Chinese Vermicelli
A vibrant and flavorful Chinese vermicelli dish featuring toasted sesame, green onions, and a spicy, tangy sauce. Perfect as a light meal or side, it combines textures and bold flavors that appeal to fans of Asian cuisine and those seeking a quick, satisfying dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, sugar, chili oil, and vinegar.
- Cook vermicelli in boiling water until barely tender, probably less than a minute.
- Drain the vermicelli, rinse with cold water, and drain again.
- Add the cooked vermicelli to the sauce and toss to coat.
- Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding minced garlic or ginger to the sauce. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the hot chili oil. You can substitute regular soy sauce for black soy sauce, but the color and flavor will be slightly different. Fresh vermicelli is best for this recipe, but if unavailable, try using rice noodles as an alternative.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Chinese vermicelli as a standalone dish or as a side to your favorite proteins, like teriyaki steak or chicken sauce. For a complete meal, pair it with a fresh salad or a side of Chinese pickled beets. This dish also makes a great addition to any potluck or gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can quickly stir-fry the vermicelli in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or additional soy sauce to prevent sticking. This will help restore the noodles' texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chinese Vermicelli contains roughly 398 calories, with 3g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 39g fat.
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 dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of black soy sauce. Additionally, ensure the vermicelli is made from rice or other gluten-free ingredients.
How can I add more vegetables to this recipe?
To incorporate more vegetables, consider adding thinly sliced bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas. You can quickly sauté them before mixing with the vermicelli and sauce, enhancing both flavor and nutrition.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish is perfect for meal prep as it holds up well in the fridge. Just store the sauce separately to keep the vermicelli from becoming soggy until you're ready to enjoy it. It can be easily reheated for a quick lunch or dinner.
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).