Introducing a delectable dish that combines the delicate textures of glass noodles, the earthy flavor of shiitake mushrooms, and the aromatic essence of fresh ginger and green onions – Glass Noodle Casserole with Shiitakes! 🍲 This culinary delight embodies a Chinese-inspired flair, offering a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. With a preparation time of just 20 minutes and a total cook time of 40 minutes, this dish is perfect for those seeking a quick and satisfying meal option that doesn’t compromise on taste or nutrition.
Glass Noodle Casserole with Shiitakes
Ingredients:
- 3 bundles of bean thread noodles (also known as glass noodles or cellophane noodles)
- 2 cups water
- 2 cups shiitake mushrooms, sliced
- 3-4 slices of fresh ginger
- 8 green onions, chopped
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 4 cups chicken stock
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole will be ready to bake once all the ingredients are prepared.
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Prepare the noodles: Place the bean thread noodles in a large bowl and cover them with boiling water. Allow the noodles to soak until they become soft and transparent, usually about 10-15 minutes. Once soft, drain the noodles well and discard any bits that remain white, ensuring only the clear, slippery noodles remain.
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Prepare the vegetables: While the noodles are soaking, prepare the remaining ingredients. Slice the shiitake mushrooms, chop the green onions, and thinly slice the fresh ginger. These aromatic vegetables will infuse the casserole with rich flavors and textures.
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Layer the ingredients: In a small deep casserole dish, layer the soaked glass noodles along with the sliced shiitake mushrooms, chopped green onions, and fresh ginger slices. The combination of these ingredients creates a harmonious blend of flavors that will delight your palate.
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Drizzle with oyster sauce and chicken stock: Once the ingredients are layered in the casserole dish, drizzle the oyster sauce evenly over the top. Then, pour enough chicken stock over the ingredients to just cover them. Depending on the size of your dish, you may not need to use all 4 cups of chicken stock.
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Bake: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes, or until the noodles are tender and the flavors have melded together beautifully. The gentle heat of the oven allows the ingredients to marry, resulting in a mouthwatering dish that is both savory and satisfying.
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Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro, if desired. The vibrant green cilantro adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish, enhancing its visual appeal and flavor profile.
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Enjoy: Serve the Glass Noodle Casserole with Shiitakes hot and fresh from the oven, allowing your guests to savor each delicious bite. Whether enjoyed as a side dish or a main course, this flavorful creation is sure to impress even the most discerning palates.
With just a few simple steps, you can create a culinary masterpiece that celebrates the vibrant flavors of Chinese cuisine while offering a wholesome and satisfying dining experience. Perfect for cozy nights in or festive gatherings with friends and family, this Glass Noodle Casserole with Shiitakes is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and let’s get cooking! 🌟
