Craving a flavorful and satisfying meal that's both easy to make and incredibly delicious? Look no further than our Chinese Cumin Lamb Pocket Bread recipe! This recipe perfectly blends the aromatic spice of cumin with tender, succulent lamb, all nestled within fluffy, homemade pocket bread. Imagine sinking your teeth into warm, pillowy bread bursting with savory, spiced lamb – a truly irresistible combination that's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend feast. The bold cumin flavor pairs beautifully with the richness of the lamb, creating a symphony of taste that will leave you wanting more.
This recipe is surprisingly simple to follow, even for beginner cooks. We'll guide you through each step, from preparing the flavorful lamb filling to crafting the perfect pocket bread. Ready to embark on a culinary adventure? Let's get started with our step-by-step instructions below!
Tools Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Rolling pin
- Frying pan
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 400g
- Warm water: 65% of flour
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Small onion: 1
- Garlic: 1 clove
- Red chilies: 2
- Coriander: handful
- Lamb thigh: 250g
- Cumin seeds: 1 teaspoon
- Oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Dough and Lamb Filling
- Mix flour, salt, and warm water. Knead until smooth. Let it rest for 10 minutes, then knead again for a few minutes. Cover and let rest for 1 hour.
- Cut onion, garlic, and chilies. Chop coriander. Slice lamb thinly across the grain, wash, and squeeze out water. Marinate lamb with onion, garlic, chilies, and coriander.
- In the same pan, cook remaining aromatics (except coriander) until soft. Add cumin and cook for 10 seconds. Add cooked lamb and cook for another 30 seconds. Turn off heat and stir in coriander.
Step 2. Cook the Lamb and Make the Pocket Bread
- Roast cumin seeds until aromatic, then grind coarsely. Cook lamb in hot oil until color changes. Set aside.
- Mix flour and oil (1:2 ratio).
- Deflate the dough, knead until smooth. Divide into 10 portions. Roll each portion into a flat circle. Apply a thin layer of oil crisp in the center. Fold the edges to create a pocket, ensuring no air is trapped. Gently press the sides and roll from the center, alternating between forward and backward movements to create an oval shape.
Step 3. Cook the Pocket Bread
- Spray oil in a flat pan. Cook each bread for 1 minute per side.
Step 4. Assemble and Serve
- Fill the pocket bread with the lamb filling and serve.
Read more: Crispy Salt & Pepper Shrimp: A Simple Chinese Prawn Recipe
Tips
- Slicing the lamb across the grain makes it more tender.
- Massage the marinated meat until slightly sticky for better flavor.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use pre-made pocket bread instead of making my own?
Yes, absolutely! Using store-bought pocket bread will significantly reduce the prep time. Just make sure to warm them slightly before filling.
2. What can I substitute for lamb if I don't eat it?
Ground beef or chicken work well as substitutes. Adjust the seasoning slightly to complement the different meat flavor.
3. How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of your favorite chili oil to the lamb filling. You can also use a spicier cumin powder if desired.
This Chinese Cumin Lamb Pocket Bread recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a unique and satisfying culinary experience. From the aromatic spices to the tender lamb and fluffy bread, every bite is a delightful adventure. Enjoy this flavorful dish with friends and family, and don't forget to share your culinary creations!