In the heart of the kitchen, there’s a flurry of excitement as the scent of spices fills the air—it’s time to whip up my version of Cumin Lamb Noodles. These homemade hand-pulled noodles, adorned with succulent lamb and a rich chili oil sauce, bring the essence of Xi’an’s culinary magic right to your dinner table. Not only is this recipe a delightful adventure for your taste buds, but it also offers the pleasure of preparing restaurant-style dining at home. With a quick prep time and the ability to impress any guest, these spicy noodles are sure to become a favorite in your cooking repertoire. Ready to dive into a bowl of flavor and warmth? Let’s get started!

Why are these Cumin Lamb Noodles irresistible?

Bold flavors: Each bite bursts with spices, elevating your meal beyond the ordinary.
Easy to make: With simple steps, you’ll create a restaurant-quality dish right at home.
Perfectly paired: The chewy hand-pulled noodles blend beautifully with tender lamb, ensuring a satisfying texture.
Customizable options: Swap lamb for chicken or make it gluten-free with rice noodles to cater to any palate.
Crowd-pleaser: Serve this dish at your next gathering to impress friends and family alike—everyone will be asking for seconds!
For more delicious noodle recipes, check out our Dan Dan Noodles or Sticky Beef Noodles!

Cumin Lamb Noodles Ingredients

For the Noodles
• Homemade hand-pulled noodles – Essential for that chewy texture; you can also use wide wheat noodles for convenience.

For the Spices
• Cumin seeds – Provides a warm, earthy flavor; opt for whole spices for the freshest taste.
• Sichuan peppercorns – Adds numbing spice; can be omitted if you prefer less heat.
• Coriander seeds – Offers citrusy undertones; ground coriander makes a good substitute.

For the Lamb
• Lamb (1 lb, thinly sliced) – Juiciness comes from well-marbled cuts like loin or shoulder; other tender cuts work too.
• Shaoxing wine – Enhances flavor depth; dry sherry is an acceptable alternative.
• Salt – Essential for seasoning the dish.
• Peanut oil (3 tablespoons) – High smoke point for frying; vegetable oil can do the trick.
• Cornstarch (2 teaspoons) – Helps tenderize the lamb and create a lovely texture.

For the Sauce
• Chili oil (1/2 cup, to taste) – Adds richness and spice; homemade is best, but store-bought can work.
• Chinkiang vinegar – Balances acidity; rice vinegar will suffice if you’re out.
• Light soy sauce (4 teaspoons) – Contributes saltiness and umami flavor.
• Dark soy sauce (4 teaspoons) – Provides color and a touch of sweetness.

For the Aromatics
• Garlic (8 cloves, minced) – Offers aromatic depth you’ll love.
• Ginger (2 inches, minced) – Adds warmth and complexity.
• Red onion (1, thinly sliced) – Contributes sweetness and texture.
• Hot green chili (1, sliced) – Adjust according to your spice tolerance for the perfect kick.
• Cilantro (1/2 bunch, chopped) – Adds freshness and brightness; you can skip it if preferred.

Now you have everything you need for these sumptuous Cumin Lamb Noodles!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cumin Lamb Noodles

Step 1: Noodle Prep
Begin by preparing your homemade hand-pulled noodles. Boil a large pot of water over high heat, ensuring it’s bubbling vigorously. Once ready, lightly toss the dough until it’s soft and pliable, stretching it into long, thin strips. Set aside while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.

Step 2: Spice Toasting
In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast 2 tablespoons of cumin seeds, 2 teaspoons of Sichuan peppercorns, and 1 teaspoon of coriander seeds for about 5 minutes. Stir frequently until fragrant and golden brown. Remove from heat, then transfer into a spice grinder and pulse into a coarse powder to release robust flavors for your cumin lamb noodles.

Step 3: Marinate Lamb
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 lb of thinly sliced lamb with 1 tablespoon of Shaoxing wine, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 3 tablespoons of peanut oil. Sprinkle in the ground spices you prepared and mix thoroughly. Allow the lamb to marinate for 15 minutes, letting the flavors meld and tenderize the meat for a truly delicious dish.

