Ingredients
For the Noodles:
The ingredients for this recipe are as follows:
Noodle Ingredients:
- 8 ounces (225g) Japanese or Chinese egg noodles, preferably fresh
- 2 tablespoons (30g) vegetable oil or neutral-tasting oil like canola oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
Noodle Seasoning:
- 1 tablespoon (15g) soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon (15g) oyster sauce (optional, omit for vegetarian/vegan option)
Noodle Topping:
- Scallions or green onions thinly sliced, for garnish
For the Chili Crisp Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons (30g) vegetable oil or neutral-tasting oil like canola oil
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons (10g) grated fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup (60ml) fish sauce, or more to taste (optional)
- 2 tablespoons (30g) rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon (15g) soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon (15g) oyster sauce (optional, omit for vegetarian/vegan option)
- 1/4 cup (60g) chopped fresh cilantro, plus more leaves for garnish
- Chili flakes or sliced red chili peppers (optional)
Shrimp and Toppings:
- 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Sliced scallions or green onions for garnish
• 8 oz (225g) rice noodles
Rice noodles are a staple ingredient in many Asian dishes, including the popular recipe for Shrimp and Noodles with Chili Crisp Sauce. These slender, white or transparent noodles are typically made from rice flour and water, giving them a light, delicate texture that pairs perfectly with a variety of flavors.
To choose the right rice noodles for this recipe, look for a package labeled “rice stick” or “thin rice noodles.” The specific type you need is usually 1/4 inch (6mm) in diameter and 8 inches (20 cm) long. Make sure to check the ingredient list to ensure that the noodles are made from only rice flour and water, without any added preservatives or artificial flavorings.
When shopping for rice noodles, you may also come across different types, such as “thin” or “thick” versions. For this recipe, the thin version is ideal, as it will cook more quickly and have a better texture when paired with the shrimp and chili crisp sauce.
It’s worth noting that rice noodles are relatively inexpensive and widely available at most Asian markets or well-stocked supermarkets. If you’re having trouble finding them in stores, you can also try shopping online or substituting with a different type of noodle, such as soba or udon, although the flavor and texture may not be exactly the same.
When working with rice noodles, it’s essential to cook them according to the package instructions. Typically, this involves soaking the noodles in hot water for 5-7 minutes, or until they become pliable and slightly softened. You can also try cooking the noodles by boiling them in a pot of water for 2-3 minutes, but be careful not to overcook them, as they can quickly become mushy.
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
The use of vegetable oil in cooking is a common practice, particularly when stir-frying or sautéing ingredients to prevent them from burning. In the recipe for Shrimp and Noodles with Chili Crisp Sauce, 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil are required.
Vegetable oil can be used as a neutral-tasting oil that does not add significant flavor to the dish, unlike oils such as olive oil which have a distinct taste. This is ideal when you want the flavors from other ingredients to take center stage in the recipe.
The high smoke point of vegetable oil also makes it suitable for high-heat cooking methods like stir-frying or pan-searing. It can withstand high temperatures without breaking down or smoking, which helps to maintain its health benefits.
Additionally, using a neutral-tasting oil such as vegetable oil allows the chili crisp sauce to be the main flavor contributor in this Shrimp and Noodles with Chili Crisp Sauce Recipe, balancing out the heat from the chili peppers with sweetness and savory flavors.
Overall, incorporating 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil into the recipe ensures a smooth, well-cooked dish while preserving the integrity of the other ingredients’ unique tastes.
For the Shrimp:
To prepare the **shrimp** for the recipe, you will need to gather the following ingredients:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound of large _shell-on_ **shrimp**, peeled and deveined
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon of **sugar**
- 1/4 teaspoon of _crushed red pepper_ (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
For the Chili Crisp Sauce:
- 1/2 cup of **chili crisp** (available at most Asian markets or online)
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon of _sesame oil_
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
For the Noodles:
- 8 ounces of thin **rice noodles** (such as rice vermicelli or cellophane noodles)
Note: You can also use other types of noodles, such as _egg noodles_ or **udon**, if you prefer.
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
For this Shrimp and Noodles with Chili Crisp Sauce recipe, you’ll need **1 pound** of large shrimp that are _peeled and deveined_.
This means that you should start by selecting a batch of shrimp that have already had their shells removed and the veins (the dark intestinal tract) taken out. This is typically done to make the shrimp easier to cook with and to improve their texture in recipes like this one.
You can usually find _peeled and deveined_ shrimp in most supermarkets, often near the raw shrimp or in the seafood department. They may be labeled as “easy peel” or “pre-peeled” depending on where you shop.
