Soba Noodles with White Miso Mandarin Turkey, Wok-Seared Snow Peas and Crispy Shiso Cucumber

Instructions

1. 1

   1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook the soba noodles according to the package until tender but still firm, usually 4 to 6 minutes. Drain, rinse under cold water to stop the cooking, and toss with 5 ml (1 tsp) toasted sesame oil to prevent sticking.

2. 2

   2. In a bowl, whisk together the white miso, mandarin juice, mandarin zest, 15 ml (1 tbsp) soy sauce, 15 ml (1 tbsp) rice vinegar, honey, half of the grated ginger, half of the minced garlic, and 45 ml (3 tbsp) water until smooth. Set aside.

3. 3

   3. In another bowl, combine the cucumber with 30 ml (2 tbsp) rice vinegar, 15 ml (1 tbsp) soy sauce, 5 ml (1 tsp) toasted sesame oil, salt, the shiso leaves or mint, and the red pepper flakes if using. Toss well and let sit for 10 minutes while you prepare the rest.

4. 4

   4. Pat the turkey strips dry and toss them with half of the scallion, the remaining grated ginger, and the remaining minced garlic.

5. 5

   5. Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat until very hot. If you want to keep the cooked turkey warm, you can preheat the oven to 200°F / 95°C.

6. 6

   6. Add 15 ml (1 tbsp) vegetable oil to the wok and stir-fry the turkey for 4 to 5 minutes, tossing, until no longer pink and lightly browned. Pour in the miso-mandarin mixture and cook for 2 to 3 minutes more, until the glaze reduces and coats the turkey. If it thickens too much, add 1 or 2 tablespoons of the reserved water. Transfer the turkey to a plate, or keep it warm in the oven at 200°F / 95°C.

7. 7

   7. In the same wok, add the remaining 15 ml (1 tbsp) vegetable oil and stir-fry the snow peas for 2 to 3 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender. Add the soba noodles and toss for 1 minute to heat through and pick up the flavorful juices from the wok.

8. 8

   8. Divide the noodles and snow peas among four plates. Spoon the glazed turkey over the top. Add the crisp cucumber with its dressing, finish with sesame seeds and the remaining scallion, and serve right away.