Chili peppers, those fiery gems of the culinary world, offer a vibrant burst of flavor and a thrilling kick that elevates dishes from ordinary to extraordinary. From the mild sweetness of a bell pepper to the intense heat of a habanero, the vast spectrum of chili varieties provides endless possibilities for culinary exploration. Their versatility extends beyond simple spice; they add depth, complexity, and a unique character to sauces, salsas, stews, and countless other creations. Beyond their culinary prowess, chili peppers also boast impressive health benefits, packed with vitamins and antioxidants.
This article delves into the art of preparing Grandma's Spicy Steamed & Stir-fried Chili Peppers, a recipe passed down through generations. We'll guide you through each step, from selecting the perfect peppers to achieving that perfect balance of heat and flavor. Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more!
Tools Needed
- Steamer
- Knife
- Bowl
- Pot
Ingredients
- Chili peppers: a bunch
- Salt: a pinch
- Glutinous rice flour
- Soy sauce
- Chopped green onions
- Garlic
- Plum extract
- Cooking wine
- Water
- Sugar
- Scallions
- Chili powder
- Red pepper powder
- Cooking oil
- Sesame seeds
- Red pepper flakes
- Anchovies (for broth, optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare and Steam the Chili Peppers
- Cut large ones into appropriate sizes. Make a hole in each pepper to help it cook evenly.
- Add a pinch of salt while the peppers are still wet.
- Coat the chili peppers with glutinous rice flour.
- Place wet cotton pads in the steamer, add chili peppers, and steam for about 5 minutes after water boils.
Step 2. Stir-fry the Chili Peppers
- Add the steamed chili peppers to a pan. Season with soy sauce, chopped green onions, garlic, and plum extract for sweetness.
Step 3. Simmer and Season (Optional)
- Add water and a little soy sauce to thin the sauce. Add a little sugar for a chewier texture. Cover and simmer over medium heat until soft (approximately 10 minutes).
Step 4. Finishing Touches
- Add the remaining seasonings (scallions, chili powder, red pepper powder, soy sauce), simmer for 5 more minutes. Drizzle with cooking oil, and sprinkle with sesame seeds and red pepper flakes.
Read more: Crispy Spicy Honey Garlic Korean Chicken Recipe
Tips
- The taste of the chili peppers might be ruined if there's too much seasoning, but they are delicious even if you just eat them as is.
- For a long-lasting pickled version, consider pickling the peppers.
- Stir-frying with anchovies for broth enhances the taste.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use any type of chili pepper for this recipe?
While Grandma's recipe uses [Specify the type of chili pepper used in the recipe], you can experiment with others. Just keep in mind that different peppers have varying levels of heat, so adjust accordingly.
2. How do I control the level of spiciness?
Remove the seeds and membranes before cooking for less heat. For extra heat, leave them in! You can also adjust the amount of chili peppers used.
So there you have it – Grandma's Spicy Steamed & Stir-fried Chili Peppers, a recipe guaranteed to add a fiery kick to any meal. This simple yet flavorful dish is perfect as a side, a topping, or even a standalone snack. Enjoy the delicious results of your culinary adventure!