Weeknight Winner: Chinese Vermicelli Noodles Recipe

If you're looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dish, Chinese vermicelli noodles recipe is a great choice. Vermicelli noodles, also known as rice noodles, are a staple in Chinese cuisine and are commonly used in many dishes. Chinese-style vermicelli noodles are a popular choice because they are light, healthy and versatile.

Selecting the right ingredients is key to making a great Chinese vermicelli noodles recipe. You can use a variety of vegetables, meats or seafood to add flavor and texture to your dish. For seafood lovers, shrimp, squid or crab meat can be added to the dish to give it a unique and delicious taste. You can also add tofu or mushrooms for a vegetarian or vegan option.

Preparation techniques for Chinese vermicelli noodles recipe are relatively simple. The noodles need to be cooked until they are al dente, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes. The vegetables and meat should be cut into thin slices or small pieces to ensure they cook quickly and evenly. Once all the ingredients are prepared, they can be stir-fried together in a wok or large frying pan with some oil and seasonings.

Key Takeaways

• Chinese vermicelli noodles recipe is a versatile and healthy dish that can be made with a variety of ingredients.
• Seafood such as shrimp, squid or crab meat can be added to the dish to give it a unique and delicious taste.
• The noodles need to be cooked until they are al dente and the vegetables and meat should be cut into thin slices or small pieces to ensure they cook quickly and evenly.

Selecting Ingredients

When it comes to making Chinese vermicelli noodles, selecting the right ingredients is crucial. Here are some tips to help you choose the best ingredients for your recipe.

Choosing Vermicelli Noodles

The first step in making Chinese vermicelli noodles is to choose the right type of noodles. Vermicelli noodles are thin, translucent noodles made from rice flour. Look for noodles that are thin and delicate in texture. You can find them in most Asian grocery stores.

Proteins and Vegetables

The next step is to choose your proteins and vegetables. You can use a variety of proteins such as shrimp, squid, firm tofu, or chicken. Seafood is a great option to add to your recipe, and you can use shrimp or squid for a delicious seafood twist. Vegetables such as carrots, onion, cabbage, green onion, ginger, bell pepper, bok choy, green beans, and bean sprouts can also be added to your recipe to give it a nutritious boost.

Sauces and Seasonings

To add flavour to your vermicelli noodles, you will need to use a variety of sauces and seasonings. Soy sauce, dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, and shaoxing wine are commonly used in Chinese cuisine and can be added to your recipe to give it a rich, savoury flavour. Garlic, ginger, scallions, and red onion can also be added to your recipe for an extra kick of flavour. Toasted sesame oil and white pepper are also great options to add to your recipe for a nutty, aromatic flavour.

When selecting ingredients for your Chinese vermicelli noodles recipe, be sure to choose fresh, high-quality ingredients. This will ensure that your dish turns out delicious and flavourful. Don't be afraid to experiment with different ingredients to find the perfect combination that suits your taste.

Preparation Techniques

Soaking the Noodles

Before you start cooking with rice vermicelli noodles, you will need to soak them in water. Soaking the noodles will help to soften them up, making them more pliable and easier to work with. Depending on the type of rice vermicelli noodles you are using, you may need to soak them for anywhere from 5 to 15 minutes.

To soak the noodles, simply place them in a large bowl and cover them with cold water. Make sure that the noodles are fully submerged in the water. You can add a pinch of salt to the water to help flavour the noodles, but this is optional.

Chopping and Julienne

To prepare your vegetables for the dish, you will need to chop and julienne them into thin strips. This will help to ensure that they cook evenly and are easy to eat.

For example, you can julienne carrots, bell peppers, and green onions to add some colour and crunch to your dish. You can also add some mung bean sprouts for some added texture.

Marinating Proteins

If you plan to use proteins such as chicken, shrimp, or beef in your dish, it is a good idea to marinate them beforehand. This will help to infuse them with flavour and ensure that they are tender and juicy.

For example, you can marinate your shrimp in a mixture of soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, and corn starch. This will give them a slightly sweet and tangy flavour and help to keep them moist during cooking.

If you are a seafood lover, you can also add some seafood to your dish. For example, you can use prawns, scallops, or squid to add some extra flavour and texture to your dish. Just make sure to cook them properly to avoid any foodborne illnesses.

By following these preparation techniques, you can create a delicious and flavourful Chinese vermicelli noodles dish that is sure to impress your family and friends.

Cooking Method

Stir-Frying Techniques

To start, prepare your wok and make sure it's nice and hot. Add some oil and let it heat up before adding your vermicelli noodles. Stir-fry the noodles for a few minutes, making sure they don't stick to the wok. Add your choice of vegetables, such as green onion or chicken breast meat, and continue stir-frying until they're cooked to your liking.

Layering Flavours

The key to a delicious Chinese vermicelli noodles recipe is layering flavours. Start by adding your seasonings, such as tamari or sambal, to the wok. Then, add your stir-fry sauce and sesame oil to enhance the flavour. You can also add some char siu or scrambled eggs for a more flavourful dish. Finally, garnish with some spring onions for an extra pop of flavour.

