Chinese Bhel: Easy, Spicy Street Food Recipe

The Chinese Bhel recipe is a delightful fusion of street food flavors, combining the zest of Indian spices with the tangy sauces that characterize Chinese cuisine. Known for its vibrant appearance and lip-smacking taste, this dish has become a popular snack in India, often found at street food vendors. Below, we'll guide you through an easy-to-follow recipe to make this spicy treat at home.

Ingredients

• 200 grams of crispy fried noodles (sevai or hakka noodles)
• 1 cup of shredded cabbage
• ¹⁄₂ cup of julienned carrots
• ¹⁄₄ cup of sliced spring onions
• ¹⁄₄ cup of chopped bell peppers (red, yellow, green)
• 1 tablespoon of minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon of minced ginger
• 2-3 green chilies, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon of chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon of tomato ketchup
• 1 teaspoon of vinegar
• Salt to taste
• 1 tablespoon of oil
• 2 tablespoons of chopped coriander leaves

Preparation Steps

Frying the Noodles

1. Heat Oil: Pour enough oil in a deep pan to cover the noodles and heat it to medium-high.
2. Fry: Drop the noodles in small batches into the hot oil, ensuring they are well separated. Fry until they turn a golden brown color.
3. Drain: Remove from oil and place on a paper towel to drain excess oil.

Making the Chinese Bhel

1. Prepare Vegetables: In a wok or large frying pan, heat 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the garlic, ginger, and green chilies. Sauté for about 30 seconds.
2. Add Vegetables: Add cabbage, carrots, bell peppers, and spring onions. Stir-fry on high heat for 2-3 minutes to retain their crunch.
3. Season: Incorporate the soy sauce, chili sauce, tomato ketchup, vinegar, and salt. Mix thoroughly and cook for another minute.
4. Combine: Turn off the heat, add the fried noodles to the vegetable mix, and toss quickly to ensure the noodles remain crispy. Mix in the coriander leaves.

🌶️ Note: Adjust the quantity of green chilies based on your spice tolerance. If you like it less spicy, you can also use red chili flakes.

Tips for Serving

• Crispness: Serve immediately after mixing to retain the crunch of the noodles.
• Garnish: Garnish with extra coriander leaves and sprinkle some roasted sesame seeds for an added texture.

🍜 Note: Chinese Bhel is best enjoyed fresh as the noodles soften with time.

Notes on Customization

• Vegan Options: Replace ketchup with a vegan alternative if you’re adhering to a vegan diet.
• Gluten-Free: Opt for gluten-free noodles to accommodate dietary restrictions.

This fusion of flavors captures the essence of street food in a quick and delicious recipe that's perfect for an evening snack or even as a side dish for casual gatherings. The play of textures and the harmony of spicy, sweet, and tangy flavors make Chinese Bhel a must-try for anyone seeking a culinary adventure from the comfort of their home.

Remember, the key to this dish is the balance of flavors and textures. Adjust the sauces to your liking, but keep in mind that the noodles should be the star, with the vegetables and spices enhancing rather than overpowering them. Enjoy the process of making this easy street food favorite, and savor each bite, as it truly represents the spirited Indian street food scene with an exotic twist.

What are the key ingredients for authentic Chinese Bhel?

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Crispy fried noodles, a mix of fresh vegetables like cabbage, carrots, bell peppers, and an assortment of sauces including soy, chili, and tomato ketchup are essential.

Can Chinese Bhel be made vegetarian or vegan?

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Absolutely! Use vegan-friendly sauces or alternatives to create a vegan version, and keep it vegetarian by ensuring all ingredients are meat-free.

How long can you store Chinese Bhel?

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Chinese Bhel is best served immediately. However, you can store the prepared ingredients separately and combine just before serving to retain the freshness and crunch.