Shandong Platter

The Shandong Platter is a vibrant reflection of the culinary diversity found in China's Shandong Province. Known for its coastal location, this region supplies a variety of seafood-based dishes that complement hearty, meat-centric platters, combining the essence of sea and land. Infused with bold flavors, this traditional dish typifies the use of salty and savory profiles characteristic of the Shandong culinary style.

Historical Background

The Shandong region, historically linked to Confucius, is one of the cradles of Chinese civilization. Traditional Shandong cuisine or, as it's also known, Lu cuisine, is one of the Eight Culinary Traditions of Chinese Cuisine. The Shandong Platter heralds from this rich tradition, balancing artful presentation with complex flavors that have developed over centuries.

Ingredients

• Shrimp
• Chicken breast
• Bok choy
• Soy sauce
• Rice wine
• Ginger
• Garlic
• Scallions
• Cornstarch
• Sesame oil
• Sugar
• Pepper
• Salt
• Chili oil
• Vinegar
• Tofu
• Egg noodles

Preparation

The preparation of a Shandong Platter starts with sourcing fresh, local ingredients, focusing particularly on fresh shrimp and quality chicken breast. Start by marinating the meat components—shrimp, and chicken breast—in a mixture of soy sauce, rice wine, minced ginger, and crushed garlic to infuse them with flavor for at least 30 minutes.

Marinade Process

1. Combine 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of rice wine, a thumb-sized piece of minced ginger, and 3 cloves of crushed garlic in a bowl.
2. Add the shrimp and chicken breast, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
3. Drain any excess marinade, pat the meat dry, and set aside.

Cooking Process

Cooking the Meat and Vegetables

Heat a wok or large frying pan over medium-high heat, add sesame oil, and quickly stir-fry the marinated shrimp and chicken breast until fully cooked. Remove from the pan and keep warm. In the same pan, add more sesame oil and stir-fry sliced bok choy and diced tofu until they are crisp-tender.

Combining Ingredients

Return the chicken and shrimp to the pan, and add 2 tablespoons of cornstarch mixed with 1/4 cup of water to thicken the sauce. Season with salt, pepper, a pinch of sugar, and a splash of vinegar. Toss everything together over high heat to mix well, adding a drizzle of chili oil for a hint of spice.

How to Enjoy the Meal

Plate the egg noodles onto a serving platter, top them with the stir-fried mixture of shrimp, chicken breast, and vegetables. Garnish with freshly chopped scallions for a burst of flavor. Serve immediately with a side of vinegar for dipping, which further enhances the rich, savory flavors of the Shandong Platter.

Enjoy this dish with family and friends, as sharing a meal is a cornerstone of Shandong tradition. The harmony of flavors speaks to the essence of communal dining.