Step 4: Cook Lamb
Heat 2 tablespoons of peanut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated lamb, cooking until it’s seared and browned, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in 8 minced garlic cloves and 2 inches of minced ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until aromatic and beautifully fragrant, ensuring the base of your cumin lamb noodles is flavorful.

Step 5: Add Vegetables
Introduce 1 thinly sliced red onion and 1 sliced hot green chili into the skillet, stirring quickly for about 10-20 seconds until the onion softens slightly. This adds sweetness and spice, which will enhance the flavor profile of your cumin lamb noodles, creating a delightful mix to coat your noodles.

Step 6: Combine Flavors
Toss the lamb and vegetable mixture with the remaining spices, then pour in 3 tablespoons of Chinkiang vinegar, 4 teaspoons of light soy sauce, and 4 teaspoons of dark soy sauce. Stir everything together, allowing the sauce to coat the ingredients thoroughly and heat up—about 2-3 minutes—until bubbling and aromatic.

Step 7: Prepare Noodles
As your lamb mixture simmers, return to the pot of boiling water and cook your hand-pulled noodles for 1-2 minutes, or follow the package instructions if using store-bought noodles. The noodles should be chewy but tender, then drain and rinse briefly under cold water to stop the cooking process.

Step 8: Serve
Ladle the vibrant lamb mixture over the hot noodles, allowing the flavors to mingle beautifully. Drizzle with additional chili oil or soy sauce to your taste. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a pop of color and flavor, making your cumin lamb noodles a feast for the eyes and palate!

Expert Tips for Cumin Lamb Noodles

• Prep Ahead: Gather and measure all your ingredients before starting to cook. This avoids last-minute scrambling and helps everything cook evenly.

• Toast Spices: Always toast your cumin, Sichuan peppercorns, and coriander before using. This step elevates the flavor of your Cumin Lamb Noodles, making them aromatic and delicious.

• Manage Heat: Cook your lamb over medium-high heat for a nice sear but keep an eye on the timing. Overcooked lamb can become tough, so aim for just browned and tender.

• Adjust Spice: If you’re sensitive to heat, reduce the amount of chili oil or use a milder green chili. It’s always easier to add heat than to take it away!

• Marinate Well: Allow your lamb to marinate for at least 15 minutes to maximize flavor. A longer marination can even improve tenderness, making your finished dish truly restaurant-style.

Cumin Lamb Noodles Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to personalize your cumin lamb noodles adventure with these delightful twists that cater to your taste buds!

Chicken Swap: Substitute lamb with chicken for a lighter option. Chicken thighs work beautifully and remain juicy.
Beef Addition: Use sliced beef instead of lamb—flank or sirloin is perfect. The rich flavor complements the spices wonderfully.
Gluten-Free Noodles: Switch to rice noodles if you’re looking for a gluten-free alternative; it will still satisfy your noodle cravings.
Extra Spice: Elevate your dish by adding more Sichuan peppercorns or a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
Vegetable Boost: Toss in colorful bell peppers or snow peas with the onions for additional crunch and nutrition. Your dish will be bursting with colors and flavors!
Soy Sauce Swap: Experiment with tamari instead of soy sauce to keep the dish gluten-free, without sacrificing taste.
Herb Twists: Fresh herbs like basil or mint can replace cilantro for a unique freshness that brings a twist to the flavor profile.
Creamy Sauce: Integrate a splash of coconut milk in the sauce for a creamy richness that beautifully balances out the spices, reminiscent of a luscious curry.

So, whether you’re whipping up some spicy lamb noodles or trying a completely new variation, remember—cooking is about joy and expression. And while you’re at it, you might also enjoy our delicious Sticky Beef Noodles or explore rich flavors with our Slow Cooker Noodles. Happy cooking!

