Name: Spicy Cumin Lamb Biang Biang Noodles
Prep time: 180 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 190 min
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups bread flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup water (plus 1 tablespoon/15ml); 8 oz fatty lamb shoulder or chuck (thinly sliced); 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (plus 3 tablespoons/45 ml, divided); 1 tablespoon rice wine (plus 2 tablespoons/30 ml, divided); 1 teaspoon cornstarch; 1 1/2 tablespoons cumin seeds; 2 teaspoons coriander seeds; 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper; 1 tablespoon grated ginger; 2 units scallions (chopped, white parts and green parts separated); 7 cloves garlic (minced); 1 long hot red or green chili pepper (de-seeded and thinly sliced); 3 tablespoons chili oil (preferably homemade); 1 teaspoon sugar; 1 teaspoon black vinegar or rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 small red onion (thinly sliced); 1/2 cup finely diced Chinese celery or regular celery (optional); 3 leaves cabbage (roughly chopped); 1/2 cup garlic chives (roughly chopped, optional)

Introduction to Spicy Cumin Lamb Biang Biang Noodles

Biang biang noodles are truly a delight for anyone with a passion for food. Originating from Shaanxi Province in Northern China, these handmade noodles are wide, thick, and have a chewy texture that perfectly captures bold flavors. The standout feature of biang biang noodles is their ability to cling to sauces, making every bite a flavor-packed experience.

Why Biang Biang Noodles are a Must-Try for Food Lovers

If you appreciate the art of cooking and savoring diverse cuisines, these spicy cumin lamb biang biang noodles should be on your culinary bucket list. The delightful, chunky texture of the noodles provides the perfect base for the aromatic lamb, garlic, and spices that come together to create a symphony of flavors.

Additionally, the preparation process can be a fun group activity. It’s a great way to connect with friends or family while enjoying the hands-on experience of making the noodles from scratch. Not to mention, impressing your guests with a traditional dish that’s bursting with flavor and character is worth every minute spent in the kitchen!

For more information on the history of biang biang noodles, check out this article that dives into their origins. Don’t miss out on this unique dish that’s guaranteed to spice up your weeknight meals!

Ingredients for Spicy Cumin Lamb Biang Biang Noodles

Creating delicious spicy cumin lamb biang biang noodles starts with a few essential ingredients that you can easily find at your local grocery store.

Essential ingredients for the noodles

Bread flour: 1 ½ cups provides the needed texture for those delightful, hand-pulled noodles.
Salt: Just a pinch (¼ teaspoon) enhances flavor.
Water: ½ cup plus 1 tablespoon ensures your dough reaches the right consistency.

Key ingredients for the lamb and sauce

Lamb shoulder: 8 oz. of fatty lamb adds richness and depth.
Vegetable oil: Start with 1 tablespoon for marinating, then 3 tablespoons for cooking.
Rice vinegar: 1 teaspoon gives a tangy kick to the sauce.
Chili oil: 3 tablespoons (preferably homemade) brings the heat.
Spices: Don’t forget 1 ½ tablespoons of cumin seeds and 2 teaspoons of coriander seeds for that quintessential flavor profile.

These ingredients combine to create a dish that’s not only filling but also bursting with flavors. Happy cooking!

Step-by-Step Preparation of Spicy Cumin Lamb Biang Biang Noodles

Making Spicy Cumin Lamb Biang Biang Noodles may seem daunting, but trust me, it's an incredibly rewarding experience. Let's dive into each step and create something delicious together!

Make the noodle dough

Start by gathering your ingredients. In a mixing bowl, combine:

1 ½ cups bread flour
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup + 1 tablespoon water

Mix these ingredients until they form a scraggly dough. Attach your bowl to a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook and knead on low speed for around 20 minutes. The goal is to achieve a smooth, elastic texture that doesn’t stick to the bowl. If you’re struggling with the dough being too dry or too wet, adjust with water or flour as needed. After kneading, cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rest for about 1 to 2 hours. This resting period is crucial for that perfect chewy texture.

Prepare the marinated lamb

While your dough is resting, let’s focus on the lamb. Thinly slice 8 oz. of fatty lamb shoulder or chuck, then combine it with:

1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 tablespoon rice wine substitute (like apple cider vinegar)
1 teaspoon cornstarch

Let this mixture marinate while you prepare the spices and other ingredients. This step enhances the lamb's flavor and tenderness, ensuring each bite is juicy and delectable.

Toast the spices

Next, in a clean, dry pan over medium heat, toast 1 ½ tablespoons cumin seeds and 2 teaspoons coriander seeds along with ¼ teaspoon ground white pepper. Keep an eye on these spices, toasting them for about 5 minutes until they’re fragrant. Grinding these seeds coarsely will amplify their flavors, making your sauce irresistible.

Shape the biang biang noodles

Once the dough has rested, it’s time to shape the noodles. On a lightly oiled surface, flatten the dough into a rectangle about 10 inches long and a half-inch thick. Cut this into 10 strips and then flatten each strip further using your palm.

Now comes the fun part: gently slap the noodles against the counter while stretching them to form long, wide noodles. Don’t worry if they’re not perfectly uniform; that’s what gives them character! Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and if you have any leftovers, cover them to prevent drying.

Cook the noodles and prepare the sauce

Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. These noodles will need about 90 seconds to cook, so be ready to multitask!

In a wok, heat 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Start by sautéing grated ginger and chopped scallion whites for a minute, then add minced garlic and sliced chili pepper. After that, toss in the marinated lamb and stir-fry until browned. Quickly add your toasted spice mix along with the chili oil, sugar, black vinegar, soy sauce, and any other vegetables like thinly sliced red onion or chopped celery.

