Craving a vibrant, flavorful, and incredibly easy meal? Look no further than this Chinese Red Noodle Beans recipe! This dish bursts with the rich umami of fermented black beans, the satisfying chewiness of noodles, and the vibrant pop of color from the red bell pepper. It's a perfect example of how healthy meals can also be quick dinner ideas, ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Perfect for homemade cooking enthusiasts and beginners alike, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 8 oz dried noodles (such as spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine)
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fermented black beans, rinsed and chopped
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for added heat)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
-
Cook the noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the noodles and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the noodles and set aside. A little tip: reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water before draining; it can be used to loosen the sauce if needed.
-
Sauté the vegetables: Heat the vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and red bell pepper and stir-fry for 3-5 minutes until slightly softened. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and stir-fry for another minute until fragrant.
-
Add the black beans and sauce: Stir in the fermented black beans, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Cook for 1 minute, allowing the flavors to meld.
-
Combine noodles and sauce: Add the cooked noodles to the wok and toss gently to coat them evenly with the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
-
Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions if desired. This dish is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a side of steamed rice or your favorite vegetables.
Tips for the Best Chinese Red Noodle Beans:
- Don't overcook the noodles: Al dente noodles are key for the best texture.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes or omit them altogether.
- Experiment with vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, or mushrooms.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger will add a brighter flavor.
Variations:
- Spicy Noodles: Add a tablespoon of sriracha or chili garlic sauce for extra heat.
- Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a more substantial meal.
- Vegetarian Option: This recipe is already naturally vegetarian, but adding more vegetables can make it even heartier.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 10-15g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
This Chinese Red Noodle Beans recipe is a testament to the fact that delicious and healthy meals don't have to be complicated. Enjoy this easy recipe, and let us know how you like it in the comments below! We'd love to hear from you and see your culinary creations.