Name: Hunan Lamb Chops: A Spicy & Delicious Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 Lamb Chops (about 1 inch thick); 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce; 1 tablespoon Rice Vinegar; 1 tablespoon Shaoxing Wine (or dry sherry); 1 teaspoon Sesame Oil; 1 teaspoon Cornstarch; 1/2 teaspoon Ground White Pepper; 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil; 4 cloves Garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon Ginger, minced; 1-2 Red Chilies, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference); 2 tablespoons Doubanjiang (fermented broad bean paste); 1 tablespoon Soy Sauce; 1 tablespoon Rice Vinegar; 1 tablespoon Sugar; 1 teaspoon Sesame Oil; 1/2 cup Chicken Broth (or water); 1 teaspoon Cornstarch (mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water); Sesame Seeds; Chopped Green Onions

Hunan Lamb Chops: Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that will ignite your taste buds! Imagine sinking your teeth into succulent, perfectly seared lamb chops, infused with the fiery and fragrant flavors of Hunan cuisine. This isn't just a meal; it's an experience that will transport you straight to the heart of China.

Hunan cuisine, known for its bold and spicy character, boasts a rich history deeply rooted in the Hunan province of China. Unlike its northern counterpart, Sichuan cuisine, Hunan dishes emphasize fresh chili peppers and a sour, tangy profile, creating a unique and unforgettable taste sensation. The use of these vibrant ingredients reflects the region's agricultural abundance and the locals' passion for bold flavors.

What makes Hunan Lamb Chops so irresistible? It's the perfect marriage of tender, high-quality lamb with a complex and intensely flavorful sauce. The combination of chili peppers, garlic, ginger, and soy sauce creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. People adore this dish not only for its incredible taste but also for its relatively quick cooking time. It's an impressive meal that's surprisingly easy to prepare, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Get ready to experience the magic of Hunan cooking with this incredible lamb chop recipe!

Ingredients:

For the Lamb Chops:

8 Lamb Chops (about 1 inch thick)
2 tablespoons Soy Sauce
1 tablespoon Rice Vinegar
1 tablespoon Shaoxing Wine (or dry sherry)
1 teaspoon Sesame Oil
1 teaspoon Cornstarch
1/2 teaspoon Ground White Pepper

For the Hunan Sauce:

2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil
4 cloves Garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Ginger, minced
1-2 Red Chilies, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
2 tablespoons Doubanjiang (fermented broad bean paste)
1 tablespoon Soy Sauce
1 tablespoon Rice Vinegar
1 tablespoon Sugar
1 teaspoon Sesame Oil
1/2 cup Chicken Broth (or water)
1 teaspoon Cornstarch (mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water)

For Garnish (Optional):

Sesame Seeds
Chopped Green Onions

Marinating the Lamb Chops

Okay, let's get started! The first thing we need to do is marinate the lamb chops. This is crucial because it tenderizes the meat and infuses it with flavor. Trust me, you don't want to skip this step!

Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry), sesame oil, cornstarch, and ground white pepper. Make sure everything is well combined. The cornstarch helps to create a slight coating on the lamb, which will help the sauce cling to it later.
Marinate the Lamb Chops: Place the lamb chops in the bowl with the marinade. Use your hands (or tongs) to ensure that each chop is thoroughly coated. Don't be shy – really get in there and massage the marinade into the meat.
Refrigerate: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. The longer you marinate, the more flavorful and tender the lamb will be. I usually aim for at least an hour if I have the time.

Preparing the Hunan Sauce

While the lamb is marinating, let's whip up the Hunan sauce. This is where the magic happens! The combination of spicy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors is what makes this dish so irresistible.

Mince the Aromatics: Mince the garlic and ginger. Finely chop the red chilies. Remember, the amount of chili you use will determine the spiciness of the sauce, so adjust it to your liking. If you're sensitive to heat, start with just one chili and taste as you go.
Prepare the Cornstarch Slurry: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until smooth. This will be used to thicken the sauce at the end.

Cooking the Lamb Chops

Now comes the fun part – cooking the lamb! There are a few different ways you can cook the lamb chops, but I prefer to pan-fry them for a nice sear and even cooking. You can also grill them or broil them if you prefer.

Heat the Oil: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Make sure the pan is hot before adding the lamb chops. A hot pan is key to getting a good sear.
Sear the Lamb Chops: Remove the lamb chops from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Carefully place the lamb chops in the hot skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. You may need to cook them in batches. Sear the lamb chops for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are nicely browned and cooked to your desired doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C). For medium, aim for 145°F (63°C).
Remove and Rest: Once the lamb chops are cooked to your liking, remove them from the skillet and set them aside on a plate. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chop.

