Shanxi Belt Noodles (Biang Biang Mian, biang biang 面), a culinary star of northwestern China's Shanxi province, are renowned for their satisfyingly chewy texture and intensely flavorful sauce. These wide, flat noodles, often hand-pulled to impressive lengths, are a testament to the region's rich noodle-making traditions. Their name, "biang biang," mimics the sound the noodles make as they are slapped against the table during preparation, a rhythmic process that adds to their rustic charm. The intensely spicy and fragrant sauce, typically built on a foundation of chili oil, garlic, and vinegar, creates a perfect balance of heat and tanginess that complements the noodles perfectly.
Beyond their captivating history and unique preparation, Shanxi Belt Noodles offer a truly unforgettable taste experience. The simple yet bold flavors, combined with the satisfying chewiness of the noodles, make them a culinary adventure waiting to be explored. Ready to embark on this delicious journey? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions to make your own authentic Shanxi Belt Noodles.
Tools Needed
- blender
- pot
- rolling pin
- kitchenaid (optional)
Ingredients
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Dough
- Blanch cilantro for 15 seconds, rinse with cold water.
- Blend blanched cilantro with 0.5 tsp salt and water (if needed) to create a puree (approx. 175g).
- Combine cilantro puree with 300g bread flour. Knead for 8 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add more flour; if it's too tight, add a little water.
- Shape the dough into a ball, cover, and let it rest for at least 1 hour.
Step 2. Make and Prepare the Dipping Sauce
- Combine 0.5 tsp salt, 3 tsp 13-spice powder (or 5-spice powder), 1/3 tsp Sichuan peppercorn powder, 2 tbsp minced garlic, 3 tbsp diced scallion, 1 tbsp roasted sesame seeds, 1.5 tbsp red chili flakes (or sweet paprika for a non-spicy version), and 3 tbsp hot cooking oil.
- Add 3 tbsp soy sauce and 1 tbsp Chinese black vinegar to the dipping sauce, and mix well. Divide into three bowls.
Step 3. Roll, Cut, and Cook the Noodles
- Roll the rested dough into a very thin sheet (approx. 1.5mm thick) using a rolling pin. Sprinkle cornstarch to prevent sticking.
- Fold the sheet, then cut into 1-inch wide ribbons (belt noodles).
- Cook the noodles in boiling water for 2 minutes. Add green leafy vegetables during the last minute of cooking.
Step 4. Serve and Enjoy!
- Transfer noodles and vegetables to a bowl. Add some noodle cooking water (3/4 cup total, added in batches) to each serving of dipping sauce to adjust consistency and taste. It should be saltier than usual.
- Serve and enjoy! Dip the noodles in the sauce.
Read more: Chinese Wonton Soup: Thousand-Li Fragrance Recipe
Tips
- If you don't like cilantro, substitute with the same amount of baby spinach.
- When rolling the dough, apply force in four directions: down, forward, left, and right, simultaneously for even expansion.
- Cornstarch prevents sticking better than bread flour when rolling out the dough.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. What are Shanxi Belt Noodles (Biang Biang Mian)?
They're wide, flat noodles from Shanxi province, China, known for their chewy texture and spicy, flavorful sauce. The name 'biang biang' imitates the sound of the noodles being slapped during preparation.
2. What makes the sauce so flavorful?
The sauce typically includes chili oil for heat, garlic for pungency, vinegar for tang, and often soy sauce and other spices for depth of flavor. It's a delicious balance of spicy, savory, and sour.
3. Can I make the noodles myself?
While traditionally hand-pulled, you can use pre-made wide noodles if you don't have time or experience with noodle-making. The key is finding wide, flat noodles to capture the essence of the dish.
Making Shanxi Belt Noodles is a rewarding culinary experience, allowing you to savor the authentic flavors of northwestern China in your own kitchen. The satisfying chew of the noodles combined with the vibrant, spicy sauce creates a dish that’s both delicious and deeply satisfying. So gather your ingredients, and embark on this flavorful adventure—you won’t be disappointed!