When purchasing your **1 pound** of large shrimp, make sure to check their freshness by looking for any signs of spoilage, such as a strong fishy smell or slimy texture. Fresh shrimp should have a mild smell and firm texture.
Also, be aware that some recipes may call for _shrimp tail removed_, but this is not necessary in this particular recipe since the tail will be easily removable once cooked.
In any case, using **1 pound** of large _peeled and deveined_ shrimp will provide a generous serving size for your Shrimp and Noodles with Chili Crisp Sauce dish, so feel free to adjust the quantity based on your personal preferences or number of guests you’re planning to serve.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
When it comes to preparing the delicious Shrimp and Noodles with Chili Crisp Sauce recipe, one crucial component that contributes significantly to its flavor profile is the humble garlic. Specifically, we’re working with two cloves of this aromatic bulb, which need to be minced before incorporating them into our dish.
The task of mincing the garlic requires a bit of finesse and technique to achieve optimal results. To begin, simply take your two cloves of garlic and place them on a cutting board in front of you. Hold one clove firmly with one hand, and with the other hand, use a chef’s knife or a small paring knife to gently rock it back and forth over the cutting board.
This motion will cause the cell walls within the garlic clove to break down, releasing its oils and resulting in a smooth, paste-like texture. You can also use a microplane or a fine grater to mince the garlic if you prefer. The key is to aim for a consistency that’s evenly distributed, with no visible chunks of garlic left behind.
It’s worth noting that when working with garlic, it’s essential to be mindful of its pungency and potential impact on your dish. Raw or over-minced garlic can overpower the other flavors in your Shrimp and Noodles recipe. However, a gentle mincing will help release just the right amount of flavor without overwhelming your palate.
Once you’ve achieved the perfect minced garlic consistency, be sure to add it to your mixture according to the recipe instructions. In this case, we’re combining the minced garlic with chili crisp sauce, shrimp, and noodles for a deliciously spicy and savory experience that will leave you wanting more!
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
Ginger is a key ingredient in many Asian-inspired dishes, and its presence in this recipe adds depth and warmth to the Shrimp and Noodles with Chili Crisp Sauce.
The amount of ginger called for in this recipe is 1 tablespoon, which may seem like a small quantity compared to other ingredients. However, it’s essential to note that grated fresh ginger has a more concentrated flavor than ground ginger or crystallized ginger.
Here are some tips on using grated fresh ginger effectively:
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Use the correct tool: A grater or fine grater is the best tool to use when preparing grated ginger. This will help to avoid any stringy or fibrous texture that can be unpleasant.
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Handle it carefully: Fresh ginger can stain clothes and surfaces, so handle it with care to avoid accidents.
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Use the right amount: Too much grated ginger can overpower the dish, while too little might not make an impact. Start with the recommended amount and adjust according to taste.
Ginger has numerous health benefits that make it a great addition to this recipe. It contains compounds like gingerol and shogaol, which have anti-inflammatory properties and can help alleviate nausea and digestive issues.
Sauce
Chili Crisp Sauce:
Sauce, specifically chili crisp sauce, plays a vital role in elevating the flavors of various dishes, including the popular Shrimp and Noodles with Chili Crisp Sauce recipe.
Chili crisp sauce is a condiment made from a mixture of chili peppers, oil, garlic, ginger, and sometimes vinegar or other spices.
The origins of chili crisp sauce can be traced back to Sichuan province in China, where the Sichuan peppercorn is a staple ingredient.
In its traditional form, the sauce is made by combining roasted chilies with Sichuan peppercorns, garlic, ginger, and sometimes salt and oil.
The resulting sauce has a unique numbing sensation on the tongue, due to the presence of Sichuan peppercorns, which are actually not peppers but the dried berries of the Prickly Ash tree.
Chili crisp sauce is often used as a condiment to add depth and heat to various dishes, such as noodles, stir-fries, and braises.
For the Shrimp and Noodles with Chili Crisp Sauce recipe, the chili crisp sauce serves several purposes:
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Adds heat and depth of flavor to the dish
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Enhances the aroma of the shrimp and noodles
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Complements the textures of the ingredients, from the tender noodles to the succulent shrimp
When making chili crisp sauce for this recipe, it’s essential to balance the heat level with other flavors to avoid overpowering the dish.
The Sichuan peppercorns should be used in moderation, as they can quickly overwhelm the other ingredients.
A good starting point is to use one-quarter teaspoon of Sichuan peppercorns per tablespoon of chili peppers.
