Ethnic Day - Japan

[Guest guest]

Here is one, from the new Nina Simonds:

 

* Exported from MasterCook *

 

Spicy Pesto Soba

 

Recipe By : Asian Noodles by Nina Simonds

Serving Size : 6 Preparation Time :0:00

Categories :

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method

-------- ------------ --------------------------------

1/2 lb snow peas, remove strings -- slice lengthwise

1 oz dried shiitake mushrooms, rehydrated

3/4 lb soba noodles -- cook/rinse/drain

3/4 cup scallion greens -- minced

SPICY PESTO

1 red chile pepper -- or 1 tsp crushed

6 cloves garlic

1 cup fresh basil leaves

1/2 cup fresh mint leaves

1 tbsp toasted sesame oil

RICE WINE DRESSING

1/2 cup soy sauce -- + 1 tbsp

6 tbsp japanese rice vinegar

3 tbsp sugar

2 tbsp mirin (japanese sweet rice wine) -- OR

2 tbsp chinese rice wine -- or sake + 1 T. sugar

 

 

For pesto: Blend all ingredients to a paste in a food processor or a

blender.

 

For dressing: Whisk all ingredients together in a small bowl. Set aside.

 

For noodles: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the snow peas and

blanch for 10 seconds. Drain, refresh in cold water, and drain again.

Blot dry with paper towels.

 

In a bowl, toss together the noodles and the spicy pesto. Arrange the

noodles on a platter and arrange the snow peas, and scallions in

concentric circles on top, with the scallions in the center. Serve the

dressing on the side or sprinkle the dressing on top and toss lightly.

 

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

 

NOTES : To rehydrate the shiitakes, place them in a heat proof bowl.

Cover with boiled water and put something on top, like a towel. Let sit

for 20-30 minutes. Strain into another bowl or a Pyrex measuring cup.

Reserve the liquid.

 

Original recipe calls for c*****n and I used the mushrooms instead. It

gave it a m**ty feel without the m**t. It also gave it a more japanese

feel.

 

RisaG