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Dan Dan Noodles

Dan Dan Noodles is a beloved Sichuan street food known for its bold flavors and satisfying texture. The dish features silky noodles topped with a spicy, savory sauce that balances heat, numbing Sichuan peppercorns, and rich ground meat, creating an addictive combination of flavors. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or for impressing guests, Dan Dan Noodles offer a taste of authentic Chinese cuisine right in your own kitchen.

Originating from Sichuan province, Dan Dan Noodles have a historical background tied to street vendors who carried their fresh ingredients on poles. The name 'Dan Dan' refers to the carrying poles used by vendors to transport their noodles and toppings, thus giving the dish its charming name. Over time, this dish has gained international popularity due to its intense flavors and comforting appeal.

Prep time: 10 minCook time: 15 minTotal time: 25 minCalories: 550 kcal

Dandannoodles.jpg by BetacommandBot is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

Ingredients

  • 8 oz fresh or dried Chinese wheat noodles
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp ginger, minced
  • 1/2 lb ground pork or beef
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp black vinegar
  • 1 tbsp chili paste or Sichuan chili oil
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1 tsp sesame paste or tahini
  • 1/4 cup chopped scallions
  • 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds
  • 1/2 tsp Sichuan peppercorns, ground
  • Optional: chopped preserved vegetables (zha cai)

Instructions

  1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add minced garlic and ginger; sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  3. Add ground pork or beef to the skillet. Cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a spatula.
  4. Stir in soy sauce, black vinegar, chili paste, and sugar. Cook for another 2 minutes to combine the flavors.
  5. Reduce heat to low. Mix in sesame paste or tahini, stirring until the sauce is smooth and well incorporated.
  6. Add a splash of water or chicken broth if the sauce is too thick. Simmer for 1-2 minutes.
  7. Divide cooked noodles into serving bowls. Ladle the hot sauce and meat mixture over the noodles.
  8. Garnish with chopped scallions, toasted sesame seeds, and ground Sichuan peppercorns. Add preserved vegetables if desired.
  9. Serve immediately and enjoy the complex, spicy, and aromatic flavors of traditional Dan Dan Noodles.