Cold Bean Sprout Sesame Noodles

Cold Bean Sprout Sesame Noodles Recipe | USA | Ingredients

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Cold Bean Sprout Sesame Noodles is a refreshing and flavorful dish that is perfect for a hot summer day. The combination of tender mung bean sprouts, chewy egg noodles, and crunchy cucumber, all tossed in a savory sesame dressing, makes for a delicious and satisfying meal.

History

This recipe is a modern take on traditional Asian noodle dishes that often feature bean sprouts and sesame oil. The addition of chicken and cucumber adds protein and freshness to the dish, making it a well-rounded and balanced meal.

Ingredients

1 cup of mung bean sprouts
12 oz (340 g) of egg noodles
4.5 tbsp of sesame oil, divided
1 cucumber
3 tbsp of red rice, red wine or balsamic vinegar
2 tbsp of soy sauce
2 tsp of granulated sugar
1 tsp of hot chili oil
1 cup of cooked chicken, shredded
2 tbsp of toasted sesame seeds

How to prepare

Rinse the mung bean sprouts and thoroughly drain them.
Cook the noodles according to the package directions. Drain them thoroughly and toss with 1 to 0.5 tbsp of sesame oil.
Peel the cucumber, cut it in half lengthwise, remove the seeds, and julienne it.
To prepare the sauce, combine the remaining sesame oil, vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, and hot chili oil. Set it aside.
To serve, place the noodles on a serving plate. Arrange the cooked chicken, cucumber, and bean sprouts on top. Pour the sauce over them. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds. Serve cold.

Variations

For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and add tofu or tempeh for protein.
Add sliced bell peppers or shredded carrots for extra crunch and color.
Use rice noodles or soba noodles instead of egg noodles for a gluten-free option.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to thoroughly drain the mung bean sprouts to prevent the dish from becoming too watery.

- Tossing the cooked noodles in sesame oil helps prevent them from sticking together and adds a nutty flavor to the dish.

- Julienne the cucumber for a visually appealing presentation and a nice crunch in every bite.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Cold Bean Sprout Sesame Noodles as a main dish for lunch or dinner. Pair it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Boil the noodles until al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy.

- Toast the sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden brown and fragrant for added flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute rice vinegar for balsamic vinegar for a milder flavor.

- Use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar for a natural sweetener.

- Replace hot chili oil with sriracha or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Make Ahead Tips

This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will continue to meld together, making it even more delicious.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Cold Bean Sprout Sesame Noodles with fresh cilantro or green onions for a pop of color and flavor. Serve it in individual bowls or on a large platter for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, to complement the flavors of the sesame dressing and chicken. For a non-alcoholic option, try a refreshing iced green tea or sparkling water with a splash of lime.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the noodles in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth to prevent them from drying out.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 380 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 45g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 18g per serving

Saturated Fat: 3g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 15g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and iron from the bean sprouts and cucumber.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy and sesame, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

This dish is a balanced meal with a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for a light and satisfying meal.

Summary

Cold Bean Sprout Sesame Noodles is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light and refreshing meal. With a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, as well as vitamins and minerals, this dish is a healthy and satisfying option for any occasion. Enjoy the flavors of sesame, chicken, and crunchy vegetables in every bite of this tasty noodle dish.

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Cold Bean Sprout Sesame Noodles. It was a hot summer day, much like today, and I had wandered into a small, bustling market in Chinatown. The air was filled with the enticing aromas of various spices and herbs, and I couldn't help but be drawn in by the vibrant colors of the fresh produce on display.

As I meandered through the market, my eyes fell upon a little stand tucked away in a corner. The sign above it read "Mama Li's Homemade Noodles." Intrigued, I made my way over and saw an elderly woman with a warm smile cooking up a storm. Her hands moved with practiced ease as she tossed noodles in a wok, the scent of sesame oil wafting through the air.

I couldn't resist the temptation and ordered a bowl of the Cold Bean Sprout Sesame Noodles. As I took my first bite, I was transported to a world of flavors and textures that I had never experienced before. The noodles were perfectly cooked, the bean sprouts crunchy, and the sesame dressing rich and nutty. It was a symphony of tastes that danced on my taste buds.

I knew right then and there that I needed to learn how to make this dish. I approached Mama Li and asked her if she would be willing to teach me her recipe. To my delight, she agreed and invited me to her home the following week.

Mama Li's home was a cozy little space filled with the scents of simmering broths and sizzling stir-fries. She welcomed me with open arms and we got straight to work. She showed me how to make the noodles from scratch, kneading the dough until it was smooth and elastic. We rolled it out into thin sheets and cut them into delicate strands, which we boiled until they were just al dente.

Next, Mama Li taught me how to make the sesame dressing. She toasted sesame seeds in a dry pan until they were golden brown, then ground them into a fine powder. She mixed this with soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a touch of sugar, creating a sauce that was both savory and slightly sweet.

Finally, we assembled the dish. We tossed the cold noodles with the sesame dressing, adding in crisp bean sprouts and a sprinkling of chopped green onions. The end result was a masterpiece of flavors and textures that I knew I would never forget.

As I sat down to enjoy the fruits of our labor, Mama Li regaled me with stories of her own culinary journey. She had traveled far and wide, learning recipes from different cultures and regions. She had a keen eye for ingredients and a passion for experimentation, which had led her to create dishes that were truly unique.

I listened intently, soaking up every word like a sponge. Mama Li's wisdom and experience were like a treasure trove of knowledge that I was eager to tap into. By the end of the day, I had not only learned how to make Cold Bean Sprout Sesame Noodles, but I had also gained a newfound appreciation for the art of cooking.

From that day on, I made Mama Li's recipe a regular staple in my own kitchen. It became a dish that I would often make for family gatherings and special occasions, a reminder of the day I had stumbled upon a hidden gem in that bustling market in Chinatown.

Now, as I pass on this recipe to you, my dear grandchild, I hope that you will cherish it as much as I have. Let it be a reminder of the power of food to bring people together, to create memories, and to nourish both body and soul. And who knows, perhaps one day you too will stumble upon a recipe that will change your culinary world forever.