Spiced Lamb Skewers (Yang Rou Chuan)

Ingredients

400g lamb shoulder, diced (mix of lean and fatty pieces)

1 aubergine, cut into chunks (optional)

100g button mushrooms (optional)

Bamboo skewers (soaked in water)

Vegetable oil

The Marinade

1 tablespoon light soy sauce

1 tablespoon Shaoxing rice wine

Pinch salt

Pinch sugar

1 teaspoon cornflour

The Spice Mix

1 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns

1 teaspoon fennel seeds

1 teaspoon coriander seeds

Pinch ground cinnamon

Pinch white pepper

Pinch salt

Pinch sugar

PREPARATION

Method

1. Toast the Sichuan peppercorns, fennel seeds and coriander seeds in a dry pan over medium heat for 3–4 minutes until fragrant.

2. Grind the toasted spices with cinnamon, white pepper, salt and sugar into a fine seasoning powder.

3. Place the diced lamb in a bowl and add light soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, salt, sugar and cornflour.

4. Add a generous amount of the spice mix and mix well to coat the lamb evenly.

5. Leave to marinate for at least 30 minutes (or longer for deeper flavour).

6. Thread the lamb onto skewers, alternating lean and fatty pieces.

7. Brush vegetable skewers (if using) lightly with oil and sprinkle with spice mix.

COOKING

8. Heat a grill pan or barbecue until smoking hot.

9. Place the lamb skewers onto the grill and cook for 3–4 minutes on each side until nicely charred.

10. Turn occasionally to ensure even cooking and caramelisation.

11. Sprinkle extra spice mix over the skewers while cooking for added flavour.

12. Remove and serve immediately while hot and juicy.

School of Wok Tips

• Alternate fatty and lean lamb for the best flavour and texture.

• Toasting spices enhances their aroma significantly.

• Do not move the skewers too early—let them develop a good char first.

• A barbecue gives the most authentic smoky flavour.

FAQs

What cut of lamb is best for skewers?

Lamb shoulder works best because it has a good balance of fat and meat.

Can I cook these without a grill?

Yes, you can use a frying pan or oven grill, though barbecue gives the best flavour.

Are lamb skewers very spicy?

They are more aromatic than spicy, but you can add chilli flakes to increase heat.