Chinese Noodle Pancakes with Asparagus

Chinese Noodle Pancakes with Asparagus Recipe - Authentic Flavors from China

Region / culture: China | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Chinese Noodle Pancakes with Asparagus is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the flavors of fresh noodles, asparagus, and a savory sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal or a special occasion.

History

Chinese Noodle Pancakes with Asparagus is a traditional Chinese dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. The combination of noodles and asparagus creates a unique and flavorful dish that is both satisfying and delicious.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) fresh chinese wheat noodles
0.5 lb (227 g) fresh asparagus
2 tbsp canola oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp minced fresh ginger root
1 cup water
1 tbsp cornstarch
2 tbsp chinese rice wine
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp fermented black beans
8 oz (227 g) spinach with stems, rinsed
2 tsp dark sesame oil
salt and pepper to taste

How to prepare

Boil the noodles for approximately 6-7 minutes.
Cut the asparagus into 2-inch lengths.
Add ginger and garlic to a wok and cook for approximately 2 minutes.
Add cornstarch, water, rice wine, soy sauce, and black beans to make the sauce. Bring the sauce to a boil and add spinach.
Flatten the noodles until they are browned.
Add sesame oil, salt, and pepper, and serve.

Variations

Add shrimp or chicken for added protein.
Use different vegetables such as bell peppers or broccoli.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the noodles until they are al dente to ensure they hold up well in the pancake.

- Make sure to cut the asparagus into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.

- Adjust the seasoning of the sauce to suit your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chinese Noodle Pancakes with Asparagus with a side of steamed rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Boil the noodles until al dente.

- Stir-fry the vegetables until tender-crisp.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use spaghetti or linguine if you can't find Chinese wheat noodles.

- Substitute green beans or snap peas for asparagus.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the sauce and cut the vegetables ahead of time for a quicker meal prep.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Chinese Noodle Pancakes with Asparagus with a glass of white wine or green tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Chinese Noodle Pancakes with Asparagus contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Chinese Noodle Pancakes with Asparagus contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Chinese Noodle Pancakes with Asparagus contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Chinese Noodle Pancakes with Asparagus contains approximately 15 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains wheat and soy allergens.

Summary

Chinese Noodle Pancakes with Asparagus is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Chinese Noodle Pancakes with Asparagus is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is perfect for a quick and easy meal. With a balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, this dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Chinese Noodle Pancakes with Asparagus. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend, Mrs. Wu, in her bustling kitchen in Chinatown. Mrs. Wu was a master in the art of Chinese cooking, and I always loved watching her effortlessly create delicious dishes from scratch.

On that particular day, Mrs. Wu was preparing a special meal for her family, and I was lucky enough to be invited to watch and learn. As she moved gracefully around the kitchen, her hands expertly slicing and dicing ingredients, I couldn't help but be in awe of her skill.

I watched as she combined flour, eggs, and water to create a smooth batter, then added in cooked noodles and asparagus to give the pancakes a unique texture and flavor. Mrs. Wu explained that the key to making these pancakes perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside was to cook them slowly in a hot pan, allowing them to brown evenly.

As I watched Mrs. Wu cook, I made mental notes of every step, every ingredient, and every technique she used. I knew that I had to recreate this dish in my own kitchen one day.

After the meal was finished and we had all enjoyed a delicious lunch, Mrs. Wu graciously shared her recipe with me. She wrote it down on a piece of yellowed paper, the ink fading with age, and handed it to me with a smile.

Over the years, I have made these Chinese Noodle Pancakes with Asparagus countless times, adapting the recipe to suit my own tastes and preferences. I have added in my own twist, using different types of noodles and adding in extra vegetables for a healthier version of the dish.

Each time I make these pancakes, I am transported back to that sunny day in Mrs. Wu's kitchen, watching her create magic with a few simple ingredients. I am grateful for her generosity in sharing her knowledge and skills with me, and I am proud to carry on the tradition of cooking these delicious pancakes in my own home.

Now, whenever I make these Chinese Noodle Pancakes with Asparagus for my family and friends, they always ask for the recipe. I smile and tell them the story of how I learned to make them, passing on the knowledge and love that Mrs. Wu shared with me all those years ago.

As I stand in my own kitchen, mixing together the flour, eggs, and water to create the batter, I can't help but feel grateful for the memories and experiences that have brought me to this moment. Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with others, to share stories and laughter over a delicious meal.

And as I take a bite of the crispy, savory pancake, with the tender asparagus adding a burst of freshness, I know that this recipe will always hold a special place in my heart. It is not just a dish, but a reminder of the friendships, lessons, and love that have shaped me into the cook I am today.