Deep-Fried Rice Noodles

• 6 cups peanut oil
• 2 ounces dried thin rice noodles (rice sticks; similar in size to capellini no. 11)

Place the oil in a wok and heat to 350°F on a deep-frying thermometer. When the oil is ready, carefully place the noodles in it. They will expand to four times their volume in about 8 seconds. Using a Chinese strainer, remove them from the oil and drain over a bowl.

This mass of fried rice noodles makes a fine garnish for various dishes, especially stir-fries. You can use the same metho