Szechuan Noodles

Easy spicy Noodles recipe seasoned with Szechuan peppercorns

Szechuan Noodles are a bold and spicy dish that combines noodles with minced meat and colorful vegetables, seasoned with Szechuan peppercorns for a unique numbing sensation. This recipe serves four and is perfect for spice lovers!

Ingredients

For the Noodles:

• 12 oz (340 g) wheat noodles (or your favorite type of noodles)
• Salt (for boiling water)

For the Meat and Vegetables:

• 1 lb (450 g) ground pork (or chicken, beef, or tofu)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, grated
• 1 bell pepper, sliced (red or green)
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup carrots, julienned
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

For the Szechuan Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon chili paste (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon Szechuan peppercorns, crushed
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

1. Boil Water: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
2. Cook Noodles: Add the wheat noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 5–7 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat and Vegetables

1. Heat Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Cook Meat: Add the ground pork (or your choice of protein) and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
3. Add Aromatics: Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add Vegetables: Add the sliced bell pepper, broccoli florets, and julienned carrots. Stir-fry for about 3–5 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.

Step 3: Make the Szechuan Sauce

1. Combine Sauce Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili paste, crushed Szechuan peppercorns, sugar, and sesame oil until well combined.
2. Add Sauce to Skillet: Pour the Szechuan sauce over the meat and vegetables in the skillet. Toss everything together to coat evenly and cook for an additional minute.

Step 4: Combine Noodles and Serve

1. Mix in Noodles: Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss well to combine all ingredients. Cook for another minute or two until everything is heated through.
2. Garnish: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions.
3. Enjoy: Serve your homemade Szechuan Noodles hot and enjoy the bold flavors!

 

Tips for Perfect Szechuan Noodles

Protein Options: Feel free to substitute ground pork with chicken, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

Adjust the Heat: Modify the amount of chili paste to suit your spice preference; start with less if you're unsure.

Fresh Vegetables: Use seasonal vegetables for the best flavor and texture; snap peas or bok choy can be great additions.

Noodle Choice: Use fresh noodles if available, as they tend to absorb flavors better than dried noodles.

 

This unique and flavorful Szechuan Noodles recipe is a fantastic choice for those who enjoy spicy and savory dishes. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Discover more about Chinese noodles