What Is Lamb Slices?
Rolled lamb rolls — most often leg of lamb or shoulder — are sliced paper-thin and frozen into neat cylinders before being cut into flower-like rounds. Lamb has a distinctly earthy, slightly gamey fragrance that pairs beautifully with sesame paste dipping sauce. In Beijing-style Mongolian hot pot, lamb slices ARE the dish — everything else is secondary. Look for pale pink slices with a thin layer of white fat at the edge.
Flavor & Texture
Flavor
Earthy, mildly gamey, savory depth
Texture
Tender with a slight chew, not as silky as beef
How to Cook Lamb Slices in Hot Pot
CLEANING: Buy pre-sliced lamb rolls from Asian grocery freezer section. If using fresh leg/shoulder, semi-freeze for 20–30 minutes first, then slice 2–3mm thin at an angle against the grain. The fat cap can remain — it adds flavor.
CUTTING: Each slice should show the characteristic lamb roll pattern with a thin fat edge. Pre-made lamb rolls come in decorative flower-shaped cross-sections. Thaw at room temperature 10 minutes before cooking — do not microwave.
HOW TO COOK: Fan slices separately into boiling broth. Lamb benefits from a slightly longer swish than beef — 30–40 seconds — to allow the fat to fully render.
DONENESS CUE: Fully grey-brown throughout with translucent fat. The slight gaminess mellows when fully cooked. Cut a thicker piece to check the center if uncertain.
PRO TIP: The classic Beijing pairing is sesame paste (芝麻酱) mixed with fermented bean curd (腐乳) and chive flower paste (韭菜花). This combination is rarely improved upon. Don't overthink the dip.
Best Broths to Pair With
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I cook Lamb Slices in hot pot?
Cook Lamb Slices for 20–40 seconds. CLEANING: Buy pre-sliced lamb rolls from Asian grocery freezer section. If using fresh leg/shoulder, semi-freeze for 20–30 minutes first, then slice 2–3mm thin at an angle against the grain. The f...
What does Lamb Slices taste like?
Lamb Slices has a earthy, mildly gamey, savory depth flavor. Texture: tender with a slight chew, not as silky as beef.
Which hot pot broth goes best with Lamb Slices?
Lamb Slices pairs best with: Clear Bone Broth, Mongolian Milk Broth, Sichuan Mala.
