The Cumin Lamb Noodles Recipe is a vibrant, mouthwatering dish that marries tender, spiced lamb with thick, chewy noodles for an unforgettable meal. Bursting with the warm, aromatic flavors of cumin and the subtle heat of chili flakes, this recipe captures the rustic charm of Northwestern Chinese cuisine in every bite. Whether you crave something hearty for dinner or want to impress friends with a flavorful stir-fry, these noodles bring a perfect balance of spice, texture, and freshness that makes your taste buds sing.

Cumin Lamb Noodles Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple yet powerful, the ingredients for this Cumin Lamb Noodles Recipe are carefully chosen to build layers of flavor, texture, and stunning color. Each component plays a crucial role—from the juicy lamb slices to the aromatic spices that bring this dish to life.

Lamb shoulder or leg (1 pound, thinly sliced): Choose tender cuts that cook quickly for juicy, flavorful meat.
Thick wheat noodles (12 ounces): Hand-pulled preferred for authentic texture but store-bought works too.
Soy sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds savory depth and a touch of saltiness to the marinade.
Shaoxing wine or dry sherry (1 tablespoon): Enhances aroma and tenderizes the lamb.
Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): Helps the lamb develop a silky coating when cooked.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances all the flavors perfectly.
Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds mild pungency, complementing the cumin.
Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons): The ideal neutral oil for high-heat stir-frying.
Cumin seeds (1 tablespoon): Toasted to release their earthy, nutty aroma.
Ground cumin (1 teaspoon): Intensifies the cumin flavor, anchoring the dish.
Chili flakes (1/2 teaspoon): Adjustable heat that brings a lively kick without overpowering.
Garlic cloves (4, minced): Adds punchy warmth and fragrance.
Ginger (1 tablespoon, minced): Brings fresh zest and slight spiciness.
Red onion (1/2 large, sliced): Offers sweetness and crunch.
Red bell pepper (1/2, sliced): Adds vibrant color and a touch of crispness.
Scallions (2, cut into 1-inch pieces): Bright, mild onion flavor to finish.
Fresh cilantro (for garnish): Provides a fresh, herbaceous contrast at serving.

How to Make Cumin Lamb Noodles Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Lamb

Start by tossing your thinly sliced lamb in a mix of soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, cornstarch, salt, and black pepper. This simple marinade not only infuses flavor but also tenderizes the meat, helping to lock in the natural juices. Let the lamb soak in these flavors for at least 15 minutes to ensure each bite is packed with savory goodness.

Step 2: Prepare the Noodles

While the lamb marinates, cook your thick wheat noodles according to the package instructions or until they reach that perfect chewy texture. Drain them well and set aside. The noodles act as the hearty base of the dish, ready to soak up all the delicious lamb and spice in the stir-fry.

Step 3: Toast and Sear

Heat vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat, and toss in the cumin seeds. Toasting these seeds for about 30 seconds wakes up their nutty aroma that defines the dish’s character. Immediately add the marinated lamb and stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes until the meat is browned on the outside but still tender.

Step 4: Add Aromatics and Vegetables

Push the lamb to one side of the pan and add minced garlic, fresh ginger, chili flakes, sliced red onion, and bell pepper. Keep stirring for another 2 to 3 minutes until the vegetables soften slightly but retain a bit of crunch, creating a beautiful contrast with the tender lamb.

Step 5: Combine Noodles and Seasonings

Now for the final magic: toss in the cooked noodles along with ground cumin and scallions. Stir everything vigorously for 1 to 2 minutes so the noodles are evenly coated in the fragrant spices and all the ingredients meld together into a harmonious stir-fry ready to impress.

How to Serve Cumin Lamb Noodles Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh cilantro sprinkled on top adds a burst of herbaceous brightness that cuts through the rich cumin and lamb flavors wonderfully. You can also add an extra sprinkle of chili flakes for those who relish a bit more heat or a light squeeze of lime for subtle acidity that complements the spices.

Side Dishes

Pair your Cumin Lamb Noodles Recipe with simple sides like a crisp cucumber salad, steamed pak choi, or even pickled radishes. These fresh and tangy accompaniments balance the warm, hearty noodles and add refreshing layers to the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, serve the noodles in individual shallow bowls, garnished with cilantro and scallions so every guest can appreciate the vibrant colors. Alternatively, plate the dish family-style on a large platter, encouraging everyone to dig in and enjoy the communal experience that truly honors this warming, authentic dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers of this Cumin Lamb Noodles Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making for an even tastier meal the next day.

