HealthNotes

Asparagus and Lamb Stir Fry

• From: California Asparagus Commission

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless lamb, (from the leg or loin)

• 2 Tbs soy sauce, divided

• 3 tsp cornstarch, divided

• 1/2 cup low sodium chicken stock or dry Sherry

• 1 Tbs (Chinese) chili-garlic sauce

• 1 tsp sugar

• 2 Tbs peanut oil or vegetable oil

• 4 green onions, cut diagonally into 1-inch pieces

• 1 tsp freshly minced ginger

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 1 lb asparagus, ends trimmed, cut into 2- inch pieces

• 2 Tbs sesame seeds, toasted

Chili-garlic sauce and sugar add a touch of sweet and spicy to this tempting meal.

Directions

• Cut lamb into long 2-inch wide strips along the grain of the meat, then cut crosswise (across the grain), into thin slices. This ensures tender mouthfuls. In a medium bowl, combine the lamb, 1 tablespoon of the soy sauce, and 2 teaspoons of the cornstarch.
• To make the stir-fry sauce: In a small bowl, stir together the stock, the remaining 1 tablespoon soy sauce and 1 teaspoon cornstarch, the chili-garlic sauce, and sugar; set aside.
• Heat a wok or large frying pan over high heat. Pour 1 tablespoon of the oil into the hot wok, swirling to coat. Add the lamb and cook, stirring and tossing, until lightly golden, about 2 minutes. With a slotted spoon, remove to a plate. Reduce heat to medium-high.
• Pour the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil into the hot wok, swirling to coat. Add the green onions, ginger, and garlic. Cook, stirring until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
• Add the asparagus and cook, stirring and tossing, until bright green, 30 seconds to 1 minute. Stir the sauce to blend and add to the pan. Cook, stirring until the sauce thickens, about 1 minute; cover and cook until asparagus is tender-crisp, about 1 minute. Return lamb to the pan and just heat through. Garnish with sesame seeds and serve immediately with steamed rice or rice noodles.