Craving a light yet satisfying Thai dish bursting with fresh flavors? Look no further than this recipe for Stir-Fried Glass Noodles with Cha-om and Shrimp! This vibrant and flavorful dish combines the delicate texture of glass noodles with the unique aroma of cha-om (a Thai herb with a slightly bitter, spinach-like taste) and the sweetness of succulent shrimp. It's a quick and easy weeknight meal perfect for those seeking a healthy and delicious alternative to heavier cuisine. The combination of ingredients creates a symphony of textures and tastes, leaving you feeling refreshed and energized.
This recipe is surprisingly simple to execute, even for novice cooks. The key lies in the careful balance of ingredients and a quick stir-fry technique to prevent the noodles from becoming soggy. Ready to create this culinary masterpiece in your own kitchen? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions below!
Tools Needed
- Pan
- wok
Ingredients
- Oil
- Garlic
- Chili
- Shrimp paste
- White shrimp
- Glass noodles (vermicelli)
- Water
- Lime juice
- Oyster sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Soy sauce: 1/2 teaspoon
- Sugar: 1 teaspoon
- Ground pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
- Young acacia shoots (Cha-om)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Sauté Aromatics and Shrimp
- Heat oil in a pan or wok for stir-frying.
- Add garlic, chili, and shrimp paste. Stir-fry until fragrant and yellow.
- Add peeled and deveined white shrimp. Stir-fry until cooked and turns pink.
Step 2. Cook the Glass Noodles
- Add soaked glass noodles. Stir-fry until noodles are chewy and softened.
- Add a little water or lime juice.
Step 3. Season and Add Cha-om
- Season with oyster sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and ground pepper.
- Add young acacia shoots and stir-fry until fragrant and cooked.
Step 4. Combine and Finish
- Stir-fry everything until well combined and cooked.
Read more: Thai Basil Pork: A Quick & Easy Recipe (with Fried Egg!)
Tips
- Clean the shrimp thoroughly by removing shells, cutting open the back, and taking out the black veins.
- Adjust the amount of sugar to your preference.
- Use high heat for even cooking.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 400-500
- Fat: 15-25g
- Carbs: 50-60g
- Protein: 20-25g
FAQs
1. Can I substitute cha-om if I can't find it?
Yes! Spinach or even regular green beans can be used as a substitute for cha-om. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.
2. How can I prevent the glass noodles from becoming sticky or mushy?
Make sure to soak the glass noodles according to package directions *before* adding them to the stir-fry. Add them towards the end of cooking and stir-fry quickly over medium-high heat.
This Stir-Fried Glass Noodles with Cha-om and Shrimp recipe is a testament to the beauty of simple, fresh Thai cuisine. Enjoy this light and flavorful dish as a satisfying meal or a delightful side, and don't hesitate to experiment with other vegetables or proteins to personalize it to your liking. Happy cooking!