Craving a vibrant and flavorful dish that's both comforting and surprisingly light? Look no further than this Seafood Mapo Glass Noodles recipe! This unique twist on the classic Mapo Tofu incorporates succulent seafood – think shrimp, scallops, and mussels – for a delightful umami punch. The silky smooth glass noodles soak up the spicy, savory sauce beautifully, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. Forget heavy, oily versions; this recipe prioritizes fresh, bright flavors and a satisfyingly lighter texture, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
This adaptation maintains the heart of Mapo Tofu's fiery kick and rich depth of flavor, but with a seafood-centric upgrade. The combination of tender seafood, spicy sauce, and delicate noodles makes for an unforgettable culinary experience. Ready to embark on this delicious adventure? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions below!
Tools Needed
- wok or large pan
- spatula
Ingredients
- Glass Noodles
- Seafood (shrimp, squid, etc.)
- Ground Pork or Tofu
- Doubanjiang (fermented chili bean paste)
- Soy Sauce
- Shaoxing Rice Wine
- Ginger
- Garlic
- Scallions
- Cornstarch
- Vegetable Oil
- Water
- Sugar
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare and Cook the Base
- Prepare the ingredients. Soak glass noodles according to package directions.
- Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large pan over medium-high heat.
- Add minced ginger and garlic, sauté until fragrant.
- Add ground pork (or tofu) and cook until browned.
- Add doubanjiang and stir-fry for a minute.
Step 2. Add Seafood and Noodles
- Add seafood, soy sauce, shaoxing rice wine, and sugar. Stir-fry until seafood is cooked through.
- Add soaked glass noodles and water. Bring to a simmer and cook until noodles are tender.
Step 3. Thicken and Finish
- Mix cornstarch with a little cold water to make a slurry. Add to the wok to thicken the sauce.
Step 4. Serve
- Garnish with chopped scallions and serve hot.
Read more: Shojin Ryori: Delicious Buddhist Vegetarian Recipes
Tips
- Adjust the amount of doubanjiang to your spice preference.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers.
- For a vegetarian version, replace ground pork with firm tofu.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the seafood?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite seafood, such as cod, crab, or even imitation crab meat. Adjust cooking time accordingly based on the seafood's thickness.
2. What if I don't have glass noodles?
Regular noodles (such as thin spaghetti or egg noodles) can be used as a substitute, but the texture will be different. Be mindful of cooking time to avoid overcooking.
3. Can I make this dish less spicy?
Yes! Reduce the amount of chili oil or chili flakes, or omit them entirely for a milder flavor. You can also add a touch more soy sauce or sugar to balance the taste.
This Seafood Mapo Tofu with Glass Noodles recipe offers a delightful twist on a classic, showcasing the versatility of Mapo Tofu while maintaining its signature bold flavors. The result is a satisfying and flavorful dish that’s both elegant and easy to prepare. Enjoy this unique culinary fusion that's sure to become a new favorite!