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Crispy Cumin Lamb with Brothy Rice Recipe
Ben Carraoli

Crispy Cumin Lamb with Brothy Rice Recipe

I recently made this crispy cumin lamb with brothy rice, and honestly, it felt like a restaurant-quality dish right in my own kitchen. The aroma of toasted cumin and sizzling lamb instantly filled my space with warmth.
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 500

Ingredients
  

  • 500 g lamb thinly sliced
  • 2 cups jasmine rice
  • 1 tbsp cumin seeds
  • 1 tbsp cumin powder
  • 1 tsp chili flakes
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 tbsp ginger grated
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp oyster sauce
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 small onion sliced
  • 2 green onions chopped
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro optional

Method
 

  1. Start by slicing the lamb thinly against the grain to keep it tender. Chop the onion, mince garlic, and grate ginger so everything is ready to go. Having ingredients prepped in advance makes cooking smooth and stress-free.
  2. In a pot, rinse the rice until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Add chicken broth and bring it to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer. The rice absorbs the broth slowly, becoming rich and flavorful.
  3. Heat a dry pan and lightly toast the cumin seeds until fragrant. This step enhances their earthy aroma and makes a noticeable difference in taste. Once toasted, set them aside for later use.
  4. Heat oil in a wok or skillet over high heat until hot. Add the lamb in a single layer and let it sear without stirring for a minute. This helps develop a crispy, golden crust on the meat.
  5. Once the lamb is browned, toss in garlic, ginger, and onion. Stir everything together and cook until fragrant and slightly softened. These aromatics build the base flavor of the dish.
  6. Add cumin powder, chili flakes, soy sauce, and oyster sauce. Stir well to coat the lamb evenly. Continue cooking until the lamb becomes crispy and slightly caramelized.
  7. Fluff the cooked rice and spoon it into bowls. Top with crispy cumin lamb and drizzle some of the pan juices over the rice. Garnish with green onions and cilantro before serving.

Notes

  • I always use high heat when cooking lamb to get that perfect crispiness
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan, or the lamb will steam instead of sear
  • I like to toast cumin seeds fresh—it really boosts flavor
  • Let the rice rest for a few minutes after cooking for better texture
  • I sometimes add a squeeze of lemon at the end for brightness.