How to Make Ants Climbing a Tree (Sichuan Spicy Vermicelli Stir-Fry) - A Step-by-Step Guide

Ants Climbing a Tree is a classic Sichuan dish that has been enjoyed for generations in China. Despite its peculiar name, this dish is actually a delicious and satisfying vermicelli stir-fry that is packed with bold and spicy flavors. The dish gets its name from the appearance of the cooked vermicelli, which resembles ants crawling on tree branches.

This traditional Chinese dish is a popular choice for those who enjoy spicy and flavorful cuisine. The combination of tender vermicelli n...

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Ingredients

  • 2 cups mung bean vermicelli
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • ½ pound ground pork
  • 2 tablespoons dark soy sauce, or more to taste
  • 2 teaspoons Sichuan peppercorn powder
  • ½ cup water
  • 2 stalks green onions, thinly sliced

Information

  • Prep Time: 5 mins
  • Cook Time: 15 mins
  • Additional Time: 15 mins
  • Total Time: 35 mins
  • Servings: 4
  • Yield: 4 servings

  • Place vermicelli in a bowl and cover with water; soak for at least 15 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  • Heat vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium heat until you can feel the heat above the pan. Put in ground pork; cook and stir until browned and crumbly, 5 to 7 minutes. Stir in 2 tablespoons soy sauce. Stir in peppercorn powder until evenly distributed. Add water and bring to a boil.
  • Add drained vermicelli and mix evenly with the pork. Cook until all water has evaporated, about 5 more minutes. Taste and add more soy sauce if not salty enough for you.
  • Transfer to a serving plate and top with green onions.
  • Nutrition

    454 cal.

    • Total Fat: 18g
    • Saturated Fat: 5g
    • Cholesterol: 37mg
    • Sodium: 488mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 61g
    • Dietary Fiber: 1g
    • Total Sugars: 0g
    • Protein: 10g
    • Vitamin C: 2mg
    • Calcium: 32mg
    • Iron: 2mg
    • Potassium: 169mg