Kung Pao Spaghetti: A Spicy, Savory Asian-Inspired Pasta Dish

Kung Pao Spaghetti

Cuisine: Asian
Course: Dinner
Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Serving Size: 4 servings

Description:
Kung Pao Spaghetti is the perfect meal for those times when you crave the bold flavors of Chinese cuisine but are short on time. This dish brings together the deliciously spicy and savory elements of a classic Kung Pao stir-fry with the comforting texture of spaghetti. It’s an easy, quick, and flavorful dinner option, packed with tender chicken, crunchy peanuts, and aromatic spices. The combination of light and dark soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a touch of vinegar ensures every bite is a satisfying blend of salty, tangy, and umami. Plus, it’s all made in one pan, making cleanup a breeze!

Ingredients:

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

   • Begin by washing and patting dry the chicken cubes using a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
   • In a bowl, combine the chicken cubes, 1 tablespoon of corn flour, 2 teaspoons of light soy sauce, rice wine, and oil. Mix thoroughly to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. Allow the chicken to marinate for 30 minutes for best results.

2. Make the Sauce:

   • In a separate bowl, whisk together 1.5 tablespoons of light soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of dark soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of sugar, vinegar, water, and 1 teaspoon of corn flour. Mix well to dissolve the corn flour and set the sauce aside.

3. Cook the Chicken:

   • Heat a wok or large frying pan over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of oil. Once hot, stir-fry the marinated chicken cubes until they are golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to overcook the chicken, as it will become tough and chewy. Once done, remove the chicken from the wok and set aside.

4. Stir-Fry the Aromatics:

   • In the same wok, add 2 tablespoons of oil and heat over medium heat. Add the chopped ginger and garlic, cooking for a few seconds until fragrant. Then, add the dry red chilies and sauté gently. Keep the heat low to avoid burning the chilies.

5. Combine the Chicken, Sauce, and Peanuts:

   • Once the aroma of the chilies fills the air, return the cooked chicken to the wok. Stir to coat the chicken in the fragrant garlic, ginger, and chili mixture.
   • Pour in the sauce mixture and add the roasted peanuts. Stir gently to ensure the chicken is well-coated with the sauce and everything is evenly combined. Let it simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and flavor to meld together.

6. Add the Spaghetti:

   • Add the cooked spaghetti to the wok and toss it in the sauce mixture. Add the chopped green parts of the spring onions and a small pinch of salt to taste. Stir everything together and cook for a further 1-2 minutes to ensure the pasta is thoroughly coated in the sauce but not too dry.

7. Serve:

   • Transfer the Kung Pao Spaghetti to serving plates. Garnish with additional spring onions for a fresh, crunchy touch. Serve immediately, and enjoy the flavorsome balance of savory, spicy, and tangy in every bite.

Tip:
For an even more delightful experience, serve the Kung Pao Spaghetti alongside a side of Hoisin Tofu & Mushroom Stir Fry to complete your Asian-inspired dinner spread.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Kung Pao Spaghetti blends the best of two worlds—spaghetti and traditional Kung Pao flavors—into a dish that’s easy to prepare yet packed with flavor. It’s the ideal choice when you’re craving something both familiar and exciting, with the perfect amount of heat to keep your taste buds tingling. Enjoy this easy-to-make dish for dinner tonight!