Chilli Soya Chunks

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:

  1. Soak the soya chunks in hot water and salt for about 15-20 minutes or until they turn soft.
  2. Drain and rinse the soaked soya chunks under cold water.
  3. Boil water in a saucepan and add the soaked soya chunks. Boil for 4-5 minutes.
  4. Drain the water and squeeze out the excess water from the soya chunks. Set them aside.

Making Chilli Soya Chunks:

  1. Heat oil in a pan or wok over medium-high heat.
  2. Add minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for a minute until fragrant.
  3. Add thinly sliced onions and sauté until they turn translucent.
  4. Toss in the sliced bell pepper and green chilies. Cook for a couple of minutes until they slightly soften yet retain their crunch.
  5. Add the boiled soya chunks to the pan. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, ensuring they are well combined with the veggies.

Sauce Preparation:

  1. In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, tomato ketchup, chili sauce, vinegar, sugar (if using), and a pinch of salt.
  2. In another small bowl, mix corn flour with water to create a slurry.

Final Steps:

  1. Pour the sauce mixture over the soya chunks and vegetables. Mix well to coat everything evenly.
  2. 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.
  3. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves (if using).
  4. 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.