Shanxi Lamb Offal Soup: A True Taste of Northern China （羊杂割）
1. Origin and History
Lamb Offal Soup originates from Taiyuan, Shanxi. Legend traces it back to the Yuan Dynasty. It blends Northern Chinese and nomadic flavors, showing the bold and practical cooking style of the North.
2. Cultural Significance
Known as the “King of Shanxi Breakfasts,” it reflects daily city life. The dish symbolizes the warmth, simplicity, and generosity of Northern people.
3. Key Ingredients
Main ingredients include lamb heart, liver, lung, tripe, and intestines. Shanxi aged vinegar, cilantro, and chili oil enhance the flavor. The rich, milky broth comes from long-simmered lamb bones. The offal is tender yet slightly chewy.
4. Cooking Method
Shanxi uses a unique “boil, simmer, then slice” technique. Offal is cleaned, blanched, then simmered with bones, ginger, scallions, and spices for hours. Before serving, it’s sliced and poured with steaming broth to release aroma instantly.
5. Flavor Profile
The soup is rich and savory. Offal is soft with slight bounce. Vinegar balances the richness, and chili oil adds heat. Every bite spreads warmth through your body.
6. How to Eat
Pair it with Shanxi-style baked flatbread (“bingzi”) or scallion pancakes. Tear pieces, soak in soup, and enjoy. This is the Northern favorite “soup and bread” combo.
7. Tasting Tips
Try it at any breakfast shop or halal restaurant in Taiyuan or Datong. Recommended spot: “Hao Ganggang Lamb Offal Soup,” open for nearly 30 years. Price: 15–25 RMB per bowl. Order by saying: “One bowl of zagé, with a bingzi,” add chili if you like spice.
8. Visitor Tips
In English, it’s called “Lamb Offal Soup” or “Shanxi Lamb Broth.” This dish suits those who love rich broth and offal. Be brave and try it!
How It’s Made
- Clean fresh lamb offal (heart, liver, lung, tripe, intestines) and blanch to remove odor.
- Simmer with lamb bones, ginger, scallions, Sichuan pepper, and a bit of Chinese angelica for 3–4 hours.
- Remove offal, cool, and slice thinly.
- Place offal in a bowl, sprinkle cilantro, pour hot broth, add vinegar or chili oil to taste.
Why Try It
This isn’t just soup. It’s a taste of Shanxi’s warmth and bold spirit. Add Lamb Offal Soup to your China food bucket list—it may change how you see breakfast forever!
