Tongan Sapasui
A Tongan adaptation of the popular Polynesian dish 'chop suey', Sapasui is a flavorful noodle dish typically made with thinly sliced meat (often pork or beef), vegetables, and a savory soy-based sauce. It's a hearty and satisfying meal, often served at gatherings.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Pork shoulder or Beef chuck(thinly sliced)
- 200 g Vermicelli noodles(bean thread or rice vermicelli)
- 1 large Onion(thinly sliced)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 tbsp Ginger(freshly grated)
- 0.5 cup Soy sauce(or to taste)
- 2 tbsp Oyster sauce(optional)
- 1 tsp Sesame oil(optional)
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil(for stir-frying)
- 1 cup Frozen mixed vegetables(peas, carrots, corn)
- 0.5 cup Water(or more, as needed)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the noodles: Soak vermicelli noodles in hot water according to package directions until softened. Drain and set aside. Some prefer to cut the softened noodles with kitchen scissors into shorter lengths.
- 2
Marinate the meat: In a bowl, combine the thinly sliced meat with half of the soy sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Let it marinate for at least 15-20 minutes.
- 3
Stir-fry aromatics and meat: Heat vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the marinated meat and stir-fry until browned and cooked through.
- 4
Add noodles and sauce: Add the softened vermicelli noodles to the wok. Pour in the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and water. Stir well to combine and coat the noodles and meat evenly.
- 5
Incorporate vegetables: Add the frozen mixed vegetables and sesame oil (if using). Stir-fry for another 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp and the sauce has thickened slightly. Add more water if the mixture seems too dry.
- 6
Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve Sapasui hot, as a main dish or a side.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a more authentic flavor, use pork shoulder or beef chuck, sliced very thinly.
- ✓Don't overcook the noodles; they should be tender but still have a slight bite.
- ✓Adjust the soy sauce and water to achieve your desired sauce consistency.
🔄 Variations
- Add other vegetables like sliced cabbage, bell peppers, or bean sprouts.
- Use chicken or a combination of meats.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add more vegetables or firm tofu.