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Mince Stir-Fry Hack: Easy Cumin Lamb

Mince Stir-Fry Hack: Easy Cumin Lamb

Krysta
A revolutionary Chinese stir-fry method using ground lamb to achieve tender, saucy results without the traditional velveting process. This quick and flavorful dish highlights aromatic cumin and a rich soy glaze, perfect for a weeknight meal.
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Calories 550 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 500 g lamb mince (20% fat ideal)
  • 1 tbsp neutral oil
  • 1 medium onion thinly sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 dried chilli (optional
  • 1 tbsp ground cumin
  • 2 tbsp light soy sauce
  • 1 tsp dark soy sauce (optional
  • 2 tbsp fresh coriander chopped (stalks and leaves)
  • 1 tsp black vinegar or lime/lemon juice
  • cooked rice for serving

Instructions
 

  • 1. **Prepare Mince:** If possible, unwrap the lamb mince and leave it uncovered in the fridge for 1-2 hours to dry its surface. Do not pre-salt. 2. **Cook Mince:** Heat neutral oil in a large non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add the lamb mince in one piece, pressing it down to form a flat sheet. Let it brown undisturbed for 3-4 minutes to develop a crust. 3. **Break and Sear:** Break the mince sheet lengthwise in half, then flip each piece. Break crosswise into chunky slices (about 1-inch pieces). Continue cooking until just done and browned on all sides, about 3-5 minutes more. 4. **Drain Fat:** Remove the cooked mince from the pan and set aside. Carefully drain and reserve about half of the rendered lamb fat and juices from the pan, leaving a small amount (about 1-2 tablespoons) for cooking aromatics. 5. **Cook Aromatics:** Return the pan to medium heat with the reserved fat. Add the sliced onion, minced garlic, and dried chillies (if using). Sauté until the onion softens and becomes fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. 6. **Bloom Spices & Sauce:** Add the ground cumin to the pan and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the light soy sauce and dark soy sauce (if using), along with any strained meat juices from the reserved fat. Bring to a simmer and reduce the sauce until it becomes slightly thickened and glossy, about 2 minutes. 7. **Finish Dish:** Return the cooked lamb mince to the pan. Toss to coat evenly with the glossy sauce. Stir in the chopped fresh coriander and a splash of black vinegar or citrus juice. 8. **Serve:** Serve the Cumin Lamb hot immediately with steamed rice.

Notes

For best results, unwrap and leave mince uncovered in the fridge for 1-2 hours to dry the surface; this helps with searing. Always reduce your sauce until glossy before adding the cooked mince back to prevent steaming. Finish with a touch of acidity like black vinegar or citrus to brighten the rich flavors. This method works well with beef, pork, or chicken mince too!
Keyword cumin lamb, lamb mince, stir-fry, Chinese food, quick meal, tender meat, ground lamb, weeknight dinner, no velveting