The flavor of Eastern Henan: the code of Central Plains food in a dish of cabbage vermicelli
It does not have the characteristics of thick oily red sauce and a prestigious reputation like the famous dishes of Henan cuisine. However, with its unique refreshing, crisp and tender taste, and its unique soft and tasty taste, it is deeply rooted in the taste memory of Henan people.
Although there is no precise ancient book record of its historical origin, its evolution can be seen in the traditional custom called "Vermicelli Stew" in the Central Plains region. Henan, where it is located, has abundant sweet potato production. The food made from sweet potatoes, called "sweet potato vermicelli", is extremely chewy and smooth. It is an ingredient that people must save and use in their winter lives. As for cabbage, it is also called cabbage and fennel. Due to its storage resistance and high yield, it has quickly taken root in the Central Plains since it was introduced to China. The wise housewives in Henan combined the locally produced vermicelli with a strong texture with the seasonal, crispy and tender cabbage to create such a homely delicacy that can not only satisfy people's cravings but also make them feel full. Over time, it has become a low-key but solid regional food icon in eastern Henan.
What best embodies its authentic and authentic attributes is the cooking technique of hot pan and quick stir-frying . At a wedding banquet in the countryside of Zhoukou, or during a weekday dinner, you can see a scene like this: the fire on the stove is rising vigorously, and the iron pot is burning to a scalding hot state. Then, a spoonful of oil called local rapeseed oil is put into the pot. In an instant, the aroma of the oil spreads everywhere and fills the air. There is a key point in this step, and the key lies in the activity of "high fire and quick frying". It is necessary to ensure that through the method of "quick frying on high heat", the result of breaking the cabbage can be achieved within tens of seconds. That is to say, the effect of making cabbage lock in its moisture is achieved. After doing this, we can ensure that the iconic crispy texture will appear after the finished dish. Finally, sprinkle a little chicken essence and chopped green garlic sprouts , mix quickly and serve immediately. Paired with a steaming bowl of "Gujia Mo", which is a specialty of Zhoukou, or a pancake that has just been taken out of the pot and is in its original state, this is the most comforting meal for people in the Central Plains.
When the hot summer comes, this delicacy cleverly shows another refreshing look, that is, cold cabbage vermicelli. It is particularly popular in the Xinyang area in southern Henan, which shows the influence and integration of the food culture of the Jianghuai River Valley on the Central Plains. Xinyang people are good at cooking river fresh food and are also good at making cold dishes. They made some changes in the way they handle cabbage and vermicelli and successfully created an excellent appetizer. Similarly, cooked vermicelli needs to be cooled and drained. The numbing aroma of Sichuan peppercorns and the mellow aroma of sesame seeds instantly bring out the sweetness of the vegetables. Mix well and let it sit for a while to allow the flavor to fully penetrate. When you enter the mouth, you can feel the crisp and crispy texture of the cabbage, and the smooth and refreshing vermicelli. The combined aroma spreads between the teeth. When used as a side dish with wine or an appetizer before a meal, it will greatly increase your appetite.
Being in a state of one hot and one cool, there are two different ways of doing it, just like the two sides of Henan's food culture. On the one hand, it has the thick and simple characteristics of the hinterland of the Central Plains, and on the other hand, it has the eclectic and elegant style of the junction of the north and the south. It does not have that ostentatious quality, but it is full of authenticity; it is not a precious type, but the warmth it contains is fully in place. This is the same situation as the people who have lived in this land for generations. The next time you go to Henan, you might as well walk into an ordinary shop, order a plate of food, and carefully taste the code of Central Plains food hidden in it.
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