Saying that the Chinese invented everything may seem like an exaggeration, but in the case of noodles, at least, history supports them. Welcome, dear followers, to a Chinese invention, as its name suggests: Chinese noodles .
Versatile and filling, Chinese noodles are ideal for combining with a wide variety of ingredients and creating different dishes with varying consistencies. Whether with meat, chicken, seafood, or vegetables, in soups, stews, stir-fries, etc. You're probably wondering if we're talking about noodles, and the answer is yes.
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About Chinese noodles
The recipe we're going to cover today is for Chinese noodles with vegetables in a wok . If you've already learned how to properly and easily make a vegetable wok, you're already halfway there, so the recipe will turn out perfect the first time. If you're new to wok cooking, don't worry; we'll give you the necessary tips.
The oldest noodles in the world
Chinese noodles have a long history dating back thousands of years to ancient China . Chinese noodles are believed to have been invented during the Han Dynasty, which ruled from 206 BC to 220 AD. However, some researchers suggest they may have existed even earlier.
Chinese noodles quickly spread throughout China and became a staple food. Over the centuries, different varieties of noodles developed in different regions of China, each with its own unique style and preparation technique.
Its symbolism
Chinese noodles are often associated with longevity and are considered a symbol of good fortune in Chinese culture . The long, uncut noodles are served on special occasions such as Chinese New Year , and eating them is believed to represent a long and prosperous life.
What are Chinese noodles and how are they made?
Chinese noodles are a popular form of pasta made from wheat flour, rice, sweet potato, buckwheat, or other similar ingredients. They can come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and textures, depending on the variety and preparation method.
Types of Chinese noodles
There are more popular types of Chinese noodles, as detailed below, but there are many other regional varieties and local specialties. Each type of noodle has its own characteristics and is used in different culinary preparations, from stir-fries and soups to steamed dishes.
- Wheat noodles : These are the most popular Chinese noodles and are made with wheat flour. They come in different sizes and can be as thin as angel hair or thicker, like wheat soup noodles.
- Rice noodles : These noodles are made from rice flour and are very common in the cuisine of southern China and other Southeast Asian countries. They are translucent and have a soft, elastic texture.
- Egg noodles : These noodles are made with wheat flour and eggs, giving them a pale yellow color and a richer flavor. They're common in dishes like chow mein .
- Sweet Potato Noodles : Made with sweet potato flour, they have a slightly violet color. They have a smooth texture and a distinctive flavor. They are popular in the cuisine of Shaanxi Province, China.
- Buckwheat noodles : These noodles, also known as soba, are made with buckwheat flour and originate in Japanese cuisine. However, they are also consumed in some regions of China, especially in the north.
- Mung noodles : These are transparent, gelatinous noodles made from mung bean flour. They are common in Southeast Asian cuisine and are also used in some Chinese dishes.
Are Chinese noodles healthy?
Chinese noodles are a source of carbohydrates and provide energy . However, their healthiness can vary depending on the type of noodle and the ingredients used in their preparation. Whole-wheat noodles may be a healthier option due to their fiber content, while refined noodles may have less nutritional value.
Chinese noodles can be relatively low in calories, especially if prepared in dishes based on vegetables and lean proteins. However, this can change if high-fat sauces are added or the noodles are fried, which would increase the calorie content.
One of the highest-calorie and high-fat recipes is fried noodles. Fried noodles are a popular preparation in Chinese cuisine, and while they can be tasty and satisfying, it's important to consume them in moderation due to their calorie and fat content. This is because the typical preparation of fried noodles involves frying them in hot oil until crispy. Vegetables, meat, seafood, or tofu are often added, as well as sauces and seasonings to flavor the dish.
Chinese noodles with vegetables wok recipe
Chinese noodles are used in a wide variety of iconic Chinese dishes. Some famous examples include chow mein (stir-fried noodles with vegetables and meat), lo mein (noodles mixed with meat and sauce), and dim sum (steamed wrapped noodles).
In this case, the recipe we're going to show you is a typical chow mein. The word "Chow Mein" in Chinese literally means "stir-fried noodles." We suggest making it in a wok, but you can also make it in a large skillet. Remember, you can save this recipe as a base and use it with varying ingredients.
- Yield : 4 portions
- Preparation time : 40 minutes
Ingredients
- 200 gr of Chinese noodles
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
- 200 gr of mushrooms, sliced
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 1 red pepper, cut into strips
- 1 green pepper, cut into strips
- 1 spring onion, julienned
- 2 garlic cloves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: white sesame seeds for decoration
How to make Chinese noodles with vegetables step by step
- Boil a large pot of water. Once boiling, add the noodles for 3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for a few seconds. Then, add the chicken strips and cook until golden brown and cooked through. Remove everything from the wok and set aside.
- In the same wok, add the mushrooms and sauté for a few minutes until tender and have released their juices. Add the carrot, red and green bell peppers, and spring onions. Stir-fry for a few minutes until tender but still crunchy.
- Add the cooked noodles and the reserved chicken to the wok. Mix everything well.
- In a separate bowl, mix the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Pour the mixture over the noodles and vegetables in the wok.
- Cook everything together for a couple more minutes, stirring constantly, until the noodles are heated through and the flavors blend.
- Taste and adjust the flavors if necessary. Remove from heat and serve. Sprinkle with white sesame seeds for garnish.
