Easy Asian Dinners: Healthy & Delicious

A symphony of textures and tastes, this dish is a culinary journey through the heart of Asia. Inspired by the fiery spices of Sichuan, the delicate flavors of Japanese cuisine, and the bold aromatics of Thai cooking, Dragon’s Kiss Noodles is a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation.

Ingredients:

Noodles:

8 ounces rice noodles

Protein:

1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined

1/2 pound thinly sliced sirloin steak

Vegetables:

1 cup snow peas, trimmed

1/2 cup sugar snap peas, trimmed

1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced

1 green onion, thinly sliced

Sauce:

1/4 cup soy sauce

2 tablespoons rice vinegar

2 tablespoons oyster sauce

1 tablespoon honey

1 tablespoon sesame oil

2 teaspoons grated ginger

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Garnish:

Sesame seeds

Fresh cilantro

Image Source: slenderkitchen.com

Preparation:

Total Time: 30 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes

1. Cook the Noodles: Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Protein: Heat a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add a little oil and cook the shrimp until pink and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside. Add a little more oil to the pan and cook the steak until desired doneness. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the snow peas, sugar snap peas, and red bell pepper to the hot pan. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until crisp-tender. Remove from the pan and set aside.
4. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, oyster sauce, honey, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes.
5. Combine and Serve: Return the shrimp and steak to the pan. Add the cooked noodles, vegetables, and sauce. Toss to coat. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro.

Serving Suggestions:

Elevated Presentation: Serve in individual bowls, garnished with a drizzle of chili oil and a sprinkle of microgreens.

Family-Style Feast: Serve family-style on a large platter, accompanied by steamed rice and a side of stir-fried bok choy.

Quick and Easy Weeknight Meal: Serve over a bed of mixed greens with a side of edamame.

A Fusion of Cultures

Dragon’s Kiss Noodles is a testament to the global nature of cuisine. The bold flavors of Sichuan, the delicate balance of Japanese umami, and the vibrant aromatics of Thai cuisine come together in this one dish. Each ingredient, each spice, tells a story of distant lands and ancient traditions. As you savor the complex flavors and textures, you’re not just enjoying a meal; you’re embarking on a culinary journey through the heart of Asia.