Di San Xian
Di San Xian, which translates to "three treasures of the earth," is a classic dish hailing from the northeastern regions of China, particularly popular in Dongbei cuisine. This vegetarian delight celebrates the harmonious combination of three main vegetables: potatoes, eggplants, and bell peppers. Known for its savory and slightly sweet flavors, Di San Xian is often enjoyed as a staple dish in Chinese households. The dish arose as a way to utilize seasonal vegetables and to create a hearty meal with minimal ingredients, showcasing the innovative spirit of Chinese home cooking.
Ingredients
- Potatoes - 2 medium-sized
- Eggplants - 1 large
- Bell Peppers - 1, red or green
- Cooking oil - for frying (vegetable oil or any neutral oil)
- Soy sauce - 3 tablespoons
- Sugar - 1 tablespoon
- Garlic - 3 cloves, minced
- Ginger - 1 inch, minced
- Spring onions - for garnish
- Salt - to taste
- Water - as needed
Preparation
Before we dive into the cooking process, it is crucial to properly prepare our main ingredients: the potatoes, eggplants, and bell peppers. Wash and peel the potatoes, then cut them into bite-sized wedges. For the eggplants, slice them into rounds or wedges, approximately the same size as the potatoes. Finally, chop the bell peppers into similar-sized pieces. This uniformity ensures even frying and cooking times.
Step 1: Frying the Vegetables
Set your cooking timer and heat a generous amount of oil in a frying pan or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, start by frying the potatoes until they turn golden brown and develop a crispy exterior. Use a slotted spoon to remove them, setting them aside on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
Next, fry the eggplants in the hot oil until they become soft and lightly browned. Like the potatoes, remove the eggplants with a slotted spoon and let them drain on a paper towel. Proceed to fry the bell peppers, cooking them until slightly softened but still vibrant in color. Once done, combine all fried vegetables together in the same plate.
Step 2: Creating the Sauce
To craft the rich and flavorful sauce, reduce the oil in your pan, leaving about 2 tablespoons. Add the minced garlic and ginger and stir-fry for a minute until aromatic. Pour in the soy sauce and sugar, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. If necessary, introduce a splash of water to adjust the sauce consistency to your liking.
Step 3: Combining Everything Together
Return the fried potatoes, eggplants, and bell peppers to the pan, stirring well to coat them evenly in the sauce. Adjust the seasoning with salt to taste. Continue cooking on medium heat for another 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Garnishing
Before serving, garnish with freshly chopped spring onions to add a touch of color and freshness to the dish.
How to Enjoy Di San Xian
Di San Xian can be enjoyed as a main dish or as a part of a larger Chinese-inspired meal. It pairs perfectly with a bowl of steaming rice or as a side dish alongside other delicacies. The combination of crispy potatoes, tender eggplants, and sweet bell peppers enveloped in a sweet and savory sauce offers a balance of flavors and textures that is truly satisfying. To enhance your dining experience, consider serving it with a side of hot and sour soup or a fresh cucumber salad to cleanse the palate.