Saigon Spice Stir

Introduction to Saigon Spice Stir

The Saigon Spice Stir is a dish inspired by the vibrant flavors and rich culinary heritage of Vietnam's largest city, Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon. This dish captures the essence of Vietnamese cooking, renowned for its balance of flavors, utilizing the harmonious blend of spicy, salty, sweet, and sour tastes, characteristic of Southeast Asian cuisine.

Throughout history, Vietnam's culinary influences evolved from a blend of indigenous traditions and centuries of external influences from China, France, and other neighboring countries. The result is a distinctive taste profile that is celebrated worldwide. The Saigon Spice Stir is a testament to this melting pot of flavors.

This dish brings together aromatic spices, fresh herbs, and a variety of textures, resulting in a fragrant, colorful, and richly balanced meal that resonates with both traditional and modern culinary adventures.

Ingredients

• Chicken Breast (500g, sliced thinly)
• Fish Sauce (2 tablespoons)
• Soy Sauce (1 tablespoon)
• Lemongrass (2 stalks, finely chopped)
• Ginger (2-inch piece, grated)
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
• Red Chili (2, finely sliced)
• Bell Pepper (1, sliced)
• Carrots (2, julienned)
• Bamboo Shoots (1 cup, sliced)
• Roasted Peanuts (1/2 cup, crushed)
• Cilantro (1/2 cup, chopped)
• Rice Vinegar (1 tablespoon)
• Brown Sugar (1 tablespoon)
• Sesame Oil (2 tablespoons)
• Coconut Milk (1/2 cup)
• Rice Noodles (200g)

Preparation

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine chicken, fish sauce, soy sauce, ginger, and half of the garlic. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes. This helps to infuse the flavors deeply into the meat, enhancing its taste profile.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

While the meat is marinating, chop and slice the lemongrass, red chili, bell pepper, carrots, and bamboo shoots. Having all ingredients ready and within reach is critical for a smooth cooking process in the next steps.

Step 3: Cook the Noodles

Boil water and cook the rice noodles as per package instructions. Once done, drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking.

Cooking Process

Step 1: Stir-Fry the Chicken and Aromatics

Heat the sesame oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the remaining garlic and stir-fry until golden brown. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned on all sides, for about 5-7 minutes.

Step 2: Add Vegetables and Spices

Add the sliced lemongrass, red chili, bell pepper, carrots, and bamboo shoots. Stir-fry for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet crunchy.

Step 3: Incorporate the Sauces and Nuts

Lower the heat and pour in the coconut milk, rice vinegar, and brown sugar. Stir well to combine. Cook for another 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Finish by adding the roasted peanuts.

Step 4: Combine with Noodles and Serve

Add the cooked rice noodles to the stir-fry. Toss everything together until the noodles are fully coated with the spicy coconut sauce. Stir in the chopped cilantro just before serving to impart a fresh aroma.

How to Enjoy Saigon Spice Stir

Serve the Saigon Spice Stir hot, out of the wok, ensuring that each plate is topped with additional cilantro and a sprinkle of crushed roasted peanuts for added texture and flavor. This dish is a complete meal on its own, best enjoyed with a light Vietnamese iced coffee or an herbal tea to balance the rich, spicy flavors of the stir-fry.

For an additional layer of authenticity, consider pairing the Saigon Spice Stir with traditional Vietnamese side dishes such as spring rolls or a simple papaya salad, which provide complementary flavors and a delightful contrast in textures. Enjoy this harmonious and delightful embodiment of Vietnamese culinary artistry.

Remember, cooking time can vary, so feel free to set a cooking timer to ensure all components are prepared to your liking.