Steamed Lamb and Beef with Flour

Steamed Lamb and Beef with Flour

　　Steamed Lamb and Beef with Flour has a history of over 1,000 years. It is made with tender lamb or beef and wheat flour as the main ingredients. Thirteen types of western Chinese seasonings such as Sichuan peppercorn and fennel are ground into powder to marinate and flavor the meat. The mixture is then steamed over high heat followed by low heat, hence the name “Steamed Lamb and Beef with Flour.” It is typically served with raw garlic. It can also be eaten sandwiched in fluffy scallion pancake-like flatbreads. Afterward, enjoy a cup of brewed brick tea, which aids digestion, refreshes the palate, and leaves a lingering aftertaste.

Legend has it that during the prosperous Tang Dynasty, a group of Arab merchants traveled along the Silk Road to do business in Chang’an. One noon, as they reached the vast Gobi Desert at the foot of the Qilian Mountains, they set up tents to cook. They placed sliced meat, prepared seasonings, and flour on a small table. Suddenly, a fierce wind arose, blowing down the tent. In a rush to tidy up, the cook quickly stretched out his arms to gather the meat, seasonings, and flour—but the strong wind mixed all three together. With no time to waste, the cook had a flash of inspiration and steamed the combined meat-flour mixture over a fire. To everyone’s surprise, the result was a delicious meal that left them all smiling, praising how filling and flavorful the lunch was. They packed the leftovers to eat later in the afternoon, reheating them, and found the taste even better. When they arrived in Chang’an, the cook replicated the dish, opened a street-side stall selling this unique meat dish, and named it “Steamed Lamb and Beef with Flour.” Its convenience, ready-to-eat nature, and portability made it an instant hit, and over time, it became a renowned and distinctive snack in Chang’an.

Features: Steamed Lamb and Beef with Flour is praised as a “Chang’an convenient delicacy,” known for its golden-yellow hue, rich yet non-greasy taste, soft and tender texture, and uniquely delightful flavor.