Yatai Zing

Introduction

Yatai Zing is a vibrant and flavorful dish inspired by the bustling street food markets of Taiwan, known as yatai. This dish combines a myriad of spices, meats, and vegetables, presenting an explosion of taste that encapsulates the essence of Taiwanese street food culture. Yatai markets have been a staple in Taiwanese culinary history, known for offering affordable yet diverse and delicious food options since the mid-20th century.

Originally, yatai were small, mobile food stalls found in post-war Japan, but the concept quickly spread to nearby regions, each adapting it with their own local flavors. In Taiwan, yatai stalls are an integral part of night markets, serving everything from stinky tofu to fresh seafood. The Yatai Zing captures the spirit of these energetic markets with its fusion of local ingredients and spicy flair.

Ingredients

• Chicken - 500g, diced
• Soy Sauce - 3 tablespoons
• Ginger - 2 tablespoons, minced
• Garlic - 4 cloves, minced
• Chili Flakes - 1 teaspoon
• Sesame Oil - 2 tablespoons
• Vegetable Oil - 2 tablespoons
• Onion - 1 large, sliced
• Bell Peppers - 2, mixed colors, sliced
• Soybean Sprouts - 1 cup
• Tofu - 250g, cubed
• Spring Onions - 3 stalks, chopped
• Szechuan Peppercorns - 1 teaspoon
• Lime - 1, cut into wedges

Preparation

Step 1: Marinade the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. (timer)

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

While the chicken is marinating, prepare your vegetables. Slice the onion and bell peppers, and rinse the soybean sprouts thoroughly. Cube the tofu and chop the spring onions. Keep all ingredients aside.

Cooking Process

Step 1: Fry the Tofu

In a nonstick pan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the tofu cubes and fry until they are golden brown on all sides. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pan, add sesame oil and add the Szechuan peppercorns. Allow them to sizzle for 1 minute before adding the onion, stirring until translucent. Add the garlic and ginger and sauté until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Increase the heat to high and add the marinated chicken to the pan, cooking until it is no longer pink in the center. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Ensure that the chicken is cooked thoroughly.

Step 4: Add Vegetables

Add the bell peppers and soybean sprouts to the pan. Stir-fry quickly to keep them crisp and fresh, about 3 minutes. Add the cooked tofu back into the pan.

Step 5: Final Touches

Sprinkle the dish with chili flakes and chopped spring onions. Give everything a good mix and turn off the heat.

How to Enjoy Yatai Zing

To serve, transfer the Yatai Zing to a large serving plate and garnish with lime wedges on the side. Squeeze some lime over the dish just before eating to enhance its zingy flavor. This dish can be enjoyed alone or paired with steaming white rice or soft rice noodles to soak up the spicy, savory sauce. Gather your friends around, serve up some tea, and enjoy the authentic taste of Taiwanese street food in your own home.

Reflecting the energy and robust flavors of a Taipei night market, Yatai Zing is not just a meal but an experience. Every bite tells a story of Taiwan's rich culinary heritage and invites you to explore the vibrant world of street food.