Imagine being able to enjoy a taste of Xinjiang's rich culinary heritage right here in the UK – without breaking the bank or jetting off thousands of miles. That's now a reality, thanks to the growing popularity of Uyghur lamb skewers on our high streets and in local restaurants. These mouth-watering kebabs, known as 'kawap' among the predominantly Turkic-speaking Muslim Uyghur population, offer a unique flavour experience that mirrors other Turkic cuisines, with their blend of succulent lamb, generous seasoning, and warm spices.
While you might associate these delicious skewers with street food stalls in China's Xinjiang region, they're now becoming increasingly accessible in the UK – particularly in London. With a growing number of restaurants serving up authentic Uyghur cuisine, British diners can experience these mouth-watering offerings without needing to travel far. And if cooking at home is more your thing, don't worry – preparing Uyghur lamb skewers is surprisingly straightforward, requiring just a hot grill and a few simple ingredients.
When it comes to choosing the right cut of lamb for authentic Uyghur skewers, it's all about marbling. Culinary experts recommend using well-marbled cuts like breast or shoulder, or opting for leaner cuts like leg or rump with small chunks of lamb fat added in. This fat is essential for tenderness and flavour – and it's what sets these skewers apart from other grilled meats.
Marinating the lamb is also key to getting that perfect balance of flavours. While some chefs prefer a simple dry rub, most recipes recommend marinating for at least 30 minutes or up to a few hours to let the spices penetrate the meat. You can't go wrong with a mix of ground cumin, chilli flakes, and salt – but feel free to get creative with other spices like Shaoxing cooking wine, white pepper, Sichuan pepper, spring onion, ginger, coriander, nutmeg, or garlic.
Once your lamb is marinated and ready to go, simply grill it over high heat until you've got a smoky char on the outside and a tender interior. And that's it – no fuss, just delicious results! This growing interest in Uyghur cuisine reflects a broader trend towards exploring international food traditions here in the UK.