Chinese Three Slivers, known for its distinct combination of textures and flavors, is a delightful dish that beautifully showcases the contrast between silky enoki mushrooms, crunchy bamboo shoots, and hearty bean curd. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through creating this flavorful dish, which is designed to be enjoyed “taco-style,” wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves. This refreshing and savory treat offers an engaging dining experience and a burst of authentic Asian flavors.
SERVES 4
INGREDIENTS:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 can (4 ounces) sliced bamboo shoots, drained and rinsed
- 3 cakes (about 8 ounces) hard tofu, sliced into 1/4-inch strips and patted dry with a paper towel
- 1 package enoki mushrooms, roots trimmed, washed, and separated into individual strands
- 1/4 cup Asian dumpling sauce (readily available in Asian markets) or any other preferred Asian dipping sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon sambal or another Asian chili paste (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch dissolved in 2 tablespoons cold water
- 1 head iceberg lettuce
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Sauté the Vegetables: Start by heating the vegetable oil in a skillet or wok until it’s very hot but not smoking. Add the sliced bamboo shoots and sauté them for about 1 minute. Then, gently slide the tofu strips into the pan and cook them over high heat without stirring until they become lightly browned.
- Incorporate the Enoki Mushrooms: Once the tofu is slightly browned, introduce the enoki mushrooms into the mix. Add the Asian dumpling sauce, and if you desire a hint of heat, you can include the sambal or another preferred Asian chili paste. To thicken the sauce, pour in the cornstarch solution. Continue to cook for approximately 2 minutes, ensuring the mixture becomes thick and well-coated.
- Prepare the Lettuce Wraps: Carefully select 4 unbroken leaves from the head of iceberg lettuce. Rinse them thoroughly, ensuring they are clean, and then tear each leaf in half.
- Serve and Enjoy: Arrange the cooked Chinese Three Slivers, the star of the dish, in the center of a large serving platter. Surround the bowl with the prepared lettuce pieces. To enjoy this dish, your guests can spoon the flavorful filling into the lettuce leaves, creating their own lettuce wraps. Encourage them to savor this interactive experience by eating these delicious wraps with their hands.
Chinese Three Slivers is a unique and delightful dish that brings together an array of flavors and textures in every bite. The silky enoki mushrooms, crisp bamboo shoots, and hearty tofu meld harmoniously with the savory Asian sauce. Presented “taco-style” with fresh lettuce leaves as the wrappers, this dish not only offers a burst of authentic Asian flavors but also an engaging and enjoyable dining experience.
So, gather your ingredients and embark on a culinary journey to savor the exquisite tastes of Chinese Three Slivers. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or a main course, this dish promises to be a refreshing and satisfying addition to your dining repertoire.
