Name: Honey Garlic Lamb with Pickled Cucumber Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons butter (dairy-free optional); 1 extra-large brown onion, sliced; 4 lamb rump steaks, cut into 2cm diced pieces; Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste; 4 tablespoons soy sauce; 3 tablespoons runny honey; 8 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon ground ginger; 3 green onions, cut into 2cm lengths; 2 tablespoons sesame oil; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds; 1 packet family-size microwave rice (or stovetop rice); Lime wedges, for serving; Extra green onions, for garnish (optional); 2 Lebanese cucumbers; ¼ cup rice wine vinegar; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; ½ teaspoon salt; 2 teaspoons caster sugar (superfine sugar); 1 teaspoon chili flakes

This Honey Garlic Lamb with Pickled Cucumber is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines tender lamb with a sweet and savory sauce, complemented by refreshing pickled cucumbers. It’s a quick and easy recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavorful and Balanced: The combination of sweet honey, savory soy sauce, and aromatic ginger and garlic creates a delicious glaze for the lamb, while the pickled cucumbers add a refreshing contrast and a tangy crunch.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this dish is surprisingly easy to prepare.
Quick and Healthy: This recipe is ready in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The lean lamb and fresh vegetables also make it a healthy and nutritious choice.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious Honey Garlic Lamb with Pickled Cucumber:

For the Honey Garlic Lamb:

Butter: Adds richness and flavor to the dish. You can use dairy-free butter if needed.
Brown onion: Sliced, for flavor and texture.
Lamb rump steaks: Cut into 2cm cubes, or use another tender cut of lamb suitable for quick cooking.
Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper: To taste.
Soy sauce: Adds a salty and umami flavor to the glaze.
Honey: Adds sweetness and helps create a glaze.
Garlic: Minced, for aromatic depth.
Ground ginger: Adds a warm and slightly spicy flavor.
Green onions: Cut into 2cm lengths, for garnish and a mild onion flavor.
Sesame oil: Adds a nutty aroma and flavor.
Sesame seeds: For garnish and a nutty crunch.
Microwave rice: Family size, or use your favorite cooked rice.
Lime wedges: For serving, adds a bright citrusy flavor.
Extra green onions: Optional, for garnish.

For the Quick Pickled Cucumbers:

Lebanese cucumbers: Or regular cucumbers, for a refreshing and crunchy side dish.
Rice wine vinegar: Adds a tangy flavor to the pickles.
Soy sauce: Adds a salty and umami flavor.
Salt: Enhances the flavors of the pickles.
Caster sugar (superfine sugar): Adds a touch of sweetness and balances the tanginess.
Chili flakes: Adds a hint of heat.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

How to Make Honey Garlic Lamb with Pickled Cucumber

Step 1: Pickle the Cucumbers

Combine all the ingredients for the pickled cucumbers in a bowl: sliced cucumbers, rice wine vinegar, soy sauce, salt, caster sugar, and chili flakes. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes, stirring halfway through, to allow the cucumbers to pickle and absorb the flavors.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Lamb

Season the diced lamb pieces with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Heat the butter in a large pan or wok over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until softened and lightly golden. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the seasoned lamb pieces to the pan. Sear the lamb for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides.

Step 3: Make the Honey Garlic Sauce

Lower the heat to medium. Add the soy sauce and honey to the pan, stirring to coat the lamb and onions in the glaze. Stir in the minced garlic, ground ginger, and green onions. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the lamb is cooked through but still juicy.

Step 4: Finish and Assemble

Turn off the heat and drizzle the sesame oil over the lamb. Sprinkle with sesame seeds. Heat the microwave rice according to package instructions, or use your favorite cooked rice. In each of four serving bowls, place a layer of hot rice. Top with a generous scoop of the honey garlic lamb, making sure to include some of the sauce. Finish with a squeeze of lime juice and a sprinkle of extra green onions, if desired.

Step 5: Serve

Serve each bowl of Honey Garlic Lamb with a small dish of the pickled cucumbers on the side. The refreshing and tangy cucumbers complement the rich flavors of the lamb perfectly.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Use high-quality ingredients: The better the quality of your lamb, vegetables, and spices, the better the flavor of the dish.
Don’t overcook the lamb: Overcooked lamb will be tough and dry. Cook just until it’s browned and cooked through.
Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a spicier dish, you can add more chili flakes to the pickled cucumbers or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the lamb mixture.

How to Serve Honey Garlic Lamb with Pickled Cucumber

Main Course: This Honey Garlic Lamb with Pickled Cucumber is a complete and satisfying meal on its own.
With Sides: You can also serve it with other sides, such as roasted vegetables, a salad, or naan bread.
Lunch or Dinner: Enjoy it for a quick and flavorful lunch or a casual dinner.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of lamb?

Yes, you can use other tender cuts of lamb that are suitable for quick cooking, such as lamb loin chops or lamb leg steaks. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I make this recipe without the pickled cucumbers?

Yes, you can omit the pickled cucumbers or serve them on the side. However, they add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the lamb.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can substitute the lamb with firm tofu or tempeh. Press the tofu or tempeh to remove excess moisture before cooking.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add more chili flakes to the pickled cucumbers or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the lamb mixture.

There you have it! A delicious and easy-to-make recipe for Honey Garlic Lamb with Pickled Cucumber that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!