Once your noodles cook, toss them with the sauce, along with any cabbage and garlic chives you’d like to include. Mixing everything well ensures that every bite bursts with flavor. Sometimes, getting your hands a bit messy is a good thing!

Now sit down, enjoy the fruits of your labor, and savor the spicy cumin lamb biang biang noodles you've created. You’ve earned it!

Variations on Spicy Cumin Lamb Biang Biang Noodles

Vegetarian Alternative with Mushrooms

If you're seeking a meat-free option that doesn't skimp on flavor, consider substituting the lamb with a medley of mushrooms. Varieties like shiitake, portobello, and oyster mushrooms not only absorb the spicy cumin flavors beautifully but also provide a satisfying, umami-rich experience. Simply sauté your mushrooms in vegetable oil, adding your favorite spices and aromatics to mirror the original sauce.

Gluten-Free Noodle Options Using Rice Flour

For those on a gluten-free diet, fear not! You can easily create delicious biang biang noodles using rice flour. Combine rice flour and water until you achieve a dough-like consistency, then follow the same hand-stretching technique as traditional noodles. This alternative not only caters to gluten sensitivities but also introduces a delightful chewiness that pairs perfectly with the spicy cumin lamb biang biang noodles.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Spicy Cumin Lamb Biang Biang Noodles

Tips for perfecting homemade noodles

When crafting your biang biang noodles, remember that practice makes perfect. Make sure to knead until your dough is smooth and elastic—this helps create that signature chewy texture. If you're struggling with stretching, let the dough rest a bit longer. Don't rush; letting it relax improves flexibility!

How to enhance the flavor of the sauce

For your spicy cumin lamb biang biang noodles, the sauce is where the magic happens. Toasting your cumin and coriander seeds beforehand unlocks a deeper flavor—this step is crucial! Adding a touch of chili oil enhances the heat and aroma, making your dish unforgettable. Experiment with fresh herbs or add a splash of extra vinegar for brightness.

For more tips, check out sites like Serious Eats or The Woks of Life. Happy cooking!

Serving Suggestions for Spicy Cumin Lamb Biang Biang Noodles

Pairing Your Noodles with Different Garnishes

To elevate your spicy cumin lamb biang biang noodles, think beyond just the sauce! Fresh garnishes can really enhance the flavors.

Herbs: Top with fresh cilantro or mint for a burst of freshness.
Crunch: Add crispy shallots or fried garlic for that satisfying crunch.
Heat: Extra slices of chili can kick it up a notch if you love spice.

Suggested Side Dishes to Complement Your Meal

Complete your dining experience by pairing your spicy cumin lamb biang biang noodles with complementary side dishes.

Pickled Vegetables: A tangy cucumber or radish salad will balance the heat.
Stir-Fried Greens: Choose quick-cooking options like bok choy or spinach for color and nutrition.
Soup: A light broth, like a basic wonton soup, can serve as a warm appetizer to start your meal.

Embrace creativity, and mix and match these ideas to enjoy a well-rounded meal!

Time Breakdown for Spicy Cumin Lamb Biang Biang Noodles

Preparation time
Get ready to roll up your sleeves! Making spicy cumin lamb biang biang noodles requires about 3 hours. This includes time for the dough to rest and all those delightful spices to blend their flavors.

Cooking time
Once your ingredients are ready, the cooking process is pretty swift, taking only about 10 minutes to whip up that aromatic sauce and cook your noodles.

Total time
In just under 3 hours and 10 minutes, you’ll have a delicious dish that’s sure to impress. Perfect for a cozy weekend or a special dinner!

Nutritional Facts for Spicy Cumin Lamb Biang Biang Noodles

Understanding the nutritional profile of Spicy Cumin Lamb Biang Biang Noodles can enhance your cooking experience and health choices.

Calories per serving

Each serving packs approximately 425 calories, making it a hearty meal option.

Protein content

With 19 grams of protein per serving, these noodles offer a good balance of carbohydrates and proteins to keep you energized throughout the day.

Essential vitamins and minerals

You’ll also benefit from vital nutrients, including:

Vitamin A: 430 IU (important for eye health)
Vitamin C: 15.3 mg (supports your immune system)
Calcium: 88 mg (great for strong bones)

These nutritional facts showcase how spicy cumin lamb biang biang noodles not only satisfies your cravings but also nourishes your body. For more insights on the health benefits of spices like cumin, check out Healthline.

FAQs about Spicy Cumin Lamb Biang Biang Noodles

Can I substitute the lamb for beef?
Absolutely! If you're not a fan of lamb or just prefer beef, feel free to swap it out. Ground beef or thinly sliced flank steak both work wonderfully in this dish. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will shift slightly, but the final dish will still be delicious.

How spicy are these noodles?
The spicy cumin lamb biang biang noodles definitely bring the heat! However, the spice level can be adjusted easily. If you’re sensitive to spice, consider reducing the amount of chili oil or de-seeding the chili pepper for a milder version. Taste as you go, and you can always add more heat later if desired!

Can I prepare the noodles in advance?
Yes! You can make the noodles ahead of time and store them in your refrigerator for a day or two. Just make sure to cover them well to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to serve, simply drop the noodles into boiling water to reheat before tossing them with your spicy cumin lamb sauce. Enjoy a quick and satisfying meal with minimal effort!

Conclusion on Spicy Cumin Lamb Biang Biang Noodles

In summary, spicy cumin lamb biang biang noodles are a delightful culinary adventure that offers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Whether you’re impressing friends at a dinner party or treating yourself to a comforting meal at home, this dish is sure to satisfy! Enjoy every bite!