Ah So
A crunchy, savory snack combining chow mein noodles and cashews, coated in soy and garlic flavors, perfect for parties or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 275°F.
- Melt butter in a large baking dish.
- Add soy sauce, garlic powder, and salt; mix well.
- Add chow mein noodles and cashew nuts; coat evenly.
- Spread mixture in an even layer in the dish.
- Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until crisp.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider using fresh minced garlic instead of garlic powder. You can also substitute the cashew nuts with almonds or peanuts for a different texture and taste. Adjust the soy sauce to your preference for saltiness. If you want a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. This dish works well as a crunchy topping for *Creamed Hominy*.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this crunchy snack as an appetizer or a side dish with Asian-inspired meals. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or tofu, and can also be enjoyed as a topping for salads or soups. For a fun twist, serve alongside *Cinnamon Pecan Crunch* for a sweet and savory contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to reheat, spread the mixture on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 275°F for about 5-7 minutes to regain its crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make the noodles soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ah So contains roughly 176 calories, with 4g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is a good source of iron (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2012mg per serving (87% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead of time, but it's best to bake it just before serving to maintain its crunch. If you do prepare it in advance, store it without baking and then follow the baking instructions when you're ready to serve.
What can I substitute for chow mein noodles?
If you can't find chow mein noodles, you can use crispy fried onions or even tortilla chips as an alternative. Both options will provide a similar crunchy texture, though the flavor will differ slightly. Just be sure to adjust the baking time as needed to avoid burning.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it contains no meat. However, be sure to check that the soy sauce you are using is vegetarian, as some may contain fish sauce. This dish aligns well with vegetarian recipes and can be enjoyed by everyone.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).