Laghman (Fried)
A popular Central Asian noodle dish, this version features hand-pulled noodles stir-fried with meat and vegetables, offering a savory and satisfying meal.
🧂 Ingredients
- 3 cups All-purpose flour
- 1 cup Water(lukewarm)
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1/4 cup Vegetable oil(for dough and frying)
- 1 lb Beef or lamb(cut into thin strips)
- 1 large Onion(sliced)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 2 medium Tomatoes(diced)
- 1 large Bell pepper(sliced)
- 1/2 head Cabbage(shredded)
- 3 tbsp Soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Tomato paste
- 1 tsp Cumin
- 1 tsp Coriander
- 1/2 tsp Chili flakes(optional)
- 1/4 cup Fresh cilantro(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
For the noodles: In a bowl, combine flour and salt. Gradually add lukewarm water and mix to form a firm dough. Knead for 10-15 minutes until smooth and elastic. Coat the dough with a little oil, cover, and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
💡 Tip: The dough should be firm but pliable. Resting is crucial for easy stretching. - 2
Divide the dough into small balls. Roll each ball into a thin rope, then stretch and pull them by hand to create long, thin noodles. Alternatively, you can flatten the dough and cut it into strips.
💡 Tip: Practice makes perfect with hand-pulling noodles. If difficult, cut them. - 3
Boil the noodles in plenty of salted water until al dente, about 5-7 minutes. Drain and toss with a little oil to prevent sticking.
- 4
Heat 2-3 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat. Add the meat strips and stir-fry until browned. Remove meat and set aside.
- 5
Add more oil if needed. Stir-fry the sliced onion until softened, then add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 6
Add the diced tomatoes, sliced bell pepper, and shredded cabbage to the wok. Stir-fry until vegetables are tender-crisp.
- 7
Stir in the tomato paste, soy sauce, cumin, coriander, and chili flakes (if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- 8
Return the stir-fried meat to the wok. Add the cooked noodles and toss everything together well to combine. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- 9
Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro before serving.
💡 Tip: Serve immediately while hot.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The quality of the noodles is key to a good Laghman. Don't rush the dough preparation.
- ✓Adjust the amount of chili flakes to your spice preference.
- ✓You can add other vegetables like green beans, carrots, or potatoes.
🔄 Variations
- Use a mix of beef and lamb for a richer flavor.
- Add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice at the end for brightness.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add more vegetables or tofu.