Mongolian Lamb Stir-Fry
Introduction to Mongolian Lamb Stir-Fry
Mongolian Lamb Stir-Fry is a savory and delicious dish with roots in the adventurous terrains of Mongolia, where lamb is a dietary staple. Traditionally, this dish combines the tender meat of lamb with a luscious glaze made of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, creating a robust flavor profile. Often associated with both Mongolian and Chinese cuisine, this dish has been adapted in various ways across the globe. Its balance of sweet, spicy, and umami flavors offers a tantalizing taste experience that is both unique and comforting.
Ingredients
- Lamb - 1 lb, sliced thinly
- Soy Sauce - 1/4 cup
- Brown Sugar - 2 tablespoons
- Garlic - 3 cloves, minced
- Ginger - 1 inch, grated
- Cornstarch - 1 tablespoon
- Water - 1/4 cup
- Green Onions - 3, chopped
- Onion - 1 large, sliced
- Red Pepper Flakes - 1 teaspoon
- Vegetable Oil - 2 tablespoons
- Sesame Seeds - for garnish
- Steamed Rice - to serve
Preparation
Marinating the Lamb
To begin, take the sliced lamb and place it in a bowl. Add half of the soy sauce, garlic, and ginger to the lamb. Mix well until the lamb is evenly coated. Let the lamb sit for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Preparing the Sauce
In a separate bowl, combine the remaining soy sauce, brown sugar, and cornstarch with the water. Stir until the cornstarch is completely dissolved. Set aside for later use during the cooking process.
Cooking the Mongolian Lamb Stir-Fry
Stir-Frying
Heat the vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated lamb slices, spreading them in a single layer. Allow the lamb to sear for approximately 2-3 minutes per side or until the lamb is browned and cooked through. This process may need to be done in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
Once the lamb is cooked, remove it from the pan and set it aside. In the same pan, add more vegetable oil if necessary and toss in the onion slices. Stir-fry the onions until they begin to soften, then add the green onions and red pepper flakes.
Finishing the Dish
Return the cooked lamb to the pan and pour the prepared sauce over the mixture. Stir everything together, making sure the lamb is well-coated with the sauce. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and glazes the ingredients evenly.
Serving Suggestions
Once the Mongolian Lamb Stir-Fry is ready, transfer it to a serving dish. Sprinkle a generous amount of sesame seeds over the top for added texture. This dish pairs wonderfully with a bowl of fragrant steamed rice, which complements the rich and savory flavors perfectly.
How to Enjoy Mongolian Lamb Stir-Fry
To enjoy this dish to its fullest, serve it alongside a few traditional Asian side dishes such as steamed vegetables or pickled radishes. It is also delightful when accompanied by a simple Asian-inspired salad. Whether served at a family dinner or a large gathering, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser with its striking balance of flavors and textures.