Black Bean Noodles: A Flavorful and Quick Dinner Delight
Description:
Black Bean Noodles is an irresistible Asian-inspired dish bursting with vibrant veggies, complemented by the subtle sweetness and tanginess of black bean sauce. The noodles, cooked to perfection, are coated in a savory sauce that strikes the ideal balance of sweet and sour. This recipe is not only super easy to prepare but also perfect for a weeknight dinner when you’re pressed for time. It’s also a fantastic dish to bring to house parties or potluck gatherings, sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Cuisine: Asian
Course: Dinner
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Hakka Noodles | 1 Pack (boiled) |
| Green Beans (French Beans) | 10 |
| Onion | 1 (chopped) |
| Red Bell Pepper (Capsicum) | 1 (chopped) |
| Black Bean Sauce | 2-1/2 Tablespoons |
| Tomato Ketchup | 1 Tablespoon |
| Salt | As per taste |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | As required |
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 2-3
Instructions:
-
Blanch the French Beans: Start by blanching the French beans in boiling water for 2-3 minutes. Once blanched, drain them under cold running water to stop the cooking process. Cut off both ends of the beans and set them aside.
-
Prepare the Veggies: Chop the red bell pepper (capsicum) and onion into small cubes. Set them aside for easy access during the cooking process.
-
Cook the Vegetables: Heat a generous amount of extra virgin olive oil in a wok or large skillet over medium heat. Add the blanched green beans, chopped red bell pepper, and onion to the wok. SautΓ© the mixture for 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables soften slightly but still retain some crunch.
-
Add the Sauces: Stir in the black bean sauce and tomato ketchup, mixing everything well to combine. The sauces will begin to coat the vegetables and infuse them with rich flavor.
-
Toss in the Noodles: Add the boiled Hakka noodles into the wok, stirring gently to combine with the veggies and sauces. Make sure the noodles are evenly coated with the sauce.
-
Season and Simmer: Sprinkle some salt according to your taste and give everything a final stir. Let the noodles and vegetables cook together for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the noodles to absorb the sauce.
-
Serve: Once everything is well-mixed and heated through, turn off the heat. Serve the Black Bean Noodles hot, straight from the wok.
Serving Suggestions:
Enjoy this delightful dish on its own as a light, flavorful dinner. Alternatively, serve it alongside General Tso’s Chicken or other Asian-inspired proteins for a complete meal thatβs perfect for a weekend dinner or a gathering with friends and family.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 45 g |
| Protein | 8 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sodium | 540 mg |
Tips for the Best Black Bean Noodles:
- Noodle Variety: Hakka noodles are typically used in this recipe for their perfect texture, but feel free to use any type of noodles you prefer, such as soba or rice noodles, for a slight variation in flavor and texture.
- Veggie Add-ins: Experiment by adding other veggies like carrots, mushrooms, or baby corn to enrich the dish with extra flavors and nutrients.
- Adjust the Sauce: The balance of black bean sauce and tomato ketchup is key to achieving the right sweet and savory notes. Adjust the quantities of each based on your taste preferences.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it a go-to meal for busy weekdays or impromptu gatherings.
- Versatile: Great on its own or as a side dish to complement a larger spread.
- Flavorful: The black bean sauce provides a rich, savory flavor, while the vegetables add a fresh, crisp texture, creating the perfect combination for a satisfying meal.
Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or serving it at a potluck, Black Bean Noodles are guaranteed to be a hit!
