Singapore Noodles with Shrimp

Get ready to indulge in a comforting and flavorful bowl of Asian cuisine with this dish. It combines tender rice vermicelli noodles with a fragrant curry sauce, creating a harmonious blend of savory flavors. The key to perfecting this recipe lies in the preparation of the noodles and the addition of curry powder. Soaking the noodles in hot water ensures they become soft enough for stir-frying, while boiling them results in a sticky and gummy texture. The addition of a tablespoon of curry powder infuses the entire dish with its sweet and pungent aroma. To elevate the flavors further, we’ve incorporated succulent shrimp into the mix. Tossing them with curry powder and sugar guarantees a burst of flavor and beautiful browning when cooked in a hot skillet. The sauce is built in the same pan, allowing the noodles and shrimp to absorb all the delightful flavors. Finished with minced cilantro for a clean and citrusy touch, as well as crunchy bean sprouts, this dish not only tantalizes the taste buds but also delights the eyes with its vibrant colors. Remember, using rice vermicelli noodles specifically is crucial to maintain the authenticity of this dish. Prepare to savor the comforting and aromatic experience that this delightful bowl of curry noodles brings.

INGREDIENTS:

• 8 ounces dried rice vermicelli
• 1 pound extra-large shrimp (21 to 25 per pound), peeled, deveined, and tails removed
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• ½ teaspoon sugar
• 8 teaspoons vegetable oil
• 6 shallots, sliced thin
• 2 red bell peppers, stemmed, seeded, and sliced into ¼-inch-wide strips
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• ⅓ cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon mirin
• 1 teaspoon Sriracha sauce
• 4 ounces (2 cups) bean sprouts
• ½ cup minced fresh cilantro

PREPARATIONS:

1. In a large bowl, cover the rice vermicelli with very hot tap water and stir to separate. Let the noodles soak until softened, pliable, and limp but not fully tender, about 20 minutes. Drain.
2. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and toss them with ½ teaspoon of curry powder and sugar. Heat 4 teaspoons of vegetable oil in a 12-inch nonstick skillet over high heat until it is just smoking. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook, without stirring, until they begin to brown about 1 minute. Stir the shrimp and continue to cook until they are spotty brown and just pink around the edges, about 30 seconds. Transfer the shrimp to a bowl.
3. Add the remaining 4 teaspoons of oil to the now-empty skillet and heat it over medium heat until shimmering. Add the shallots, bell peppers, and the remaining 2½ teaspoons of curry powder. Cook until the vegetables are softened, which takes about 3 to 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
4. Stir in the drained noodles, shrimp along with any accumulated juices, chicken broth, soy sauce, mirin, and Sriracha sauce. Cook, tossing gently, until the noodles are well coated and cooked, which takes about 2 to 3 minutes. Finally, stir in the bean sprouts and minced cilantro before serving.

YIELD: This recipe serves 4 people.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• Do not substitute other types of noodles for the rice vermicelli.

TIPS:

• Customize the spiciness of the dish by adjusting the amount of Sriracha sauce.
• Garnish with additional fresh cilantro leaves for an extra burst of flavor and visual appeal.
• Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice before serving for a tangy twist.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION PER SERVING:

• Calories: 410
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 165mg
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 26g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 1420mg

Asian comfort food reaches its peak with this delightful bowl of tender rice vermicelli noodles coated in a fragrant curry sauce. By soaking the noodles and infusing them with the aroma of curry powder, this dish brings together the perfect combination of flavors. The addition of succulent shrimp enhances the taste profile, while minced cilantro and crunchy bean sprouts add a refreshing touch. This visually vibrant and flavorful creation is the epitome of comfort food. Remember to use rice vermicelli specifically to maintain the authentic experience of this dish. Prepare yourself for a comforting and aromatic journey with each mouthful of these savory curry noodles.