What to Serve with Cumin Lamb Noodles

Creating a complete dining experience is as easy as pairing these flavorful noodles with delightful sides and drinks.

Sizzling Garlic Bok Choy: A lightly sautéed side dish that adds a crunchy contrast and garlicky freshness, balancing the rich flavors of the noodles.
Savory Egg Drop Soup: This comforting soup is light and warming, perfect for kicking off your meal before diving into the exciting spices of the cumin lamb noodles.
Spicy Szechuan Green Beans: These vibrant beans, stir-fried with garlic and a touch of chili oil, echo the flavors of your dish while adding a delightful crunch.
Creamy Sesame Slaw: A cool, crunchy slaw dressed in sesame dressing provides a fresh palate cleanser, perfectly complementing the richness of the lamb.
Chilled Cucumber Salad: This refreshing salad brings crispness with a hint of vinegar, lightening the meal and contrasting beautifully with the spicy noodles.
Ginger-Lemon Iced Tea: A fragrant drink that pairs well with the heat of the cumin lamb, offering a refreshing respite between bites.
Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, indulge in this sweet, creamy treat that adds a tropical finish, balancing the meal with its delightful sweetness.
Chinese Beer: A chilled bottle of light, crisp Chinese beer pairs well, enhancing flavors without overpowering the delicious spices in your dish.
Rich Chocolate Cake: If you’re craving something indulgent for dessert, this rich cake is a perfect sweet ending, contrasting with the spicy flavors of the meal.

How to Store and Freeze Cumin Lamb Noodles

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the noodles and lamb mixture separate to maintain the ideal texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the lamb mixture in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Noodles are best made fresh, but cooked noodles can be frozen for up to 1 month.

Reheating: Thaw frozen lamb in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a skillet over medium heat. If noodles were frozen, add a splash of water while reheating in the microwave to soften.

Tip: When reheating the Cumin Lamb Noodles, adding a touch of chili oil brightens up the dish and reinvigorates the flavors!

Make Ahead Options

These Cumin Lamb Noodles are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time during the week! You can marinate the lamb up to 24 hours in advance, allowing it to absorb all those delicious flavors. Additionally, you can prepare the homemade hand-pulled noodles, letting them rest in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the prepped noodles in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, heat the marinated lamb mixture in a skillet until warmed through, and combine. Just remember to store the marinated lamb and noodles in separate airtight containers to ensure everything remains fresh and flavorful for your delightful Cumin Lamb Noodles!

Cumin Lamb Noodles Recipe FAQs

What type of noodles should I use for Cumin Lamb Noodles?
Absolutely! For the best texture, I recommend using homemade hand-pulled noodles. If you’re short on time, wide wheat noodles or semi-fresh noodles are acceptable substitutes as well.

How should I store leftover Cumin Lamb Noodles?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the best texture, I suggest keeping the noodles separate from the lamb mixture until you’re ready to enjoy them again.

Can I freeze Cumin Lamb Noodles?
Very! You can freeze the lamb mixture in an airtight container for up to 3 months. While cooked noodles can be frozen for about 1 month, I recommend preparing fresh noodles when you’re ready to serve for the best taste and texture.

What if my lamb turns out tough?
Managing your cooking heat is crucial! If your lamb becomes tough, it may have been overcooked. Aim for a sear over medium-high heat—3 to 4 minutes should be enough to get a nice browning without losing tenderness. Proper marination is also key for a juicy bite!

Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
When it comes to dietary preferences, you might want to consider that this dish contains gluten in the noodles and potential allergens in the oils and sauces. If you have gluten sensitivity, you can use rice noodles instead. When serving, be sure to check for any visible signs of allergies in guests, such as those with soy sauce or nut allergies.

How can I customize the spice level in my Cumin Lamb Noodles?
If spice isn’t your thing, it’s easy to adjust the heat! You can reduce the amount of chili oil used or swap out the hot green chili for a milder variety. Tasting as you go will help you achieve the perfect balance of flavor—remember, it’s all about making it your own!