Instructions
STEP 1 - SOAK THE RICE NOODLES Begin by soaking the rice stick noodles overnight in cool water until they are fully softened. This slow soaking process is essential for developing the noodles' tender and slippery texture. STEP 2 - BOIL THE RICE NOODLES Next, bring a pot of water to a gentle boil and cook the soaked noodles for 10 to 15 minutes until they reach the perfect tenderness. Once cooked, immediately rinse them under cold water to halt any further cooking and to prevent sticking. STEP 3 - MARINATING THE SHRIMP In a medium bowl, combine the prawns with half an egg, a pinch of white pepper, one teaspoon of fragrant sesame seed oil, one tablespoon of cornstarch, and one tablespoon of oil. Mix thoroughly to coat the shrimp evenly. This marinade will tenderize the prawns and add a subtle depth of flavor. STEP 4 - STIR FRY Heat two tablespoons of oil in a wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated shrimp and stir-fry until they turn a beautiful golden brown, indicating they are almost cooked through. Remove the shrimp and set aside. Add one more tablespoon of oil to the wok and toss in the minced garlic and fresh ginger. Sauté briefly until fragrant before adding the chopped onions, bean sprouts, and sliced spring onions. Stir-fry the vegetables to retain their crispness. Add the prepared rice noodles to the wok and pour in the cooking wine, oyster sauce, sugar, vinegar, sesame seed oil, a pinch of white pepper, and soy sauce. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly to ensure the noodles are well-coated with the savory sauce. Return the cooked shrimp to the wok and mix to combine with the noodles and vegetables. Finally, in a small bowl, whisk together one tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of water to create a smooth slurry. Slowly drizzle this into the wok while stirring continuously to thicken the sauce to your desired consistency. Serve hot for the best flavors. TIP: Be careful not to overcook the shrimp during stir-frying to keep them tender. Also, tossing the noodles gently helps prevent them from breaking up, preserving the ideal texture for Chow Fun.