Hanoi Seasalt Medley

Introduction to Hanoi Seasalt Medley

The culinary tradition of Hanoi is rich and diverse, known for its unique flavors and enchanting aromas that are deeply entrenched in Vietnamese culture. One of the standout dishes that encapsulate the essence of Hanoi's gastronomy is the Hanoi Seasalt Medley. This dish brings together the fundamental elements of Vietnamese cooking - the harmonious blend of sweet, salty, sour, and umami flavors, presented in an elegant and comforting manner.

Originating from the bustling streets of Hanoi, the Hanoi Seasalt Medley takes inspiration from the traditional Vietnamese use of seasalt, a vital component in enhancing the natural flavors of the ingredients. It is celebrated not just for its taste, but also for its simplicity and nutritional benefits, making it an integral part of any authentic Vietnamese meal.

Ingredients

• Vietnamese Seasalt - 1 tablespoon
• Shrimp - 500 grams, peeled and deveined
• Lemongrass - 2 stalks, finely chopped
• Garlic - 3 cloves, minced
• Shallots - 2, sliced
• Red Chilies - 2, sliced
• Lime - 1, juiced
• Palm Sugar - 1 teaspoon
• Fish Sauce - 2 tablespoons
• Water - 100 ml
• Fresh Coriander - a handful, chopped
• Roasted Peanuts - a handful, crushed
• Rice Noodles - 200 grams
• Bean Sprouts - 100 grams
• Carrot - 1, julienned
• Cucumber - 1, sliced

Preparation

Before embarking on the creation of the Hanoi Seasalt Medley, it is essential to prepare all the ingredients meticulously to ensure a smooth and joyful cooking experience.

Preparing the Shrimp

Begin by cleaning the shrimp thoroughly under running water. Once cleaned, pat them dry with a paper towel and set aside in a bowl. Sprinkle a generous pinch of Vietnamese Seasalt over the shrimp, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Allow it to marinate for about 15 minutes.

Chopping and Slicing

While the shrimp is marinating, proceed to prepare your vegetables. Finely chop the lemongrass, mince the garlic, and slice the shallots and red chilies. Keep these ingredients aside for the stir-fry process.

The carrot should be julienned, and the cucumber sliced into thin rounds. These will serve as fresh, crisp accompaniments to the dish.

Cooking the Rice Noodles

Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Once cooked, drain and rinse them under cold water to stop cooking further and prevent them from sticking together. Set them aside.

Cooking Process

The cooking process for the Hanoi Seasalt Medley is quite straightforward and can be completed in a short amount of time, once all ingredients are prepared.

Step 1: Stir-Frying the Aromatics

Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the lemongrass, garlic, and shallots to the pan, stirring occasionally. Let them cook until they become fragrant and slightly golden, which should take about 3 minutes.

Step 2: Cooking the Shrimp

Increase the heat to medium-high and add the shrimp to the aromatics in the pan. Stir fry them for about 5-7 minutes or until they turn pink and opaque. As the shrimp cook, they will absorb the flavorful oils released by the aromatics.

Step 3: Creating the Sauce

Once the shrimp are cooked, add the red chilies, lime juice, palm sugar, fish sauce, and water to the pan. Allow the mixture to simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sauce begins to thicken. This should take about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Final Assembly

When the sauce has reached the desired thickness, remove the pan from the heat. Incorporate the cooked rice noodles, tossing them gently to soak up the sauce. Add the fresh bean sprouts, carrots, and cucumber slices, mixing all components evenly.

How to Enjoy Hanoi Seasalt Medley

Garnish the dish with a handful of fresh coriander and a sprinkle of roasted peanuts for an extra layer of texture and flavor. The medley is best enjoyed fresh and warm, allowing the vibrant flavors to shine.

For an authentic experience, pair the Hanoi Seasalt Medley with a light Vietnamese beer or a well-chilled glass of white wine to complement the subtle sweetness of the dish. Gather friends and family around, and enjoy this delightful dish with a side of good company and conversation.

Conclusion

Hanoi Seasalt Medley stands as a testament to the intricate and balanced flavors that Vietnamese cuisine prides itself on. By incorporating fresh and wholesome ingredients with traditional techniques, this dish captures not only the spirit of Hanoi but also provides a harmonious culinary experience that can be recreated in the comfort of your own kitchen. So go ahead, don the apron, and partake in the delicious journey to the heart of Vietnam.

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