Achieving the Perfect Texture

To achieve the perfect texture for your vermicelli noodles, make sure to not overcook them. They should be cooked until they're al dente, which takes about 2-3 minutes. Overcooking them will result in mushy noodles, which is not ideal. Additionally, use a good quality oil such as vegetable or sesame oil to ensure that your noodles don't stick together.

When it comes to seafood, you can add shrimp, squid, or any other seafood of your choice to your Chinese vermicelli noodles recipe. Simply stir-fry the seafood along with the vegetables and seasonings for a quick and delicious meal.

Overall, this recipe is quick and easy to make, and it's a great way to enjoy vermicelli noodles in a flavourful dish. With the right stir-frying techniques, layering of flavours, and attention to achieving the perfect texture, you'll have a delicious meal in no time.

Serving and Presentation

Plating

When it comes to serving vermicelli noodles, presentation is key. Arrange the noodles neatly on a plate or in a bowl, and make sure to include all the toppings and garnishes. You can also add some chopped green onions or cilantro for an extra pop of colour.

Garnishing

Garnishing your vermicelli noodles can add extra flavour and texture to your dish. Try adding some toasted sesame seeds, sliced green onions, or chopped peanuts. You can also add a squeeze of lime juice for a tangy twist.

Pairing with Sides

Vermicelli noodles can be served as a main dish or paired with sides. For a complete meal, try serving your noodles with some stir-fried green cabbage or pressed tofu. You can also pair your noodles with some seafood such as shrimp or scallops for an added protein boost.

When it comes to nutrition, vermicelli noodles are a great option as they are gluten-free and low in saturated fat and sodium. They are also a good source of iron, calcium, and potassium. One serving of vermicelli noodles contains approximately 200 calories and 6 grams of sugar.

When cooking Chinese vermicelli noodles, it's important to follow the recipe closely and pay attention to the nutrition facts and daily value percentages. With the right ingredients and proper preparation, your vermicelli noodles can be both satisfying and crisp, with a touch of sweetness.

So, next time you're looking for a delicious and healthy stir-fry dish, try making some Chinese vermicelli noodles. They're sure to be a hit with your family and friends, and you can even add your own twist by experimenting with different garnishes and sides.

Dietary Considerations

If you're following a vegan diet, you'll be pleased to know that vermicelli noodles are naturally vegan. You can easily create a vegan-friendly recipe by using vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth and substituting oyster sauce with tamari or soy sauce. You can also add your favourite vegetables such as mushrooms, bean sprouts, and firm tofu to make a delicious and nutritious vegan meal.

For those with gluten allergies, vermicelli noodles are a great option since they are made from rice flour and are gluten-free. Be sure to check the ingredients of any sauces or broths you use to ensure they are also gluten-free.

If you have other allergies, be sure to check the ingredients of any sauces or broths you use. Most Asian grocery stores will have a variety of sauces and broths available, so be sure to read the labels carefully and ask for assistance if you're unsure.

When it comes to nutrition, vermicelli noodles are low in calories and fat and are a good source of carbohydrates. They also provide some protein and fibre. To add more protein to your dish, you can add seafood such as shrimp or squid.

When using sauces such as oyster sauce or toasted sesame oil, be mindful of the sodium content. You can reduce the amount of sauce you use or substitute with lower sodium options.

Overall, vermicelli noodles are a versatile and healthy option for a quick and easy meal. With a few modifications, you can create a meal that meets your dietary needs and preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you properly cook vermicelli noodles?

To cook vermicelli noodles, you need to bring a pot of water to a boil, add the noodles, and cook for 3-5 minutes until they are soft and tender. Drain the noodles and rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process.

What's the base ingredient in Chinese vermicelli noodles?

The base ingredient in Chinese vermicelli noodles is rice flour. It is a type of rice noodle that is commonly used in Chinese, Thai, and Vietnamese cuisine.

Can you suggest a simple vegetarian vermicelli noodle dish?

Yes, you can try stir-fried vermicelli noodles with vegetables. You can add any vegetables of your choice, such as bell peppers, carrots, and mushrooms. You can also add tofu or tempeh for protein. For a seafood option, you can add prawns or scallops.

Is there a quick vermicelli noodle recipe for a weeknight dinner?

Yes, you can try stir-fried vermicelli noodles with chicken or beef. Cook the meat first and set it aside. Then, stir-fry the vegetables in the same pan, add the cooked vermicelli noodles, and mix everything together. For a seafood option, you can add squid or mussels.

What are some tips for making a stir-fried vermicelli with egg?

To make a stir-fried vermicelli with egg, you can scramble the eggs in a separate pan and set them aside. Then, stir-fry the vegetables and cooked vermicelli noodles together, add the scrambled eggs, and mix everything together. For a seafood option, you can add crab or lobster.

Are vermicelli noodles considered a healthy option?

Vermicelli noodles are a healthy option as they are low in fat and calories. They are also gluten-free and low in sodium. However, the nutritional value depends on how they are prepared and what ingredients are added. For a healthier option, use more vegetables and lean protein, and limit the use of oil and sauces.