Cameroonian Spicy Noodle Stir-Fry

Ingredients

In this Cameroonian adaptation of Mee Nam, we incorporate traditional Cameroonian spices and flavors to create a unique twist. The original Thai dish is typically milder in heat and uses Thai spices like lemongrass and Thai basil. However, the Cameroonian version adds a fiery kick with the use of scotch bonnet peppers and Cameroon pepper. Additionally, we incorporate local Cameroonian vegetables and meat to enhance the flavors and adapt the dish to the Cameroonian palate. We alse have the original recipe for Mee nam, so you can check it out.

• 250g (8.8 oz) rice noodles 250g (8.8 oz) rice noodles
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, thinly sliced 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 scotch bonnet pepper, finely chopped 1 scotch bonnet pepper, finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 carrot, julienned 1 carrot, julienned
• 200g (7 oz) chicken breast, thinly sliced 200g (7 oz) chicken breast, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon Cameroon pepper 1 teaspoon Cameroon pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 40g, 5g
• Protein: 20g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. 2.
   Heat vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat.
3. 3.
   Add the sliced onion, minced garlic, and chopped scotch bonnet pepper. Sauté until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
4. 4.
   Add the sliced red bell pepper, julienned carrot, and chicken breast. Stir-fry until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. 5.
   In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, tomato paste, Cameroon pepper, paprika, and salt.
6. 6.
   Pour the sauce over the stir-fried ingredients in the pan. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
7. 7.
   Add the cooked rice noodles to the pan and toss gently to combine with the sauce and vegetables. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the noodles are heated through.
8. 8.
   Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro.
9. 9.
   Serve hot and enjoy the spicy flavors of Cameroonian Spicy Noodle Stir-Fry!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Rice noodles — Ensure not to overcook the noodles as they can become mushy. Follow the package instructions for the perfect texture.
• Scotch bonnet pepper — Handle with caution and use gloves while chopping, as they are extremely spicy. Adjust the amount according to your spice tolerance.

Tips & Tricks

• For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with tofu or mushrooms.
• Adjust the spice level by reducing or increasing the amount of scotch bonnet pepper and Cameroon pepper.
• Add a squeeze of lime juice for a tangy twist.
• Customize the vegetable selection based on seasonal availability.
• Garnish with crushed peanuts for added texture and flavor.

Serving advice

Serve the Cameroonian Spicy Noodle Stir-Fry hot as a main course. It pairs well with a side of fresh salad or steamed vegetables.

Presentation advice

Present the Cameroonian Spicy Noodle Stir-Fry in a vibrant serving dish, garnished with fresh cilantro. The colorful combination of noodles, vegetables, and chicken will make it visually appealing.