
Savory Stir-Fried Noodles with Szechuan Peppers
Ingredients
- 8 oz hand-pulled noodles (also known as lo mein)
- 2 Szechuan peppercorns
- 1 tsp ground Szechuan pepper
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as carrots, bell peppers, and snap peas)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Tools Needed
Instructions
Step 1
Begin by preparing the Szechuan pepper crust: Place the Szechuan peppercorns in a spice grinder or mortar and pestle and grind until coarsely ground.
Step 2
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Swirl the oil to coat the pan, then add the ground Szechuan pepper and stir-fry for 10 seconds.
Step 3
Add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, or until they are tender-crisp.
Step 4
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil. Pour the sauce into the skillet and stir-fry for 1 minute, until the sauce is bubbly and slightly thickened.
Step 5
Add the hand-pulled noodles to the skillet and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until the noodles are well coated with the sauce.
Step 6
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of water to make a slurry. Add the slurry to the skillet and stir-fry for 1 minute, until the sauce is thickened and the noodles are well coated.
Step 7
Transfer the noodles to a serving platter and garnish with thinly sliced green onions. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Szechuan pepper?
Szechuan pepper is a type of peppercorn that is native to the Sichuan province in China. It has a unique numbing flavor and is often used in Sichuan cuisine.
Preparation Tips
- Use high-quality Szechuan peppercorns for the best flavor.
- Adjust the amount of Szechuan pepper to your taste.
- Add your favorite vegetables to the stir-fry for added flavor and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a main course or as a side dish.
- Pair with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.