Name: Slow-Cooked Lamb Chinese Stew Recipe
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: PT-492165H33M55S
Total time: PT-492165H33M55S
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 2 lbs lamb shoulder, cut into chunks; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry); 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 large onion, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1-inch piece fresh ginger, sliced; 2 medium carrots, cut into chunks; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 2 scallions, chopped; 4 cups beef or chicken broth; 2 tbsp dark soy sauce; 1 tbsp oyster sauce; 1 tbsp hoisin sauce; 1 tsp five-spice powder; 1 tbsp brown sugar; 1 star anise; 2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 3 tbsp water (optional, for thickening); 2 tbsp vegetable oil; Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 86 reviews

If you are craving a dish that fills your home with irresistible aromas and invites everyone to the table, look no further than this Slow-Cooked Lamb Chinese Stew Recipe. This hearty, soul-warming stew brings tender, melt-in-your-mouth lamb to the forefront, infused with fragrant spices, rich broth, and vibrant vegetables. The magic lies in its slow-cooked nature, allowing all the flavors to meld perfectly into a dish that feels both comforting and exotic. Whether a special family dinner or a cozy weekend treat, this stew promises layers of taste and texture that will make it an instant favorite in your recipe collection.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl filled with dark red raw meat chunks sits in the center of the image on a white marbled surface. Surrounding it are several small bowls containing different ingredients: a bowl of light brown sugar, a bowl of white powder like flour, a bowl of dark sauce, a bowl of a clear light liquid, and a bowl of black liquid. There is also a small grey bowl with red chili flakes, cinnamon sticks, and star anise, as well as a small grey bowl with red sauce. Four green onions lie next to the bowl of sugar, alongside three garlic cloves and a piece of ginger. A clear mug with amber-colored liquid sits near the top left. The overall setting is neat and bright, emphasizing the fresh ingredients photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Slow-Cooked Lamb Chinese Stew Recipe is in its simplicity and the thoughtful selection of ingredients that each play a vital role in building the stew’s depth of flavor and inviting appearance.

Lamb shoulder (2 lbs): Choose well-marbled meat for tender, flavorful results after slow cooking.
Ginger (2-inch piece, sliced): Adds a bright, warming kick that balances the richness of lamb.
Garlic (4 cloves, smashed): Infuses the stew with a deeply savory aroma that boosts overall flavor.
Soy sauce (1/4 cup): Brings umami and a subtle saltiness essential to this Chinese-inspired dish.
Star anise (2 pieces): Provides a sweet-licorice note that layers complexity into the stew’s flavor profile.
Chinese five-spice powder (1 tsp): A blend that contributes warm, aromatic tones mirroring traditional Chinese cuisine.
Carrots (2 large, chopped): Add natural sweetness and a pleasant texture contrast to tender lamb.
Daikon radish (1 medium, peeled and chopped): Soaks up the stew’s savory juices and becomes tender to perfection.
Green onions (3 stalks, chopped): For a fresh, slightly sharp finish when garnished at the end.
Beef or lamb broth (4 cups): The stew’s soul, providing a rich, hearty base infused with meaty flavor.
Shaoxing wine (2 tbsp): Adds depth and an authentic Chinese cooking character.
Brown sugar (1 tbsp): Balances savory elements with a touch of sweetness.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance and harmonize all flavors.

How to Make Slow-Cooked Lamb Chinese Stew Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Lamb and Aromatics

Begin by cutting your lamb shoulder into large chunks—approximately two-inch pieces—to ensure they remain juicy and tender after long cooking. Heat a bit of oil in a heavy pot and sear the lamb on all sides until beautifully browned. Browning locks in flavor and forms a tasty crust. After searing, toss in sliced ginger and smashed garlic, cooking just until fragrant to awaken their aromas.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

Next, add soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, star anise, Chinese five-spice powder, and brown sugar to the pot. Stir well to coat the lamb and aromatics. This mixture is the heart of the Slow-Cooked Lamb Chinese Stew Recipe, giving it characteristic flavor depth and a hint of warmth. Pour in the broth, ensuring the lamb is mostly submerged, then bring everything to a gentle simmer.

Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and let it simmer for about 2.5 to 3 hours. Slow cooking tenderizes the lamb until it practically falls apart, while allowing all ingredients to mingle and intensify. Patience is key here—this step transforms simple ingredients into a symphony of savoriness.

Step 4: Add Vegetables

About 45 minutes before the stew finishes cooking, stir in the chopped carrots and daikon radish. These hardy vegetables soak up stew juices and soften just right without losing their structure. Their color also adds a vibrant touch that makes the dish visually inviting.

Step 5: Final Seasoning and Finishing Touches

When the vegetables are tender and the lamb is fork-tender, taste your stew and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Remove the star anise pieces (to avoid overpowering the dish) and sprinkle chopped green onions over the top for a fresh and fragrant finish.

How to Serve Slow-Cooked Lamb Chinese Stew Recipe

Garnishes

An extra sprinkle of fresh green onions adds a bright contrast and a touch of color that wakes up each bite. For some added crunch and a burst of herbal freshness, finely chopped cilantro or a few toasted sesame seeds can be delightful enhancements. These simple garnishes elevate the stew’s presentation and bring balance to its rich, savory flavors.

Side Dishes

This Slow-Cooked Lamb Chinese Stew Recipe pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy brown rice to soak up every drop of its luscious sauce. Alternatively, serve alongside a light, crisp cucumber salad to create a refreshing balance to the stew’s comforting density. Stir-fried green beans or sautéed bok choy also complement the dish perfectly, adding more texture and nutrients to your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy family meal, serve the stew in deep bowls allowing generous portions of lamb and vegetables. If entertaining, consider presenting the stew in a beautiful clay pot or a rustic casserole dish placed at the center of the table to invite communal serving. Garnish each portion with chopped green onions and a sprig of fresh herbs for that extra wow factor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. After cooling, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The lamb remains tender and the vegetables stay intact, making it ideal for quick reheating when you want a warm, satisfying meal.

Freezing

Slow-Cooked Lamb Chinese Stew Recipe freezes wonderfully. Portion leftovers into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some room for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. This makes it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy days when you want incredible flavor with minimal effort.

Reheating

For the best texture and flavor, thaw frozen stew overnight in the fridge, then gently reheat on low in a saucepan or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. If needed, add a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce. Avoid boiling again to keep the lamb tender and juicy.

FAQs

Can I use other cuts of lamb for this stew?

Absolutely, but lamb shoulder is preferred due to its fat content and tenderness when slow-cooked. Leg of lamb can work but might result in a slightly firmer texture. If using leaner cuts, consider adding a bit more cooking time or fat for richness.

Is there a substitute for Shaoxing wine?

If you don’t have Shaoxing wine on hand, dry sherry or a light cooking wine with a splash of rice vinegar can be good substitutes. Just use sparingly to avoid overpowering the stew’s delicate balance.

Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

Yes! After searing the lamb and aromatics on the stove, transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for about 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours until the lamb is tender. Add vegetables about halfway through the cooking time.

How spicy is this stew?

This Slow-Cooked Lamb Chinese Stew Recipe is gently aromatic and not spicy by default. If you love a kick, adding sliced chili peppers or a dash of chili oil during cooking can bring some heat without overpowering the dish.

What type of broth is best for this recipe?

Beef or lamb broth both work beautifully to complement the lamb’s flavor in this stew. If unavailable, a rich vegetable broth can suffice, but using meat-based broth adds that special depth that completes the recipe.

Final Thoughts

This Slow-Cooked Lamb Chinese Stew Recipe is a true celebration of slow-cooking magic and traditional flavors that comfort the soul. Its rich, layered taste and tender morsels of lamb make it a dish you will want to prepare again and again. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy lamb! Happy cooking and even happier eating!