Other ingredients, such as garlic and ginger, can be adjusted to taste, but it’s generally a good idea to err on the side of caution when adding these aromatics.
The resulting sauce should have a balanced flavor profile, with a harmonious blend of heat, spice, and aroma.
This chili crisp sauce recipe makes about 1/2 cup (120 ml) of sauce, which can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
The sauce is a crucial component of the Shrimp and Noodles with Chili Crisp Sauce recipe, adding a depth of flavor that elevates the dish from ordinary to extraordinary.
To make the sauce, you’ll need:
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/4 cup chili crisp paste (see notes)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Red pepper flakes, to taste
- Cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
The vegetable oil is used as a base for the sauce, providing a neutral flavor that won’t overpower the other ingredients.
To use this oil in making the sauce, simply heat it in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger and stir-fry until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
Next, add the chili crisp paste and stir-fry for another minute, breaking up any lumps with a spatula as it cooks.
The soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sugar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes are then added to the wok or skillet, stirring to combine with the garlic-ginger-chili mixture. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, until slightly thickened.
The finished sauce is smooth, creamy, and spicy – the perfect accompaniment to the shrimp and noodles in this recipe!
• 2 tablespoons Sambal Oelek (chili paste)
Sauce plays a crucial role in many Asian-inspired dishes, adding depth and heat to various recipes. In the context of the Shrimp and Noodles with Chili Crisp Sauce recipe, sauce takes center stage as a key component that elevates the flavors of the dish.
The sauce is often the most critical element that brings all the ingredients together in harmony, creating a harmonious balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors. In the case of the Shrimp and Noodles with Chili Crisp Sauce recipe, the sauce serves as an emulsion of flavors, marrying the rich, savory essence of the shrimp, the nutty flavor of the noodles, and the pungency of the chili peppers.
Sauce can be categorized into various types, each with its unique texture and consistency. For example, some sauces are thick and creamy, while others are light and watery. In the context of this recipe, a thin sauce is preferred to coat the noodles and shrimp evenly without overpowering them.
The Sambal Oelek, which is added as 2 tablespoons in the Shrimp and Noodles with Chili Crisp Sauce Recipe, plays a significant role in giving the sauce its distinctive flavor and texture. This chili paste has a coarse texture due to the crushed chili peppers and garlic used in its production.
The chili paste’s coarse texture provides an immediate burst of flavor when it comes into contact with other ingredients. It is essential to mix the Sambal Oelek well with other sauce components, such as soy sauce and vinegar, before combining it with the noodles and shrimp, for the flavors to meld together effectively.
The importance of Sambal Oelek in this recipe cannot be overstated, as its distinctive flavor sets it apart from more generic sauces. Its spicy kick adds a level of complexity that other ingredients may not provide on their own, making it an integral component of this dish’s overall character and allure.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
The art of creating a savory and aromatic sauce to elevate the flavors of your Shrimp and Noodles with Chili Crisp Sauce Recipe lies in understanding the role of each ingredient, including the essential 2 cloves of garlic.
Garlic is one of the fundamental components of this sauce, providing depth, warmth, and an unmistakable aroma that complements the spiciness of the chili crisp. When working with garlic, it’s crucial to understand its role in balance.
To prepare the minced garlic for our sauce, take 2 cloves of fresh garlic and place them on a cutting board. Cut off the top root end from each clove and then slice the cloves lengthwise, following the curve of the garlic. This will help release the enzymes that break down the starches into sugars, enhancing its natural sweetness.
Next, carefully mince the sliced garlic using a chef’s knife or a microplane grater until you achieve your desired consistency. Be sure not to press too hard on the blade as this can cause the garlic to become mushy and overpowering. The goal is to maintain the delicate balance of flavors in our sauce.
The minced garlic will add an unmistakable savory depth to the chili crisp sauce, enhancing its spiciness while balancing out its boldness. As we continue building our sauce with additional ingredients, keep in mind that each component plays a unique role in achieving the perfect harmony of flavors in this Shrimp and Noodles recipe.
Why Garlic Matters in the Chili Crisp Sauce:
• Savory Depth: Garlic adds an unmistakable depth to the sauce, providing warmth and richness that complements the spiciness of the chili crisp.
• Aromatic Boost: The aroma released by garlic enhances the overall fragrance of the dish, making each bite a delightful experience for the senses.
• Balancing Act: Garlic’s subtle sweetness helps balance out the boldness of the chili crisp, preventing it from overwhelming the palate.
Additional Tips and Variations:
If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to your garlic for an extra kick of heat. Alternatively, experiment with different types of garlic, such as elephant garlic or roasted garlic, to discover new flavor profiles.