Making the Hunan Sauce

With the lamb chops cooked and resting, it's time to finish the Hunan sauce. This part goes quickly, so have all your ingredients ready to go.

Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet (or wok) that you cooked the lamb chops in, add the minced garlic, ginger, and chopped red chilies. Sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Add the Doubanjiang: Add the doubanjiang (fermented broad bean paste) to the skillet and sauté for another 30 seconds. This will release its flavor and aroma. Doubanjiang is a key ingredient in Hunan cuisine, so don't skip it if you can find it. It adds a unique savory and spicy flavor to the sauce.
Add the Liquids: Pour in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, sesame oil, and chicken broth (or water). Stir well to combine.
Thicken the Sauce: Bring the sauce to a simmer. Then, slowly pour in the cornstarch slurry, stirring constantly. The sauce will thicken quickly.
Simmer: Continue to simmer the sauce for about 1-2 minutes, or until it reaches your desired consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add a little more sugar if you prefer a sweeter sauce, or a little more soy sauce if you prefer a saltier sauce.

Assembling and Serving

Alright, we're in the home stretch! Now it's time to put everything together and enjoy our delicious Hunan lamb chops.

Add the Lamb Chops to the Sauce: Add the cooked lamb chops back to the skillet with the Hunan sauce. Toss to coat the lamb chops evenly with the sauce.
Serve: Serve the Hunan lamb chops immediately over rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired.

Tips and Variations:

Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red chilies to control the spiciness of the dish. You can also use chili flakes or chili oil for an extra kick.
Vegetables: Feel free to add some vegetables to the sauce, such as bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms. Sauté them along with the garlic and ginger.
Meat: While this recipe is for lamb chops, you can also use other cuts of lamb, such as lamb shoulder or lamb leg. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly. You can also substitute with beef or chicken.
Doubanjiang Substitute: If you can't find doubanjiang, you can try substituting it with a mixture of chili garlic sauce and a small amount of miso paste.
Make Ahead: You can marinate the lamb chops and prepare the Hunan sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook.

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this Hunan lamb chops recipe as much as I do! It's a flavorful and satisfying dish that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Don't be afraid to experiment with the ingredients and adjust the recipe to your liking. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! These Hunan lamb chops are truly a game-changer. I know, I know, I might be biased, but trust me on this one. The explosion of flavors, the tender, juicy lamb, and that incredible Hunan spice blend – it all comes together to create a dish that's both comforting and exciting. It's a culinary adventure right in your own kitchen, and honestly, who doesn't love a little adventure? But why is this recipe a must-try? Well, beyond the sheer deliciousness, it's surprisingly simple to make. Don't let the "Hunan" part intimidate you. I've broken down each step to be as clear and concise as possible, so even if you're a beginner cook, you can absolutely nail this. Plus, it's a fantastic way to impress your friends and family. Imagine serving these succulent lamb chops at your next dinner party – you'll be the star of the show! And the best part? It's incredibly versatile. While I personally love serving these Hunan lamb chops with a side of fluffy white rice to soak up all that amazing sauce, the possibilities are endless. You could pair them with roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus for a healthier option. Or, for a more indulgent meal, try serving them with creamy mashed potatoes or even polenta. Looking for variations? Go ahead and experiment! If you're not a fan of lamb, you could easily substitute it with pork chops or even chicken thighs. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly. And if you're feeling extra adventurous, try adding some other vegetables to the marinade, like bell peppers or onions. The key is to have fun and make it your own. Another great variation is to adjust the spice level to your liking. If you're sensitive to heat, start with a smaller amount of chili flakes and work your way up. Or, if you're a true spice lover, feel free to add even more! A dash of chili oil at the end can also kick things up a notch. These Hunan lamb chops are not just a meal; they're an experience. They're a celebration of flavor, a testament to the power of simple ingredients, and a reminder that cooking can be both fun and rewarding. I truly believe that this recipe has the potential to become a new family favorite. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, put on your apron, and get cooking! I promise you won't regret it. And once you've tried it, I'd absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you make any modifications? What did you serve it with? What did your family think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below – I can't wait to see what you create! Let's spread the love for these incredible Hunan lamb chops and inspire others to try them too. Happy cooking!