Chinese Scallion Lamb Stir-Fry
Scallion Lamb Stir-Fry, or Cōng Bào Yáng Ròu, is a traditional Northern Chinese dish known for its bold aroma and quick cooking method. Thinly sliced lamb is stir-fried with fragrant scallions and seasonings, resulting in a savory, slightly sweet, and aromatic dish that's perfect with rice.
Ingredients (2–3 servings)
Main:
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300g (10 oz) lamb (leg or shoulder), thinly sliced against the grain
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3–4 stalks of scallions, cut into 2-inch (5 cm) sections
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2 tablespoons vegetable oil
For the marinade:
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1 tablespoon light soy sauce
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1 teaspoon Shaoxing wine (Chinese cooking wine)
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1/2 teaspoon cornstarch
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1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
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1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
For the sauce:
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1 tablespoon oyster sauce
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1 tablespoon light soy sauce
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1/2 teaspoon dark soy sauce (for color)
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1/2 teaspoon sugar
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Optional: a splash of water or chicken stock to thin out the sauce
1. Slice and Marinate the Lamb
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Thinly slice the lamb against the grain to ensure tenderness.
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In a bowl, combine the lamb slices with soy sauce, cooking wine, cornstarch, sesame oil, and white pepper.
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Mix well and let marinate for 15–20 minutes while preparing other ingredients.
💡 Tip: Partially freeze the lamb for 30 minutes before slicing to make thin cutting easier.
2. Prepare the Sauce and Aromatics
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Mix all sauce ingredients in a small bowl and set aside.
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Wash and cut scallions into sections — separate the white and green parts if desired for layered flavor.
3. Stir-Fry the Lamb
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Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
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Add the marinated lamb and stir-fry for 1–2 minutes until browned and nearly cooked through.
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Remove the lamb from the pan and set aside.
4. Stir-Fry the Scallions
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In the same wok, add another tablespoon of oil if needed.
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Add scallion whites first, stir-fry until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
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Then add scallion greens and stir quickly.
5. Combine and Finish
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Return the lamb to the wok.
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Pour in the sauce mixture and toss everything together for 30–60 seconds, until the sauce slightly thickens and coats the lamb and scallions evenly.
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Turn off the heat and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve hot with freshly steamed jasmine rice or as part of a multi-dish Chinese meal.
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Great for weeknight dinners when you're craving something fast, hearty, and flavorful.
Tips for Success
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Don't overcook the lamb — high heat and quick stir-fry are key.
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Use fresh, young scallions for best aroma and tenderness.
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For a spicy version, add dried chili peppers or a dash of chili oil while stir-frying.
Why You'll Love It
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Rich, meaty flavor with a burst of scallion aroma
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Quick and easy — done in under 30 minutes
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A true taste of Northern Chinese home cooking
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