Cumin Lamb Skewers
The Chinese have a long and rich tradition of preparing and enjoying delicious delicacies that are popular all over the world. One such delicacy is cumin lamb skewers, a mouthwatering dish that serves as an ideal accompaniment for drinks, or as a starter for a more elaborate feast.
As the name suggests, cumin lamb skewers are lamb meat pieces, marinated with a blend of spices and then skewered for grilling or barbequing. These skewers are a popular street food in China and are also found in restaurants across the country. This savory dish originated in the Xinjiang province of China, and it has since spread to other regions in the country, evolving and adapting to local tastes and ingredients.
The dish’s central ingredient, lamb meat, is an essential protein source in the Chinese diet, and it is a favored ingredient in traditional Chinese cuisine. The lamb meat used for making the skewers must be cut into small pieces, and the fat trimmed away from the meat to ensure it cooks evenly. The spices used in the marinade include cumin, chili powder, and Sichuan peppercorns, which are then mixed with garlic, ginger, and soy sauce to create a potent and flavorful blend.
The robust flavors from the cumin and chili powder create a smoky and spicy taste, while the white pepper gives it a heat that lingers on the tongue, followed by the refreshing kick from vinegar or lime juice. The addition of ginger and garlic adds another layer of complexity and depth to the taste while soy sauce provides a depth of umami flavor. These spices not only make the lamb meat tasty but also give the dish a warm and comforting aroma that can be enjoyed by anyone, regardless of their culinary preferences.
The skewers are then cooked over an open flame or grill, giving them a striking charred flavor and texture. The meat is tender and juicy, with a crispy exterior that adds an appealing crunch. The lamb’s natural sweetness elevates the savory and robust flavor profile, creating a well-rounded and balanced taste that can make anyone’s taste buds dance.
In Chinese cuisine, food is often served in communal settings where sharing dishes is highly encouraged. Therefore, the cumin lamb skewers are perfect for social gatherings and parties. The skewers are easy to make, can be prepared in large batches, and can be enjoyed by a diverse range of people.
The dish is not only popular in China but has gained popularity worldwide, and it’s often found on menus of Asian restaurants. The cumin lamb skewers have evolved past their roots in China and are now available with different variations of the spice blend, accommodating the spice tolerance levels for different cultures and palates.
In conclusion, cumin lamb skewers are a delicious and unique way to experience Chinese cuisine. The tender and juicy lamb meat, combined with the robust flavors of cumin, chili powder, and Sichuan peppercorns, make this dish a memorable experience for anyone. Whether you’re grilling up some skewers at a BBQ with friends or looking to try something new, the cumin lamb skewers are undoubtedly worth trying.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless lamb, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
- ½ teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon Chinese rice wine
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 inch piece of ginger, peeled and minced
- 1 red onion, cut into 1-inch chunks
- Bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
- In a small dry pan over medium heat, toast cumin seeds, coriander seeds, and Sichuan peppercorns until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Transfer to a mortar and pestle, add the salt and grind into a fine powder.
- In a bowl, whisk together the ground spices, oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, rice wine, garlic, and ginger.
- Thread the lamb and onion chunks onto the skewers, alternating between the two
- Brush the spice mixture onto each skewer and let marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
- Preheat the grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for about 8-10 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the lamb is caramelized on the outside and cooked through on the inside. Serve hot.