Ants in the tree

Recipe: Furmici in the Tree - A Spicy and Flavorful Delight

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 2

A brief introduction to the history of the recipe

"Furmici in the Tree" is a recipe with deep roots in Asian cuisine, known for its combination of textures and flavors. The name suggests a playful image in which the ingredients blend harmoniously, like ants running on a branch. This recipe is perfect for those who love spicy dishes and want to experiment with new tastes, but also for those who appreciate quick and easy to make.

Ingredients needed

- 150 g minced pork
- 100 g rice noodles
- 1 red chili pepper (adjustable according to your spicy tolerance)
- 2 green onions
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 small champignon mushroom
- 1 handful of wood ear mushrooms (dried)
- 1 teaspoon starch
- 4-5 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tbsp wine vinegar
- Fresh (or jar) ginger, grated or chopped
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Olive oil (for browning)

Preparing the ingredients

1. Ground Meat: In a bowl, combine ground pork with 1 teaspoon starch, 2 teaspoons soy sauce and 1 teaspoon wine vinegar. Mix well, cover the bowl and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This will help improve the texture of the meat and intensify the flavors.

2. Wood Ear Mushrooms: Place wood ear mushrooms in warm water for 15 minutes to rehydrate. Once they have swollen, drain and cut into thin strips.

3. Rice noodles: In a separate container, soak the rice noodles in boiling water for 5-10 minutes, until soft. Drain well before use.

4. Vegetables: Finely chop green onions, garlic and chili peppers. Thinly slice the champignon mushrooms.

Cooking

1. In a large pan or wok, add a few tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the white part of the green onions and the minced garlic. Saute for 1-2 minutes until they become flavorful.

2. Add the champignon mushroom and wood ear mushrooms to the skillet. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mushrooms are tender.

3. The next step is to add the marinated mincemeat to the pan. Sauté the meat for 5-7 minutes until cooked through. Be sure to stir frequently to prevent sticking.

4. Once the meat is cooked, add the rice noodles and drizzle with 4-5 tablespoons of soy sauce. Mix all ingredients well to combine. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Cook everything until the noodles are heated through and absorb the flavors from the pan. Finally, add the chili pepper and the remaining chopped green onions, stirring to distribute the flavors well.

Serving

Serve 'Furmici in the tree' warm, garnished with the remaining green onions and, if you like, a few slices of fresh ginger for extra flavor. It's a perfect dish for a quick and filling dinner, but can also be a main course at a festive meal, alongside a fresh salad or warm soup.

Practical tips

- Adjust the spiciness: If you prefer less spicy dishes, adjust the amount of chili peppers to suit your taste. You can also use sweet peppers for a milder version.
- Ingredient variations: You can replace pork with chicken or tofu for a vegetarian option. Adding vegetables such as carrot or broccoli can also add freshness and color.
- Finding the ingredients: If you can't find fresh wood ear mushrooms, you can opt for shiitake or champignon mushrooms, which are more affordable.

Nutrition facts and calories

- Calories per serving: about 450 kcal
- Nutritional benefits: This recipe is high in protein from the pork and contains fiber from the mushrooms and vegetables. The ginger adds anti-inflammatory and digestive properties and the soy sauce provides an intense umami taste.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of grain noodles?
Yes, you can use wheat noodles or udon noodles, but cooking times may vary. Be sure to follow the instructions on the package.

2. How can I make it less salty?
Use less soy sauce or opt for a low-sodium version.

3. Is this suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! You can prepare a larger portion and store it in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat it on low heat or in the microwave.

I invite you to try this tasty recipe and share your culinary experiences with us! Every dish has a story, and 'Furmici in the Tree' is a delicious journey worth exploring. Enjoy!