, to change up the protein while keeping the dish hearty and satisfying. This variation adds a different texture, bringing a deliciously rich flavor profile to the table. Vegetarian Delight: For a meat-free dish, substitute the lamb with marinated tofu or tempeh; sauté until golden for a tasty twist. This option allows you to maintain the complex flavors of the dish while offering a fresh spin that veggie lovers will adore! Gluten-Free Noodles: Switch to fresh or dry rice noodles for a gluten-free version; adjust cooking time accordingly for perfect texture. These noodles provide a light and chewy alternative, creating a unique version of this beloved dish without compromising taste. Flavorful Additions: Toss in colorful bell peppers, bok choy, or snow peas for extra veggies and vibrant color in your dish. Edible art is created as you mix greens with the rich lamb flavor, making each bite a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. Heat Adjustment: Scale back the hot green chili or substitute with sweet bell peppers for a milder version perfect for families. This adjustment ensures everyone can enjoy this meal while still embracing the traditional flavors that make it special! Spice Level Boost: Increase the amount of homemade chili oil or add a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick if you crave heat. This option keeps the essence of the dish while allowing spice lovers to indulge in maximum flavor bliss! Herb Variations: Try mint or basil instead of cilantro for a unique fresh herb twist that complements the dish beautifully. The vibrant herb flavors create a refreshing contrast with the earthy cumin, making each bite exciting and new. Explore these variations to create your perfect bowl of Cumin Lamb Noodles that resonates with your unique tastes and cravings! And if you’re interested in learning more ways to elevate your homemade meals, don’t miss out on our guide to adding flavor to homemade dishes or check out tips for perfectly cooking meat. Make Ahead Options These Cumin Lamb Noodles are perfect for meal prep, saving you time during busy weeknights! You can marinate the lamb in the seasoning mixture for up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flavors to meld beautifully. The hand-pulled noodles can also be prepared ahead; however, it’s best to cook them fresh right before serving to maintain their delightful texture. Store the marinated lamb tightly covered in the fridge, and when you’re ready to enjoy, simply cook the lamb and noodles as directed. With these tips, you’ll create a delicious, gourmet meal with less effort on the day of serving! Cumin Lamb Noodles Recipe FAQs How do I select the best lamb for the Cumin Lamb Noodles? Absolutely! When choosing lamb, look for well-marbled cuts like loin or shoulder to ensure tenderness and juiciness. Avoid lean cuts as they tend to dry out during cooking. A good guideline is to choose lamb that’s bright red with minimal connective tissue for the best eating experience. What’s the best way to store leftovers of Cumin Lamb Noodles? You should store leftover Cumin Lamb Noodles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For optimal texture, keep the noodles and lamb separate if possible—this helps prevent the noodles from becoming soggy. Can I freeze Cumin Lamb Noodles? Yes, you can! To freeze, pack the lamb and sauce together in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. While the noodles are best enjoyed fresh because they can lose texture when frozen, you can also freeze pre-cooked noodles by cooling them first and then packing them tightly. What should I do if my homemade noodles turn out too chewy? Very! If your noodles are overly chewy, it’s likely due to overworking the dough or an incorrect water-to-flour ratio. Next time, knead gently and allow the dough to rest adequately (at least 30 minutes) before rolling out. When boiling, ensure you watch carefully and aim for an al dente texture, which can help achieve that perfect chewiness. Are there any dietary considerations for the ingredients in Cumin Lamb Noodles? Yes, indeed! This dish contains common allergens like gluten from the noodles and soy sauce. If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, feel free to substitute the noodles with rice noodles for a gluten-free option. Be cautious with the chili oil if you’re serving pets or people sensitive to spice, as some spices can be harmful to animals. How can I enhance the flavor of the lamb further during marination? I recommend marinating your lamb overnight for a richer flavor! Just mix the lamb with all marinade ingredients and let it sit in the refrigerator. For an added depth, you can include a bit of garlic or ginger in the marinade. Remember to let it sit at room temperature for at least 15 minutes before cooking; this gives time for the flavors to meld beautifully! Irresistible Cumin Lamb Noodles That Will Wow Your Taste Buds Cumin Lamb Noodles are a flavor explosion with juicy lamb and homemade hand-pulled noodles. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsMarinating Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: BeefCuisine: ChineseCalories: 650 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Hand-Pulled Noodles2 cups All-purpose flour Use bread flour for extra chewiness.3/4 cup Water Adjust based on humidity and flour type.1 tsp Salt Essential for flavoring.For the Lamb Marinade1 lb Lamb (loin or shoulder) Opt for well-marbled cuts.2 tbsp Shaoxing wine Enhances the flavor.1 tsp Salt Essential for seasoning.2 tbsp Peanut oil Preferred for stir-frying.2 tsp Cornstarch Helps tenderize the lamb.For the Spicy Sauce1 tbsp Cumin seeds Toast for warm aroma.1 tbsp Sichuan peppercorns Brings a unique numbing effect.1 tbsp Coriander seeds Compliments the cumin.1/2 cup Homemade chili oil Adjust based on spice preference.2 tbsp Chinkiang vinegar Adds a tangy kick.4 tsp Soy sauce (light & dark) Provides depth of flavor.For the Aromatics and Vegetables8 cloves Garlic Freshly minced.2 inches Ginger Adds warmth and spiciness.1 medium Red onion Sweetness to balance the dish.1 whole Hot green chili Adjust to your heat level.1/2 bunch Cilantro Fresh herb for garnish.For Servingto taste Chili oil Drizzle for added spice.1 cup Sliced cucumber salad A refreshing side. Equipment Large PotSkillet or wokMortar and pestlecolander Method Step-by-Step InstructionsBegin by preparing the homemade noodle dough to ensure it rests properly. In the meantime, fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil.Toast the cumin seeds, Sichuan peppercorns, and coriander seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes until fragrant and golden.Combine the lamb with Shaoxing wine, salt, peanut oil, and half of the ground spice mixture in a mixing bowl and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.Heat a large skillet over high heat until smoking. Add a splash of peanut oil and sear the marinated lamb for about 3–4 minutes until browned.Stir in the sliced red onion and hot green chili, then add the remaining ground spices, soy sauce, homemade chili oil, and Chinkiang vinegar.Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in fresh cilantro. Transfer to a serving plate.Add the prepared hand-pulled noodles into the pot of boiling water and cook for about 2–5 minutes.Place a generous portion of the cooked noodles in bowls, top with the Cumin Lamb mixture, and drizzle with chili oil and a splash of vinegar. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 10gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 1000mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 4mg NotesFor best results, marinate the lamb overnight for enhanced flavor. Cook noodles fresh for optimal texture. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
