Chilli Soya Chunks is a zesty, vegetarian dish featuring protein-packed soya chunks in a spicy, flavorful sauce. The recipe involves soaking and boiling the soya chunks before stir-frying them with a vibrant mix of onions, bell peppers, garlic, and ginger. The dish gets its kick from a tantalizing blend of sauces like soy, tomato ketchup, and chili sauce, enhanced with a touch of vinegar and spices. Served piping hot, this dish offers a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and spicy flavors, making it a versatile side or main course that pairs wonderfully with rice or noodles.
Here’s a detailed recipe for Chilli Soya Chunks:
Ingredients:
For Soya Chunks Preparation:
- 1 cup soya chunks (big size)
- Hot water for soaking
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Water for boiling
For Chilli Soya Chunks:
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 onion, cube cut
- 1 bell pepper (capsicum), cube cut
- 2-3 green chilies, slit lengthwise
- 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated or minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon tomato ketchup
- 1 tablespoon chili sauce or Sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- 1 teaspoon corn flour
- 2 tablespoons water
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro (coriander) leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Soya Chunks Preparation:
- Soak the soya chunks in hot water and salt for about 15-20 minutes or until they turn soft.
- Drain and rinse the soaked soya chunks under cold water.
- Boil water in a saucepan and add the soaked soya chunks. Boil for 4-5 minutes.
- Drain the water and squeeze out the excess water from the soya chunks. Set them aside.
Making Chilli Soya Chunks:
- Heat oil in a pan or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for a minute until fragrant.
- Add thinly sliced onions and sauté until they turn translucent.
- Toss in the sliced bell pepper and green chilies. Cook for a couple of minutes until they slightly soften yet retain their crunch.
- Add the boiled soya chunks to the pan. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, ensuring they are well combined with the veggies.
Sauce Preparation:
- In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, tomato ketchup, chili sauce, vinegar, sugar (if using), and a pinch of salt.
- In another small bowl, mix corn flour with water to create a slurry.
Final Steps:
- Pour the sauce mixture over the soya chunks and vegetables. Mix well to coat everything evenly.
- Add the corn flour slurry to the pan. Stir continuously to thicken the sauce and coat the chunks and veggies. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves (if using).
- Serve hot as a side dish or with rice/noodles.
Adjust the spice levels and sauces according to your preference. This Chilli Soya Chunks recipe offers a savory and spicy treat with a delightful mix of textures from the soya chunks and veggies.