Experience the rich and aromatic flavors of 烤羊排 (Kāo Yáng Pái), a classic Chinese dish known for its tender, flavorful lamb ribs. This recipe combines traditional spices with a professional touch, ensuring a dish that is both authentic and elevated.
Ingredients
- 1 kg lamb ribs, cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp Sichuan peppercorns
- 1 tbsp star anise
- 1 tbsp fennel seeds
- 1 tbsp cumin seeds
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine (optional for added depth)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp sesame oil (for finishing)
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (for glazing)
- 1 tsp five-spice powder
- Fresh cilantro leaves (for garnish)
- Toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Fresh lime wedges (for serving)
Equipment
- Oven or grill
- Baking sheet or grill rack
- Mixing bowl
- Mortar and pestle or spice grinder
Instructions
Prepare the Marinade:
- Lightly toast the Sichuan peppercorns, star anise, fennel seeds, and cumin seeds in a dry pan over medium heat until fragrant. Allow to cool slightly, then grind to a coarse powder using a mortar and pestle or spice grinder.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ground spices with salt, black pepper, chili powder, five-spice powder, soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, Shaoxing wine, minced garlic, grated ginger, and vegetable oil. Mix well to form a paste.
Marinate the Lamb Ribs:
- Place the lamb ribs in a large bowl or zip-lock bag and pour the marinade over them. Ensure the ribs are thoroughly coated. Cover with plastic wrap or seal the bag, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
Preheat the Oven or Grill:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) or prepare the grill for medium-high heat.
Cook the Lamb Ribs:
- Oven Method: Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top. Arrange the marinated lamb ribs on the rack. Bake for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until the ribs are cooked through and caramelized.
- Grill Method: Place the marinated lamb ribs on a preheated grill rack. Grill for about 10-12 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until the ribs are cooked through and have a nice char.
Finish with Glaze:
- In the last 5 minutes of cooking, brush the ribs with hoisin sauce to add a glossy finish and an extra layer of flavor.
Serve:
- Once cooked, remove the lamb ribs from the oven or grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Drizzle with sesame oil for an added touch of aroma.
- Garnish with chopped green onions, fresh cilantro leaves, and toasted sesame seeds. Serve with fresh lime wedges on the side.
Secret Tips
- For a richer flavor profile, consider adding a few cloves, a cinnamon stick, or a piece of dried tangerine peel to the marinade.
- Allowing the ribs to rest before serving helps to retain their juices, ensuring tender and flavorful meat.
- Serve the lamb ribs with steamed jasmine rice, flatbread, or a fresh side salad for a balanced meal.
- For an extra touch of sophistication, pair the dish with a light and crisp white wine or a refreshing cucumber mint cocktail.
Estimated nutrition table for your 烤羊排 (Kāo Yáng Pái):
Nutrition Facts
Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe
Servings Per Recipe: 4
Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value* |
---|---|---|
Calories | 540 | 27% |
Total Fat | 37g | 57% |
Saturated Fat | 13g | 65% |
Trans Fat | 0g | -- |
Cholesterol | 125mg | 42% |
Sodium | 1020mg | 43% |
Total Carbohydrates | 14g | 5% |
Dietary Fiber | 2g | 8% |
Sugars | 7g | -- |
Protein | 36g | 72% |
Vitamin A | 4% | |
Vitamin C | 6% | |
Calcium | 6% | |
Iron | 25% |
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Notes:
- The nutrition values are approximate and can vary based on the exact ingredients and portion sizes used.
- This table does not account for the optional Shaoxing wine.
- Additional garnishes such as cilantro, sesame seeds, and lime wedges are not included in the nutritional calculation but may add minimal calories and nutrients.
- Sodium content can be adjusted based on the amount of salt, soy sauce, and oyster sauce used