Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 350kcal
If you’re looking for a dish that’s as versatile as your favorite pair of sweatpants, this Ants in a Tree recipe is about to become your new go-to. Picture this: a busy weeknight when you want something hearty yet light. Pair this meal with a simple side of steamed broccoli or a fresh cucumber salad, and you're golden. You’ll feel like you’ve hit the jackpot!
Ants in a Tree might have a peculiar name, but don't let that deter you. This dish offers a fantastic balance of flavor, texture, and simplicity. With its roots in Chinese cuisine, this quick stir-fry showcases glass noodles (or vermicelli) adorned with seasoned ground meat and zingy spices. It’s a homestyle meal that can easily become a favorite for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends.
At its core, Ants in a Tree combines translucent glass noodles with ground pork (or chicken) and a medley of sauces that create a savory profile. The name comes from the way the ground meat looks like little "ants" scattered over the “trees” of noodles. It’s simple yet scrumptious, offering a taste of comfort food that is a breeze to whip up.
This recipe shines because it couples a handful of ingredients with fast cooking techniques. The glass noodles soak up all the delicious flavors from the savory sauces, while the ground pork adds protein to make it filling. Plus, it can be on the table in under 30 minutes!
Think of a dish that is a wonderful blend of savory, slightly spicy, and umami-rich with a delightful crunch from the scallions. The ginger adds a lovely warmth, and the fermented bean sauce delivers a punch that ties everything together. It’s a comforting dish that tastes as if you’ve slaved away in the kitchen all day.
Many traditional recipes call for various types of proteins or sauces that may overwhelm the flavor. This version keeps it rustic and unpretentious, letting the main elements shine. I’ve kept the ingredient list simple but flavorful and added a pop of extra zing with a splash of sesame oil, making it a standout recipe.
To whip up this delightful dish, you’ll need:
- 4 oz. vermicelli noodles or glass noodles
- 1 tablespoon of oil (preferably sesame or vegetable oil)
- 1 tablespoon ginger, finely minced
- 2 tablespoons spicy fermented bean sauce
- 4 oz. ground pork (or ground chicken, if you prefer)
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons light soy sauce
- ¼ cup scallion, chopped
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (for added flavor)
Ready to dive into cooking? Follow these simple steps to create your Ants in a Tree that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Start by placing your dry vermicelli or glass noodles in a bowl and covering them with cold water. Let them soak for about 10 minutes or until they are pliable. Once done, rinse them well under cold water and drain. This step is crucial to ensure your noodles don't clump together later.
Grab your trusty wok and heat the oil over medium heat. Add the minced ginger to the pan. Sauté it for about a minute until fragrant. Be sure not to let it brown too much—this flavor is foundational, so we want it to stay fresh and vibrant!
Next, stir in the spicy fermented bean sauce. Let that cook for another minute to awaken all those flavors. This ingredient is where the magic happens, so be sure to get it well mixed with the ginger.
Time to add in the ground pork (or chicken). Stir-fry the meat until it's cooked through, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Break it apart as you mix it in, ensuring that every bite has a piece of the protein.
Pour in the chicken stock, followed by the sugar, dark soy sauce, and light soy sauce. Bring this flavorful mixture to a boil. When it bubbles up, it will transform into a delicious sauce that coats the noodles later.
Now, toss the soaked glass noodles and chopped scallions into the wok. Stir everything together quickly for 1-2 minutes until the noodles are heated through and have absorbed the sauce.
Once everything is well combined, drizzle that delightful tablespoon of sesame oil over the top. Give it one last toss to mix in that nutty flavor. Your dish is now ready for serving!
- Noodle Alternatives: Feel free to substitute with another type of noodle if glass noodles aren't readily available.
- Meat Options: Ground turkey or beef can be used for a different flavor profile.
- Spice Levels: Adjust the amount of fermented bean sauce according to your spice tolerance.
- Veggie Boost: Incorporate snap peas or shredded carrots for additional texture and nutrition.
- Make Ahead: Prepare your ingredients the night before, making the cooking process a breeze when you're ready to eat.
Store any leftover Ants in a Tree in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan or microwave, adding a splash of chicken stock to revive the dish as needed.
Each serving of Ants in a Tree contains about 350 calories, making it a hearty yet healthy option. It packs in protein and is relatively low in carbohydrates due to the glass noodles. The fiber from any veggies you add can also contribute to a more balanced dish.
- Steamed Broccoli: A classic pairing, brightening the plate and adding some greens.
- Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and crisp, this balances out the savory dish nicely.
- Stir-Fried Veggies: Toss together your favorite seasonal vegetables to add crunch and color.
- Spring Rolls: These can serve as a delightful starter that complements the main dish.
- Rice: Serve over steamed rice for a more filling meal, soaking up the extra sauce.
- Vermicelli Noodles:Rice noodles or even soba noodles can work well as substitutes.
- Ground Pork: Use ground turkey or tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Spicy Fermented Bean Sauce:Red chili paste can be a good alternative for some heat.
- Chicken Stock: Substitute with vegetable broth if you're looking for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- Scallions:Chives or finely chopped onions can replace scallions in a pinch.
Ants in a Tree is so much more than just a quirky name. It's a delightful, quick dish that can be tailored to fit your pantry and tastes. With this recipe, you'll impress family or friends—maybe even get them to join you in whipping it up. So, grab those ingredients, channel your inner chef, and get ready to enjoy a satisfying meal that proves comfort food can also be quick and healthy! Happy cooking!
Ants in a Tree might have a peculiar name, but don't let that deter you. This dish offers a fantastic balance of flavor, texture, and simplicity. With its roots in Chinese cuisine, this quick stir-fry showcases glass noodles (or vermicelli) adorned with seasoned ground meat and zingy spices. It’s a homestyle meal that can easily become a favorite for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends.
Servings 4
- Noodle Alternatives: Feel free to substitute with another type of noodle if glass noodles aren't readily available.
- Meat Options: Ground turkey or beef can be used for a different flavor profile.
- Spice Levels: Adjust the amount of fermented bean sauce according to your spice tolerance.
- Veggie Boost: Incorporate snap peas or shredded carrots for additional texture and nutrition.
- Make Ahead: Prepare your ingredients the night before, making the cooking process a breeze when you're ready to eat.
Willie Regan is a registered dietitian and passionate home cook, inspired by the comforting, traditional recipes passed down from his grandmother. Based in Worcester, Willie shares wholesome, heartwarming dishes through his blog Grandma’s Tasty Recipes, blending nostalgic flavors with modern dietary insights. His mission is to bring people together through food, fostering a love for cooking and creating cherished memories around the table.