Authentic Dan Dan Noodles Recipe

Chinese Dan Dan Recipe

Dan Dan Noodles are a classic Sichuan dish known for their spicy, nutty flavor and delightful textures. This homemade version will guide you through creating this beloved dish, ensuring a truly satisfying culinary experience.

Ingredients

For the Noodles:

• 1 lb (450g) fresh or dried wheat noodles (medium thickness)
• 1 small bunch leafy greens (such as bok choy, spinach, or choy sum)

For the Pork Topping:

• 4 oz (115g) ground pork (or beef)
• 2 tsp light soy sauce
• 2 tsp Shaoxing rice wine (or dry sherry)
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 tbsp minced Sui Mi Ya Cai (preserved mustard greens)
• 1 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)

For the Sauce:

• 1½ tbsp Chinese sesame paste (or tahini)
• 1½ tbsp water
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp light soy sauce
• 1 tbsp black rice vinegar
• ½ tsp ground Sichuan peppercorns
• 2 tbsp Chinese chili oil (adjust to taste)
• A pinch of sugar

For Garnishing:

• Chopped peanuts (skinless, coarsely crushed)
• Chopped scallions (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Noodles

• Cook the noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. If using dried noodles, reserve some cooking water for adjusting the sauce later.

2. Blanch the Greens

• In the same pot, blanch the leafy greens for about 1 minute until bright green. Drain and set aside.

3. Cook the Pork Topping

• In a skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
• Add the ground pork and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
• Stir in the light soy sauce, Shaoxing rice wine, minced Sui Mi Ya Cai, and chili flakes. Cook for an additional minute until well combined.

4. Make the Sauce

• In a bowl, combine the sesame paste, water, minced garlic, light soy sauce, black rice vinegar, Sichuan peppercorns, chili oil, and sugar.
• Whisk until smooth, adjusting the consistency with more water if necessary.

5. Assemble the Dish

• Divide the cooked noodles among serving bowls.
• Pour the prepared sauce over the noodles.
• Top with the cooked pork mixture and blanched greens.
• Sprinkle with chopped peanuts and scallions if desired.

6. Serve

• Mix everything together before eating to ensure each bite is packed with flavor. Enjoy your homemade Dan Dan Noodles while they are hot!

Tips for the Perfect Dan Dan Noodles

• Adjust the Spice: Feel free to modify the chili flakes and chili oil according to your spice tolerance.
• Variations: Substitute ground pork with chicken or tofu for a different protein option.
• Noodle Choices: Fresh noodles often provide the best texture, but dried noodles work well too.

This recipe captures the essence of Dan Dan Noodles, delivering a perfect balance of flavors that you can recreate in your own kitchen. Enjoy!