Penang Char Kway Teow Recipe - 炒粿条

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of making Penang Char Kway Teow, a beloved Malaysian stir-fried rice noodle dish. Known for its umami flavor, spiciness, and distinctive wok hei (breath of the wok), this recipe will transport you to the vibrant streets of Penang. Follow these steps to recreate this delicious dish at home.

Step 1: Gather Ingredients

You'll need the following ingredients to prepare Penang Char Kway Teow:

• 440g thin guo tiao (flat rice noodles)
• 100g bean sprouts
• 10g scallions (cut into 1-inch lengths)
• 1 tbsp minced garlic
• 1 Chinese sausage (sliced thinly)
• 10 prawns (deveined and deshelled)
• 50g fresh cockles
• 2 eggs (beaten)
• 2 tbsp pork lard (optional)
• 2 tbsp pork crackers (optional)
• 4 banana leaves (for presentation)

Tip

: Make sure your ingredients are prepped before starting to cook, as the stir-frying process is quick.

Step 2: Prepare Sauce Mixture

Before you start cooking, prepare the sauce mixture:

1. In a small bowl, combine your chosen sauces (usually soy sauce or oyster sauce).
2. Mix well and set aside.

Practical Tip

: Adjust the sauce ingredients according to your taste preference for more umami or spice.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Ingredients

Now it's time to bring everything together in a hot wok:

1. Heat your wok over high heat.
2. If using, add the pork lard and let it melt.
3. Add minced garlic and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Toss in the Chinese sausage and cook for another minute.
5. Add the prawns and fresh cockles, stir-frying until the prawns turn pink.
6. Push the ingredients to one side of the wok and pour in the beaten eggs. Scramble until cooked.
7. Add the rice noodles and sauce mixture. Stir-fry everything together for 2–3 minutes until well combined.
8. Finally, add the bean sprouts and scallions, giving it a quick stir to mix.

Common Pitfall

: Avoid overcrowding the wok; cook in batches if necessary to achieve the desired charred flavor.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Once everything is well-mixed and heated through:

1. Plate the Char Kway Teow, optionally garnishing with pork crackers and additional scallions.
2. Serve hot and enjoy!

Real-World Application

: This dish is perfect for gatherings or as a comforting meal at home. Pair it with a cold drink for the ultimate experience.

Conclusion

You’ve successfully made Penang Char Kway Teow! This dish is a wonderful representation of Malaysian cuisine, offering a fantastic balance of flavors and textures. Feel free to experiment with the ingredients and adjust the seasoning to your liking. Next time, consider trying different proteins or vegetables to customize your dish further. Enjoy your culinary journey!