Saigon Green Breeze
Introduction
The Saigon Green Breeze is a refreshing culinary creation inspired by the vibrant flavors of Vietnam. The nation’s capital, Saigon, now known as Ho Chi Minh City, is a melting pot of cultures and a confluence of Eastern and Western influences. This dish reflects that diversity, blending fresh herbs, dynamic spices, and aromatic elements. The name 'Green Breeze' highlights the emphasis on popular Vietnamese ingredients like mint, cilantro, and basil. A great dish for those wanting to explore Southeast Asian flavors, this recipe offers both healthful ingredients and a pleasing aesthetic.
Ingredients
- Chicken Breast - 500g
- Fish Sauce - 2 tablespoons
- Sugar - 1 tablespoon
- Lime - 1, juiced
- Lemongrass - 2 stalks, finely chopped
- Garlic - 4 cloves, minced
- Mint leaves - 1 handful
- Cilantro leaves - 1 handful
- Basil leaves - 1 handful
- Red Chili - 1, thinly sliced
- Cucumber - 1, julienned
- Carrot - 1, julienned
- Rice Noodles - 200g
- Roasted Peanuts - 1/4 cup, crushed
- Spring Onions - 2, sliced
Preparation
Marinating the Chicken Breast
Begin by slicing the chicken breast into thin strips. In a bowl, combine the fish sauce, sugar, lime juice, chopped lemongrass, and garlic. Add the chicken and mix well. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes for the flavors to infuse.
Preparing the Vegetables
While the chicken marinates, prepare the vegetables. Thinly slice the cucumber and carrot into julienne strips. Chop the mint, cilantro, and basil, setting aside a portion of the leaves for garnish.
Cooking the Rice Noodles
Boil water and add the rice noodles. Cook for approximately 4-5 minutes or until al dente. Use a cooking timer to ensure you don’t overcook them. Rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and set aside.
Cooking Process
Stir-Frying the Chicken
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add a splash of oil, followed by the marinated chicken strips. Stir-fry for about 7-8 minutes or until thoroughly cooked through. Use a cooking timer if needed. Remove from heat once done.
Assembling the Saigon Green Breeze
In a large serving bowl, lay the cooked noodles as the base layer. Add a mix of the julienned cucumber and carrot. Top with the stir-fried chicken. Garnish with the chopped mint, cilantro, and basil. Sprinkle roasted peanuts and sliced red chili over the top.
How to Enjoy
The Saigon Green Breeze is best enjoyed fresh. The aromatic herbs and the savory flavor from the fish sauce complemented by the crunch from the carrots and the nuttiness from the peanuts offer a delightful texture. Pair it with a chilled Vietnamese beer or a glass of iced tea. Each bite should leave you yearning for the lively streets and the delicious aromas that fill them in Ho Chi Minh City.