Moscow Zest Noodles

A Brief History

Moscow Zest Noodles is a fusion dish combining flavors from both Russian and Asian cuisines. Traditionally, Russian cuisine is known for its hearty and comforting meals often incorporating ingredients like potato, sour cream, and dill. Asian dishes, on the other hand, frequently utilize ingredients such as soy sauce, ginger, and noodles. This dish is a delightful blend that brings together the rich and spicy flavors of the East with the warmth and depth characteristic of Russian cooking.

Created in the late 20th century, this dish became popular among food enthusiasts seeking a novel culinary experience. It embodies a modern urban twist, representing both the vibrant city of Moscow and the cosmopolitan nature of international cuisine.

Ingredients

• 200g noodles
• 300g chicken breast
• 3 tablespoons of soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon of freshly grated ginger
• 2 cloves of garlic
• 1 large carrot
• 1 red capsicum
• 1 medium onion
• Fresh dill for garnish
• 2 tablespoons of sour cream
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 medium potato
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste

Preparation

Preparing the Chicken

1. Slice the chicken breast into thin strips. This helps in quick and even cooking.
2. Marinate the chicken strips with soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. Allow it to rest for at least 15 minutes.

Preparing the Vegetables

1. Julienne the carrot and capsicum for a uniform thin style that matches the length of the noodles.
2. Chop the onion finely and dice the potato into tiny cubes.

Cooking Process

Cooking the Noodles

1. Boil a large pot of water and add a pinch of salt for flavor.
2. Add the noodles and cook for about 5-7 minutes or until al dente. Remember to frequently check the cooking timer to avoid overcooking.
3. Drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process.

Cooking the Chicken and Vegetables

1. In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the marinated chicken strips and sauté until they are browned and fully cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add more olive oil if needed and toss in the diced potato. Cook for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
4. Add the onion and cook until translucent.
5. Follow with the julienned carrot and capsicum. Stir-fry all the vegetables together until they are tender but not overcooked.

Bringing It All Together

1. Return the chicken to the pan with the vegetables.
2. Mix the noodles into the pan, tossing everything together to ensure an even coating of sauce and seasoning.
3. Add sour cream to the mixture and stir continuously for about 2 minutes. This creates a creamy texture, enhancing the fusion flavor.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Moscow Zest Noodles hot, garnished with freshly chopped dill. This final touch adds a classic Russian freshness. For a complementary beverage, consider offering a glass of chilled white wine or a classic Russian kvass for a more traditional experience.

Enjoy these noodles as a hearty meal any time of the year. This dish pairs excellently with a light cucumber salad, offering a refreshing counter-balance to the rich and savory noodles. Whether you're in Moscow or anywhere else across the globe, this dish is sure to transport you to a world of vibrant culinary fusion.