Home-Style Sea Cucumber

Why people make this dish

Rehydrated sea cucumber has a lovely springy bite, and here it is tossed with pork and bright vegetables for a colorful, fragrant plate. It is quick to prepare and the kind of savory side that gets the appetite going — traditionally said to nourish yin and support the kidneys.

Method

1. Simmer the sea cucumbers in stock with a little wine for 15 minutes to absorb flavor; lift out.
2. Shred the pork and marinate briefly with light soy and cornstarch.
3. Heat oil, fry the ginger and garlic until fragrant, then stir-fry the pork until cooked.
4. Add edamame, corn, cloud ear, and carrot; toss, splash in wine, season, add a little water.
5. Cook a moment, finish with a thin cornstarch glaze, and serve.

Nourilo’s Tips

This dish is fresh-tasting and traditionally said to nourish yin and support the kidneys — suitable for both kidney-yang and kidney-yin constitutions. Small dried sea cucumbers are available at Chinese or Asian grocers, or online.