This dish, Spicy Ants Climbing a Tree, combines savory ground pork, aromatic ginger and garlic, and the perfect balance of spice from the Sichuan peppercorns. The chewy vermicelli noodles soak up the bold, flavorful sauce, making every bite a delightful explosion of tastes.
Perfect for anyone who loves a little heat with their food, this dish is quick, easy, and highly customizable. Whether you prefer a milder spice level or enjoy a fiery kick, this recipe allows you to adjust the heat to your liking. The fragrant herbs and spices, along with the rich, umami-packed sauce, make this a dish you’ll crave again and again. It’s a perfect weeknight meal, ready in under 30 minutes!
Full Recipe:
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200g dried vermicelli (Chinese glass noodles)
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250g ground pork
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2 tablespoons vegetable oil
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2 tablespoons Sichuan peppercorns
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tablespoons ginger, minced
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2 tablespoons doubanjiang (fermented chili paste)
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1 tablespoon soy sauce
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1 tablespoon rice vinegar
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1 tablespoon sugar
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1/2 cup chicken broth
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1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper
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1 tablespoon scallions, chopped (for garnish)
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1 tablespoon cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
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Soak the vermicelli in warm water for about 15 minutes, or until softened. Drain and set aside.
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Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add Sichuan peppercorns and stir-fry until fragrant.
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Add the minced garlic and ginger to the pan and sauté for about 1-2 minutes.
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Stir in the ground pork and cook until browned, breaking it up into small crumbles.
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Add the doubanjiang (fermented chili paste) and soy sauce to the pork, stirring to coat evenly.
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Pour in the chicken broth, rice vinegar, and sugar. Stir well and let simmer for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
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Add the soaked vermicelli noodles to the skillet, tossing to mix with the pork and sauce.
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Season with ground white pepper to taste.
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Garnish with chopped scallions and cilantro before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Introduction to Spicy Ants Climbing a Tree
Spicy Ants Climbing a Tree, also known as Ma Yi Shang Shu, is a beloved dish in Chinese cuisine, particularly in the Sichuan province. This dish features tender vermicelli noodles coated in a spicy and savory sauce made from ground pork, fermented chili paste, and Sichuan peppercorns, making it a true representation of the bold, flavorful, and spicy essence of Sichuan cooking. The name Ants Climbing a Tree refers to the appearance of the ground pork clinging to the noodles, resembling ants crawling up tree branches. This delicious and aromatic dish is perfect for those who enjoy the unique combination of spice, umami, and a bit of numbing heat, typical of Sichuan cuisine.
The Origins of Spicy Ants Climbing a Tree
The dish Ma Yi Shang Shu dates back to the Qing Dynasty, and although its exact origin story remains unclear, it has become an iconic dish in Sichuan cooking. Its origins may be tied to the idea of cooking with ingredients readily available in rural Chinese kitchens, where vermicelli noodles (also known as glass noodles) were a staple. The dish is both simple and complex, using only a few ingredients that, when combined, create a perfect balance of flavors. Over time, this dish gained popularity due to its unique flavor profile and its representation of the bold spices and ingredients that characterize Sichuan cuisine.
Flavor Profile and Key Ingredients
The rich and savory flavor of Spicy Ants Climbing a Tree comes from the combination of ground pork and the bold flavors of Sichuan cuisine. The key to the dish’s success lies in its balance of spicy, savory, and numbing elements. The fermented chili paste, also known as doubanjiang, provides heat and depth, while the Sichuan peppercorns contribute a distinct numbing sensation, adding complexity to the dish.
The use of rice vinegar and sugar brings a hint of sweetness and acidity, which helps balance the richness of the pork. The vermicelli noodles absorb all the savory sauce, creating a silky, flavorful texture with each bite. The dish is usually garnished with fresh cilantro and scallions to add a burst of freshness and color, completing the flavor experience.
Cultural Significance of the Dish
Spicy Ants Climbing a Tree is more than just a dish; it’s a reflection of Sichuan’s vibrant food culture. Sichuan cuisine is known for its bold and exciting use of spices, particularly the combination of chili peppers and Sichuan peppercorns, which create a “mala” flavor profile — spicy and numbing. This dish embodies the essence of mala cooking, making it a favorite among those who appreciate the exhilarating kick of Sichuan heat.
The dish is often served in Chinese homes, street food stalls, and restaurants, particularly during family gatherings or communal meals, where it adds both flavor and a touch of excitement to the table. It has also gained popularity outside of China, as more people discover the tantalizing flavors of Sichuan cuisine.
Variations of Spicy Ants Climbing a Tree
While the traditional version of Spicy Ants Climbing a Tree uses ground pork, the dish is highly adaptable and can be modified to suit different dietary preferences. For a vegetarian option, you can substitute the pork with mushrooms, tofu, or even plant-based ground meat. The texture of mushrooms or tofu can mimic the ground pork while still soaking up the flavorful sauce.
If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can use lean ground chicken or turkey in place of pork. For those who enjoy a more robust flavor, adding additional ingredients such as dried chilies or fermented black beans can enhance the dish’s complexity.
Additionally, the spice level can be adjusted based on your preferences. If you’re not a fan of extreme heat, you can reduce the amount of doubanjiang or Sichuan peppercorns, making the dish more approachable for those with a milder palate.
Why Spicy Ants Climbing a Tree Is a Must-Try Dish
This dish is a perfect example of how a simple combination of ingredients can come together to create a rich and unforgettable flavor experience. The balance of heat, savoriness, and a subtle numbing sensation makes Spicy Ants Climbing a Tree a standout among other noodle dishes. The chewy texture of the vermicelli noodles combined with the flavorful pork and aromatic spices provides a satisfying meal that is sure to please anyone who loves bold flavors.
Furthermore, Spicy Ants Climbing a Tree is a versatile dish. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a crowd-pleasing party dish, or a way to introduce new flavors to your cooking repertoire, this dish checks all the boxes. It’s easy to prepare, requires only a few basic ingredients, and offers a truly authentic taste of Sichuan cuisine.
Conclusion
Spicy Ants Climbing a Tree is a dish that embodies the heart of Sichuan cuisine. Its vibrant flavors, balanced spices, and simple ingredients make it a must-try for anyone looking to explore the bold world of Chinese cooking. Whether you’re a spice lover or someone new to Sichuan food, this dish is sure to delight your taste buds with its unique combination of flavors and textures. With its versatility, ease of preparation, and irresistible taste, Spicy Ants Climbing a Tree is a dish that will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
Let this dish be your gateway to Sichuan cuisine, and enjoy the heat, flavor, and tradition it brings to the table!