| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 15 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 185 | 8g | 1g | 25g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 15g | 4g | 5g | 0.4g |
There are recipes that embrace the essence of one’s roots, yet introduce a refreshing fusion of exotic flavor. One such recipe that I hold dear is the sumptuous and highly nutritious, Royal Ferns in Szechuan Sauce. Hailing from the wholesome heartland of Nebraska, my love for farm-to-table freshness emanates throughout this dish. Evergreen royal ferns paired exquisitely with a tantalizing Szechuan sauce, it is both a twist on classic Asian cuisine and a nod to my Midwestern upbringing.
A Healthful Symmetry of Flavors
Famous for its charming flavor, Szechuan peppercorns impart a distinctive aroma and a lovely lemony taste to our Royal Ferns in Szechuan Sauce. Combined with fresh, minced ingredients like garlic and ginger – renowned for their various health benefits including potent anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties – it’s a recipe that ensures you’re feeding your body with only the best nature has to offer.
Not forgetting, the inclusion of nutrient-packed fresh pineapple chunks that bring a dash of sweetness. Packed with vitamins, enzymes, and antioxidants, pineapples can help combat the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer.
A Delectable Pairing
This vibrant dish mirrors the flavors of classic Szechuan recipes like Szechuan Eggplant, although the use of royal ferns injects a unique spin to it. Complement this main with a simple bowl of white rice or even somen noodles to truly bring out the savoriness of the Szechuan sauce.
An exquisitely versatile side, it can also beautifully accompany a variety of main dishes. Try pairing it with Grilled Whole Branzino or Chinese Orange Chicken for an Asian-themed feast that will charm the palates of friends and family alike.
Life on the Nebraska farm taught me that the best dishes are those grounded in simplicity and fresh produce. Our Royal Ferns in Szechuan Sauce echos this sentiment, marrying Midwestern wholesomeness with an ingenious Asian twist. Here’s to enjoying comforting yet sophisticated home-cooked delights!
What You’ll Need
- 2 bunches of Royal ferns
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon Szechuan peppercorns
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks
- 2 red bell peppers, diced
- 1 cup Szechuan sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, for garnish
Method
Step One
Begin by preparing your ingredients. Wash and cut the royal ferns into 2-inch lengths. Mince the garlic and ginger. Dice the red bell peppers and cut the fresh pineapple into chunks.
Step Two
Heat the vegetable oil in a large frying pan or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add in the Szechuan peppercorns and let them sizzle for about 1-2 minutes to infuse the oil.
Step Three
Add the minced garlic and ginger into the pan. Stir-fry these briefly for about 30 seconds until aromatic, but be careful not to burn them.
Step Four
Next, add in the pineapple chunks and diced red bell peppers. Stir-fry for another 2 minutes, just until the peppers start to soften.
Step Five
Now it’s time to add the royal ferns. Stir-fry these with the rest of the ingredients for another 2-3 minutes until they become tender.
Step Six
Lower the heat to medium and pour in the Szechuan sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sprinkle the brown sugar on top. Stir everything well to evenly coat the ingredients in the sauce. Taste and add salt if needed. Let everything simmer for a few more minutes for the flavors to meld together.
Step Seven
Once cooked, remove the pan from the heat. Sprinkle with sesame seeds for garnish before serving. Enjoy this Royal Ferns in Szechuan Sauce hot as a flavorful and unique side dish.
