Make STREET STYLE Egg Chicken Chowmein at Home: Famous Kolkata’s Street Food Recipe
Kolkata, the cultural capital of India, is famous for its vibrant street food scene. Among the must-try dishes is the beloved Egg Chicken Chowmein. This delightful stir-fried noodle dish is a staple of the city’s street vendors, offering a fusion of flavors that keeps food enthusiasts coming back for more. Here, we will take you through a simple recipe to recreate this street-style favorite right in your kitchen.
What is Chowmein?
Chowmein, originally a Chinese dish, has been embraced and adapted by various cultures. In Kolkata, it features soft noodles stir-fried with a mix of vegetables, chicken, and eggs, often seasoned with a blend of spices and sauces that give it a unique twist.
Ingredients
For the Chowmein:
- Noodles: 200 grams (egg or wheat noodles)
- Chicken: 200 grams (boneless, cut into thin strips)
- Eggs: 2 large
- Cabbage: 1 cup (finely shredded)
- Carrots: 1 medium (julienned)
- Capsicum: 1 medium (quickly stir-fried)
- Onion: 1 medium (sliced)
- Garlic: 2 cloves (finely chopped)
- Ginger: 1-inch piece (finely chopped)
- Green chilies: 2 (slit)
- Soy sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Chili sauce: 1 tablespoon (optional for spice)
- Vinegar: 1 tablespoon
- Salt and pepper: to taste
- Cooking oil: 2 tablespoons
- Spring onions: for garnish
Optional:
- Toppings: Fried onions, chopped coriander, or extra green chilies for serving.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Noodles
- Boil the Noodles: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the noodles and cook according to package instructions (usually about 4-5 minutes). Drain the water and rinse under cold water to stop further cooking. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat Oil: In a large wok or skillet, add 1 tablespoon of oil and heat over medium flame.
- Stir-Fry Chicken: Add the chicken strips and stir-fry until they are cooked through and slightly browned (about 5-7 minutes). Remove the chicken and set aside.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
- Add More Oil: In the same wok, add another tablespoon of oil.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add chopped garlic, ginger, and green chilies. Sauté for a minute until fragrant.
- Add Vegetables: Add sliced onion, cabbage, carrot, and capsicum. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes or until the veggies are tender but still crisp.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
- Add Eggs: Push the sautéed vegetables to one side of the pan. Crack the eggs into the other side and scramble them until they are fully cooked.
- Mix Everything: Add the cooked chicken and noodles to the wok. Toss everything together.
Step 5: Season
- Add Sauces: Pour in the soy sauce, chili sauce (if using), and vinegar. Mix well, ensuring that the noodles are evenly coated with sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Final Toss: Stir-fry everything together for another 2-3 minutes to ensure the dish is heated through.
Step 6: Serve
- Garnish: Remove the chowmein from heat. Garnish with chopped spring onions and any optional toppings.
- Enjoy Hot: Serve the Egg Chicken Chowmein immediately, ideally with a side of chili sauce for those who like an extra kick.
Tips for Authentic Street Style
- Wok Cooking: Using a wok gives the best results due to its high heat and ample space for stir-frying. If you don’t have one, a large skillet will also work.
- High Heat: Keep the flame high while stir-frying to achieve that characteristic street food taste and texture.
- Don’t Overcook: Ensure your vegetables remain slightly crunchy for added texture and flavor.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to make Street Style Egg Chicken Chowmein, it’s time to gather your ingredients and give this popular Kolkata street food a try at home. With its vibrant flavors and fulfilling texture, this dish is not only an excellent meal but also a culinary journey to the bustling streets of Kolkata. Enjoy your cooking!
