Henan province, known for its rich culture and historical significance, is also home to some of the most delectable dishes in Chinese cuisine. Among them, baked carp noodles stand out for their unique flavors and satisfying texture. This popular dish has gained a following for its delightful blend of ingredients and the simplicity with which it can be prepared, making it perfect for both novice cooks and culinary aficionados alike.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients:
1 pound of fresh carp (or any white fish)
200 grams of wheat noodles (egg noodles work well)
23 tablespoons of vegetable oil
23 cloves of garlic, minced
1 thumbsized piece of ginger, sliced
23 green onions, chopped
1 tablespoon of soy sauce
1 tablespoon of cooking wine (Shaoxing wine)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon of chili paste (optional, depending on your spice preference)
Fresh herbs for garnish (cilantro or parsley)
Equipment:
A baking dish
A pot for boiling noodles
A skillet
A spatula
Method
1. Prep the Carp:
Start by gutting and cleaning the fresh carp. Rinse it thoroughly to remove any residual blood and scales. Once cleaned, you can cut it into manageable fillets or keep it whole, depending on your preference.
2. Marinate the Fish:
In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, cooking wine, minced garlic, sliced ginger, salt, pepper, and chili paste. Gently coat the carp fillets with this marinade, allowing them to absorb the flavors for about 1530 minutes.
3. Cook the Noodles:
In a pot of boiling water, cook the wheat noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
4. Sauté Vegetables:
In a skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped green onions and stirfry for a minute until fragrant. Then, add the cooked noodles and toss them in the oil, combining well with the sautéed onions.
5. Combine and Bake:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, spread an even layer of the sautéed noodles, placing the marinated carp on top. Drizzle any remaining marinade over the fish and noodles. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the oven.
6. Bake:
Bake for approximately 2530 minutes, or until the carp is fully cooked and flakes easily with a fork. If you prefer a slightly crispy texture, remove the foil in the last 5 minutes of baking.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh herbs over the baked carp noodles for a pop of color and additional flavor. Serve hot and enjoy a delicious slice of Henan cuisine!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Baked carp noodles capture the essence of Henan flavors through its blend of savory and aromatic ingredients. The simplicity in preparation makes it a favorite among home cooks, ensuring that anyone can enjoy a taste of China right from their kitchen. The combination of tender fish and comforting noodles provides a satisfying meal that can easily impress family and friends without requiring hours of effort.
Incorporate this baked carp noodles recipe into your weekly meal rotation, and experience the comforting heart of Henan cuisine! Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish offers a delicious blend of flavor, tradition, and simplicity. Enjoy!