stewing pickled cabbage and vermicelli

How to Make Sour Cabbage and Glass Noodle Stew

Sour cabbage and glass noodle stew is a comforting, hearty dish popular in Northern China, known for its tangy, umami-rich flavor. Here’s a simple guide to making it at home.

Ingredients:

- 300g sour cabbage (shredded)

- 200g glass noodles (soaked in warm water until soft)

- 200g pork belly (thinly sliced, optional for meat lovers)

- 3 garlic cloves (minced)

- 1 tbsp ginger (grated)

- 1 tbsp soy sauce

- 1 tsp dark soy sauce (for color)

- 1 tsp sugar (to balance sourness)

- 500ml chicken or vegetable broth

- Cooking oil, white pepper, and sesame oil for seasoning

Steps:

1. Prep: Soak glass noodles until soft, then cut into manageable lengths. Rinse sour cabbage under cold water to reduce excess saltiness.

2. Sauté: Heat oil in a pot over medium heat. If using pork, stir-fry until golden, then add garlic and ginger until fragrant.

3. Simmer: Add sour cabbage, stir-fry for 2 minutes, then pour in broth. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.

4. Combine: Add glass noodles, soy sauces, sugar, and white pepper. Simmer for another 5 minutes until noodles absorb the broth.

5. Finish: Drizzle with sesame oil, adjust seasoning, and serve hot.

This dish pairs perfectly with steamed rice, offering a delightful mix of tangy, savory, and chewy textures. Enjoy this warming meal on a cold day!