Ingredients

1 pound fresh Chinese wheat noodles
1/2 pound fresh asparagus
2 tablespoons canola oil
2 cloves garlic , minced
1 teaspoon minced fresh ginger root
1 cup water
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons Chinese rice wine
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon fermented black beans
8 ounces spinach with stems , rinsed
2 teaspoons dark sesame oil
salt and pepper to taste
The Chinese Noodle Pancakes with asparagus are a popular street food item in China, and one can find them served in regional variations throughout the country. These savory pancakes are versatile and can be eaten for breakfast or lunch, as well as with a cup of tea or another beverage for a snack. Asparagus is a great addition to the dish, adding a subtle earthy flavor and a pop of color to the dish. The dish is easy to make and can be customized with different sauces and vegetables depending on taste. The noodle pancake is a filling and satisfying meal that's sure to impress your friends and family and can be made in no time at all!

Instructions

1.Cook the Chinese noodles in a boiling pot of salted water for 2-3 minutes or until al dente. Drain the noodles and rinse them under cold running water.
2.Cut the asparagus spears into bite-sized pieces.
3.Heat 1 tablespoon of canola oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat, add the garlic and ginger and stir fry until fragrant. Add the asparagus and continue cooking for 3-4 minutes or until tender.
4.In a small bowl, mix together water, cornstarch, rice wine, soy sauce, and fermented black beans. Stir well until the cornstarch dissolves.
5.Add the noodles, spinach, and the sauce mixture into the pan. Use a pair of tongs to toss the mixture until the liquids are evaporated and the noodles are evenly coated. Add the sesame oil and season with salt and pepper.
6.Heat another tablespoon of canola oil in the same pan over high heat. Add the noodle mixture and press lightly to form a flat pancake. Cook for 3-4 minutes on one side or until golden brown and crispy. Carefully flip the pancake over, and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the other side is crispy.
7.Remove the pancake from the pan and transfer it to a serving plate. Cut the pancake into wedges, and serve hot with additional soy sauce and black vinegar, if desired.

PROS

The savory Chinese Noodle Pancake with asparagus is a delicious and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch or dinner.
It is easy to make and can be customized to your liking with different vegetables and sauces.

The crispy exterior and soft and chewy texture make these pancakes satisfying to eat, and the nutritional benefits of asparagus and spinach are added bonuses.

CONS

The noodles used to make the pancakes are high in carbohydrates, so this dish should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Additionally, as with most fried foods, this dish is higher in calories and fat compared to non-fried dishes.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Chinese Noodle Pancakes with Asparagus are a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals thanks to the fresh asparagus and spinach. These greens provide nutrients like vitamin K, folate, and vitamin C, which promotes healthy bone growth, prevents anemia, and boosts immunity.

Asparagus is known for its diuretic properties and promotes healthy digestion due to its high fiber content. Spinach also contains antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which improve eye health.

In moderation, the dish can be a tasty way to incorporate more veggies into your diet.

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