Instructions
More than 20 years ago Schezuan restaurants became the new rage and I
was loving it! I still do, but my first memories remain the most
delectable. I vividly remember my first taste of delicate steamed
dumplings with sesame sauce. After that I was hooked and would order
them every time. The dough was light and delicate and the sauce just
perfect and spicy.
Soon after that I enrolled in Schezuan cooking classes. I got some
friends to join me so it was just the six of us in class. We would take
turns bringing the wine. We watched the teacher do his thing and then
ate…how great is that? That was a fun Wednesday night with friends. I
was so anxious to learn how to make those dumplings, especially that
sesame sauce. Come to find out we would not be making this sesame sauce
for our freshly made dumplings. We made a peanut sauce to go with cold
noodles and boiled chicken instead. Unfortunately, his peanut sauce
recipe was not a success, but being who I am, I made the best of it and
learned from my experience.
I was able to find a nice Schezuan peanut sauce in a bottle and over
the years the recipe has evolved. Now I make healthy noodles with
vegetables and peanut sauce, either vegan or with roasted chicken. I
love this recipe because it takes less than 10 minutes to prepare and
you can serve it hot or cold.
Cook pasta as directed. Meanwhile, wash and cut
vegetables then transfer to a large serving dish. If you prefer cooked
snow peas, you can drop them in with the pasta during the last minute
of cooking. Cut chicken into bite size pieces or strips, warm in the
microwave if desired (about 30-45 seconds on high) and add to serving
dish. Drain cooked pasta, add to serving dish and mix in peanut sauce
until all coated (may not need to use the whole bottle). Sprinkle with
chopped peanuts or sesame seeds and serve.
That’s it! It is so good! I served this dish without chicken for my
vegan friends and they asked me for the recipe. I also use it as a meal
for one when I have left over pasta. I just throw in any vegetables I
have available.
It‘s also handy when you have unexpected guests. On your way home just
stop at the store to get a rotisserie chicken, the veggies, dry pasta
and a bottle of sauce. You prepare the vegetables while the pasta is
cooking, talk with your guests and before you know it you’re done. You
will love it, but if you don’t like spicy food you may need to find a
different brand besides House of Tsang. You can also play with this
recipe and make it your own by using your favorite vegetables or try
using shrimp, pork or even tofu. Make it colorful and healthy. Enjoy!
- Josee