- Introduction
The cuisine of Jiangsu is one of the eight great traditions of Chinese cooking. It is renowned for its meticulous preparation, emphasis on the original flavor of ingredients, and balanced taste. Among the many dishes that exemplify the finesse of Jiangsu cuisine, “Crispy Softshell Turtle with Crab Roe Sauce” stands out as a culinary masterpiece. This dish not only showcases the delicate balance between sweet and savory but also highlights the art of preparing softshell turtle meat to achieve a perfect texture.
- Ingredients
To prepare this exquisite dish, you will need:
- Softshell turtle meat – 500 grams
- Crab roe – 100 grams
- Ginger – 15 grams
- Green onions – 10 grams
- Sugar – 15 grams
- Salt – 10 grams
- Vinegar – 5 grams
- Soy sauce – 10 grams
- Water chestnuts – 10 grams
- Fresh mushrooms – 10 grams
- Vegetable oil – 50 grams
- Wheat flour – 30 grams
- Egg white – 10 grams
- Sesame oil – 5 grams
- Water – 150 grams
- Preparation
Step 1: Preparing the Turtle Meat
The first step in making this dish involves carefully cleaning and preparing the softshell turtle meat. Start by thoroughly rinsing the turtle meat under cold running water to remove any impurities. Once cleaned, cut the meat into small, uniform pieces. These pieces should be about 2-3 centimeters in size to ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Preparing the Sauce
Next, prepare the crab roe sauce. Begin by finely chopping the ginger and green onions. Heat a wok over medium heat and add a tablespoon of vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped ginger and stir-fry until fragrant. Then, add the crab roe and stir continuously until it becomes slightly golden. Add the sugar, salt, vinegar, soy sauce, and water chestnuts. Stir well and let the mixture simmer for about five minutes. Finally, add the fresh mushrooms and continue to cook until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Coating the Turtle Meat
In a separate bowl, mix the wheat flour with the egg white to create a smooth batter. Dip each piece of turtle meat into the batter, ensuring they are evenly coated. This step is crucial as it will help the meat achieve a crispy texture when fried.
Step 4: Frying the Turtle Meat
Heat the remaining vegetable oil in a deep fryer or wok over high heat. Once the oil reaches approximately 180 degrees Celsius, carefully place the battered turtle meat pieces into the hot oil. Fry until the meat turns golden brown and crispy on the outside while remaining tender on the inside. Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried meat from the oil and drain on paper towels.
- Cooking
Step 5: Combining the Ingredients
After frying the turtle meat, return the wok to medium heat. Add a little vegetable oil if necessary. Pour in the prepared crab roe sauce and stir well. Add the fried turtle meat pieces back into the sauce and toss gently to coat them evenly with the sauce. Cook for another two to three minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 6: Final Touches
Just before serving, drizzle a small amount of sesame oil over the dish to enhance the aroma and flavor. Gently stir to distribute the oil evenly. The addition of sesame oil adds a subtle nuttiness that complements the rich flavors of the crab roe and the tender, crispy turtle meat.
- Serving Suggestions
This dish is best served immediately after preparation to enjoy its optimal texture and flavor. Pair it with steamed rice or noodles to soak up the flavorful sauce. Additionally, a side of lightly pickled vegetables can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the main course.
- Nutritional Information
Per serving (assuming 4 servings per recipe):
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Total Fat | 25 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4 g |
| Cholesterol | 120 mg |
| Sodium | 750 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugars | 10 g |
| Protein | 35 g |
- Conclusion
“Crispy Softshell Turtle with Crab Roe Sauce” is a testament to the culinary expertise of Jiangsu cuisine. By meticulously selecting high-quality ingredients and employing traditional cooking techniques, this dish delivers a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that are both satisfying and sophisticated. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or an enthusiastic home cook, this recipe offers a delightful journey through the essence of Jiangsu’s culinary heritage.