Freezing

While fresh is best, you can freeze the lamb (before combining with noodles) separately by sealing it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Once thawed, cook and combine with freshly boiled noodles for the best texture.

Reheating

To reheat, gently stir-fry the leftovers in a hot pan or microwave them, adding a splash of water or stock to prevent drying out. Be sure to reheat thoroughly so every bite is warm and inviting, just like the first time.

FAQs

Can I use beef or pork instead of lamb?

Absolutely! While lamb gives this dish its signature flavor, beef or pork are excellent substitutes that still work well with the cumin and spices, providing a delicious twist.

What type of noodles works best for this recipe?

Hand-pulled thick wheat noodles offer the most authentic texture, but if you cannot find them, any thick wheat noodles or even udon noodles will do fine, soaking up the flavors just as beautifully.

Is this dish very spicy?

The chili flakes add a mild to moderate heat depending on how much you use. You can easily adjust the amount to suit your spice tolerance, making the dish as gentle or fiery as you like.

Can I prepare parts of the recipe in advance?

Yes! Marinate the lamb a few hours ahead or even overnight for deeper flavor, and cook the noodles in advance. Then, just toss everything together quickly when ready to serve.

Are there any dietary modifications for this recipe?

This recipe is naturally dairy-free. If you want to make it gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari and use gluten-free noodles, though the texture will differ from the original.

Final Thoughts

This Cumin Lamb Noodles Recipe is an absolute joy to make and share. Its vibrant spices, tender meat, and satisfying noodles combine to create a dish that feels like a warm hug from the inside. Give it a try—it will quickly become one of your go-to favorites whenever you want a little culinary adventure in your kitchen.

Cumin Lamb Noodles Recipe

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4.3 from 83 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Lactose

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Description

Cumin Lamb Noodles is a flavorful Northwestern Chinese dish featuring tender stir-fried thinly sliced lamb, aromatic cumin seeds, and thick wheat noodles combined with savory soy and Shaoxing wine marinades. This quick and easy main course balances spicy, fragrant, and savory elements, topped with fresh cilantro for a vibrant finish.

Ingredients

Scale

Lamb Marinade

1 pound lamb shoulder or leg, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Noodles

12 ounces thick wheat noodles (hand-pulled or store-bought)

Stir-fry Ingredients

2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 tablespoon cumin seeds
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to heat preference)
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, minced
1/2 large red onion, sliced
1/2 red bell pepper, sliced
2 scallions, cut into 1-inch pieces
Fresh cilantro, for garnish

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Instructions

Marinate Lamb: In a medium bowl, toss the thinly sliced lamb with soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, cornstarch, salt, and black pepper. Allow it to marinate for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors penetrate the meat.
Cook Noodles: Prepare the thick wheat noodles according to the package directions. Once cooked, drain well and set aside to keep ready for the stir-fry.
Toast Cumin Seeds: Heat vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat. Add cumin seeds and toast them for about 30 seconds until they release their aromatic fragrance.
Stir-fry Lamb: Add the marinated lamb to the wok and stir-fry vigorously for 2 to 3 minutes until the lamb browns and begins to cook through. Push the meat to one side of the wok to make space.
Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables: Add minced garlic, ginger, chili flakes, sliced red onion, and red bell pepper to the emptier side of the wok. Stir-fry these ingredients together with the lamb for another 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften without losing their crunch.
Add Noodles and Seasoning: Incorporate the cooked noodles, ground cumin, and scallions into the wok. Toss all components together carefully for 1 to 2 minutes until everything is thoroughly combined and heated through.
Serve: Plate the noodles and lamb mixture while hot. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a bright, herbal finishing touch. Optionally, add a dash of dark soy sauce or a few drops of sesame oil for extra depth of flavor.

Notes

For enhanced taste, drizzle dark soy sauce or sesame oil at the end of cooking.
If lamb is unavailable, substitute with thinly sliced beef or pork.
Hand-pulled noodles offer the most authentic texture, but any thick wheat noodles will work well.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stir-Frying
Cuisine: Chinese (Northwestern)