Escape the ordinary with this vibrant and flavorful Thai-inspired stir-fry featuring fragrant flowers and savory soybean paste. This isn't your average vegetable dish; it's a culinary adventure showcasing the delicate sweetness of blossoms paired with the rich, umami depth of fermented soybeans. Imagine the intoxicating aroma of blooming flowers mingling with the comforting warmth of garlic, ginger, and chilies – a symphony of textures and tastes that will tantalize your senses. The unexpected combination of ingredients creates a surprisingly harmonious and unforgettable dish, perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion.
This recipe is surprisingly simple to execute, even for novice cooks. We’ll guide you through each step, from preparing the flowers to achieving the perfect balance of flavors. Ready to embark on this fragrant culinary journey? Let’s dive into the step-by-step process and create a truly unforgettable Stir-fried Fragrant Flowers with Soybean Paste.
Tools Needed
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Wok or frying pan
Ingredients
- Pork: 250 grams
- Fragrant Flowers (Bai Hor Fah)
- Garlic: 6 cloves
- Red Chili Peppers: 4-5
- Soybean Paste (Tao Chiew): 2 tablespoons
- Cooking Oil
- Seasoning Powder
- Sugar
- MSG (optional)
- Water (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients and Aromatics
- Cut the pork into bite-sized pieces. Use fatty pork for extra flavor.
- Cut the fragrant flowers into bite-sized pieces.
- Chop the garlic and chili peppers roughly.
Step 2. Stir-fry Pork and Season
- Add oil to the wok. Add the chili, garlic, and soybean paste. Stir-fry until fragrant.
- Add the pork and stir-fry until cooked through. Add water if needed, but the fragrant flowers will release their own moisture.
- Season with seasoning powder, sugar, and MSG (optional).
Step 3. Add Fragrant Flowers and Combine
- Add the fragrant flowers and stir-fry until everything is well combined.
Step 4. Adjust and Serve
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot.
Read more: Thai Basil Pork: A Quick & Easy Recipe (with Fried Egg!)
Tips
- If you prefer less fatty pork, choose a leaner cut.
- Adjust the amount of soybean paste according to your preference and the saltiness of your brand.
- Add water if you prefer a wetter dish.
- Omit soy sauce if desired.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. What types of flowers can I use in this stir-fry?
Edible flowers like pansies, nasturtiums, and zucchini blossoms work best. Avoid flowers that have been treated with pesticides.
2. Can I substitute the soybean paste?
While soybean paste gives the dish its unique flavor, you can try a milder fermented paste like miso paste, but the flavor profile will change.
This fragrant flower stir-fry with soybean paste offers a delightful twist on traditional Thai cuisine, showcasing the unexpected beauty of edible blossoms. The simple yet elegant recipe is perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a unique and flavorful meal. Enjoy the exquisite balance of textures and tastes – a truly memorable culinary experience awaits!