These Easy Cumin Lamb Noodles are full of flavor and spice! Tender lamb is tossed with fresh noodles and a mix of cumin for a meal that’s both hearty and delicious.
I love how quick this dish is to whip up. It’s perfect for busy nights, and it always impresses friends. Plus, who can resist a bowl of noodles? 🍜
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Lamb: I recommend using lamb shoulder or leg for their tenderness and flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can substitute with beef or chicken. Ground lamb works well too if you want a different texture!
Noodles: I usually opt for fresh wheat noodles because they cook quickly and have a nice chew. If fresh noodles aren’t available, you can use dried wheat noodles or even rice noodles as a gluten-free alternative.
Cumin: Cumin is the star of this dish, but if you lack whole seeds, ground cumin will do. Just remember to add a bit less since it’s more concentrated. If you’re not a fan of cumin, some coriander or even paprika can give nice flavor too.
Chili Flakes: These are optional, but I love the kick they give! If you don’t like spice, just skip them, or use a milder pepper like sweet paprika instead.
How Can I Get the Lamb Just Right?
Cooking lamb requires just a bit of attention to make sure it stays juicy and tender. Here’s how to do it well:
- Slice the lamb thinly against the grain—this makes it more tender. Aim for around 1/4-inch thick slices.
- When stir-frying, cook the lamb over medium-high heat. This helps it brown nicely without becoming tough.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! If needed, cook the lamb in batches to ensure it sears rather than steams.
Easy Cumin Lamb Noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Dish:
- 300g (10 oz) lamb shoulder or leg, thinly sliced
- 200g (7 oz) fresh wheat noodles or egg noodles
- 1 tablespoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil (vegetable or canola)
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for some heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 green onions, sliced for garnish
- Fresh coriander (cilantro) for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking time, making it a quick and easy meal to prepare in just about 25 minutes! Perfect for a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Noodles:
Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the noodles and cook according to the package instructions until they are just tender. Once cooked, drain them and set them aside.
2. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet or wok, heat the cooking oil over medium-high heat. You want it nice and hot for the next steps!
3. Toast the Cumin Seeds:
Add the cumin seeds to the hot oil and toast them for about 30 seconds. This will enhance their flavor and aroma. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re fragrant!
4. Sauté Onion and Garlic:
Next, add the thinly sliced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté them until they are softened and smell amazing, around 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir-Fry the Lamb:
Now it’s time to add the sliced lamb. Stir-fry it in the skillet for about 4-6 minutes until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. The goal is to get it tender and flavorful!
6. Season the Lamb:
Sprinkle in the ground cumin, chili flakes (if you like a little spice!), salt, and pepper. Give everything a good mix to coat the lamb evenly in those delicious spices.
7. Add Soy Sauce:
Pour the soy sauce into the skillet and stir well to combine all the flavors.
8. Toss in the Noodles:
Finally, add the cooked noodles to the skillet. Toss everything together over heat for 2-3 minutes so the noodles get coated in all the tasty lamb and spice goodness.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish your dish with the sliced green onions and fresh coriander if you love that extra pop of flavor. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious cumin lamb noodles!
FAQ for Easy Cumin Lamb Noodles
Can I Use Frozen Lamb?
Yes, you can use frozen lamb, but make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight or in cold water before cooking. Pat it dry to avoid extra moisture in the pan!
Can I Prepare This Dish with Another Meat?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with beef, chicken, or even pork. Just adjust the cooking times as needed based on the type of meat you choose to ensure it’s cooked through.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to keep the noodles from drying out.
What Can I Use Instead of Wheat Noodles?
If you’re looking for alternatives, rice noodles are a great gluten-free option. You can also use zucchini noodles or even spaghetti if you’re in a pinch—they’ll give a different twist to the dish!