When working with garlic, always remember that quality matters more than quantity. Choose fresh, plump cloves for the best results and store them properly to maintain their potency. With practice and patience, you’ll develop a deep understanding of how to coax out the full potential from each ingredient in your sauce, creating a truly unforgettable dish.
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
The addition of **soy sauce** to a recipe can greatly enhance the flavor and aroma of the dish, especially when it comes to savory and umami-rich sauces like the Chili Crisp Sauce. In this specific recipe for Shrimp and Noodles with Chili Crisp Sauce, the use of soy sauce is essential in creating a balanced and harmonious taste profile.
Soy sauce, typically made from fermented soybeans, salt, and water, is a staple condiment in many Asian cuisines. Its savory, slightly sweet, and nutty flavors make it an ideal ingredient for marinades, sauces, and braising liquids. In the context of this recipe, the soy sauce serves several purposes:
1. Flavor enhancer: The soy sauce adds a depth of flavor to the dish, particularly when combined with the spicy and savory flavors of the chili crisp sauce. This enhances the overall umami taste experience of the shrimp and noodles.
2. Saltiness balancer: Soy sauce contains salt, which can help balance the sweetness from other ingredients in the recipe, such as the noodles or any added vegetables. This ensures that the dish does not become too sweet or overpowering.
3. Moisture retention: Soy sauce helps to retain moisture in the shrimp and noodles, preventing them from drying out during cooking. This is especially important when using high-heat cooking methods like stir-frying.
When using soy sauce in this recipe, it’s essential to note that a 1-tablespoon serving size is sufficient. Any more than that may overpower the delicate flavors of the shrimp and noodles.
In conclusion, the addition of soy sauce to the Shrimp and Noodles with Chili Crisp Sauce recipe is a deliberate choice made to enhance the overall flavor profile, aroma, and texture of the dish. Its umami-rich taste, balancing effect on saltiness and sweetness, and moisture-retaining properties make it an indispensable ingredient in this recipe.
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
Rice vinegar is a fundamental component in many Asian-inspired sauces, including the chili crisp sauce used in this shrimp and noodles recipe.
The acidity and flavor profile of rice vinegar play a crucial role in balancing the spiciness and richness of the dish.
Here are some key characteristics and uses of rice vinegar:
- Taste Profile**: Rice vinegar has a mild, slightly sweet, and sour taste that complements many flavors.
- Acidity Level**: It is less acidic than other types of vinegar, such as apple cider or white wine vinegar, making it an excellent choice for delicate dishes.
- Use in Marinades**: Rice vinegar can be used to marinate proteins, vegetables, and grains to add flavor and tenderize them.
- Balance of Flavors**: It helps balance the sweetness of ingredients like sugar or honey in sauces and dressings.
When using 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar in a sauce, consider the following:
- Ratio of Ingredients**: The amount of rice vinegar used will depend on the overall flavor profile desired. In this recipe, it’s added to balance out the spiciness and richness of the chili crisp sauce.
- Type of Rice Vinegar**: Use a light or clear rice vinegar for its mild flavor and to avoid any sediment or impurities that may affect the texture and appearance of the sauce.
- Acidity Level Adjustment**: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of rice vinegar. For a bolder taste, increase it accordingly.
Rice vinegar is an essential ingredient in many sauces, and its use can elevate the flavor profile of dishes like shrimp and noodles with chili crisp sauce.
• Salt and pepper to taste
The key to elevating this dish is adding a balanced combination of flavors, particularly the sauce. The term **Sauce** refers to a liquid condiment made from a mixture of ingredients, including herbs, spices, and other seasonings. In this recipe, we’ll focus on creating a savory and slightly spicy sauce to complement our shrimp and noodles.
When it comes to seasoning our sauce, the phrase _”salt and pepper to taste”_ is often used. But what exactly does that mean? Salt enhances flavors by suppressing sweetness and balancing seasonings. It’s essential for bringing out the natural flavors of ingredients. On the other hand, _**Pepper**_ adds a sharpness and warmth that complements salt well.
To “season to taste” means to use your own discretion when adding these two crucial seasonings. However, it’s not just about sprinkling salt and pepper on top of your dish; it’s more about finding the right balance between them. In this recipe, you’ll want to add a small amount of _salt_ to enhance the flavors of the shrimp and noodles, followed by a few grinds of **pepper** to add depth and warmth.
Remember, the beauty of seasoning lies in its subtlety. By adding just the right amount of _salt_ and **pepper**, you can create a harmonious balance of flavors that will elevate your shrimp and noodles dish to new heights.
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