Spicy Cumin Lamb Skewers (Yang Rou Chuan) Recipe

Step 1

In a mortar and pestle or spice grinder, coarsely grind chili flakes, cumin, and fennel. Add granulated garlic and kosher salt and briefly grind to break salt into smaller pieces and thoroughly combine ingredients.

Step 2

Reserve 1 tablespoon of the spice mix in a small bowl. Add lamb to a large bowl and toss thoroughly with the remaining spice mix, oil, and Shaoxing wine.

Step 3

Light one chimney full of charcoal. When all the charcoal is lit and covered with gray ash, pour out and arrange coals on one side of the charcoal grate. Set cooking grate in place, cover grill and allow to preheat for 5 minutes. Clean and oil the grilling grate.

Step 4

Grill skewers, covered, over indirect heat until lamb is nearly cooked through, about 4 minutes per side.

Step 5

Move skewers over direct heat, sprinkle with the reserved spice mix, and cook until well seared on both sides, about 1 minute total.

Step 6

Remove skewers from the grill and serve right away.