Main Courses > Pasta & Noodles > Asian Noodles > Dan Dan Noodles

Authentic Dan Dan Noodles

A flavorful and spicy Sichuan noodle dish featuring a rich sesame sauce, chili oil, and savory ground pork. This Dan Dan Noodles recipe delivers an authentic taste experience with easy-to-follow instructions.

Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
Servings
2
Ingredients
  • 200 g Dried Sichuan Noodles
  • 150 g Ground Pork
  • 2 tbsp Ya Cai (Sichuan Pickled Mustard Greens), finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp Preserved Vegetable (Zha Cai), finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp Sesame Paste (or Tahini)
  • 2 tbsp Light Soy Sauce
  • 1 tbsp Chinese Black Vinegar (Chinkiang Vinegar)
  • 1 tsp Sugar
  • 2 tbsp Chili Oil
  • 1/2 tsp Sichuan Peppercorn Powder
  • 1 clove Minced Garlic
  • 2 tbsp Chopped Green Onions
  • 2-3 tbsp Chicken Broth or Water

Preparing the Pork

In a dry wok or pan, stir-fry the ground pork over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside. This step removes excess fat and adds flavor to the pork.

Making the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine sesame paste (or tahini), light soy sauce, Chinese black vinegar, sugar, chili oil, Sichuan peppercorn powder, and minced garlic. Mix well. Add chicken broth or water, one tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches a pourable consistency. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. The sauce should be a balance of savory, spicy, and slightly sweet.

Cooking the Noodles

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the dried Sichuan noodles and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the noodles well.

Assembling the Dish

Divide the cooked noodles between two bowls. Pour the sauce over the noodles. Top with the stir-fried ground pork, Ya Cai (Sichuan pickled mustard greens), preserved vegetable (Zha Cai), and chopped green onions. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

Note: These are estimations and can vary based on specific ingredients used.

Calories: 250-300
Protein: 10-15g
Fat: 15-20g
Carbohydrates: 20-25g

Other Considerations for Nutrition

This dish is relatively high in sodium due to the soy sauce, pickled vegetables, and preserved vegetable. Consider using low-sodium soy sauce and reducing the amount of pickled/preserved vegetables if you are watching your sodium intake. Chili oil adds fat; adjust the amount to your preference. You can also use whole wheat noodles for more fiber.

← Authentic Fettuccine Alfredo →

FAQ

  • Can I use regular spaghetti noodles?

    While traditional Dan Dan Noodles use specific Sichuan noodles, you can substitute with spaghetti, but the texture and flavor will be different. Try to find a thicker, non-egg noodle for a closer approximation.
  • Where can I find Ya Cai and Zha Cai?

    These ingredients can typically be found at Asian grocery stores, particularly those specializing in Chinese or Sichuan cuisine. You may also be able to find them online.
  • What can I use instead of sesame paste?

    Tahini is a good substitute for sesame paste. If you don't have either, you can try using peanut butter in a pinch, but it will alter the flavor significantly.
  • How spicy is this dish?

    The spiciness of Dan Dan Noodles is determined by the amount of chili oil and Sichuan peppercorn powder used. Adjust the amount of chili oil to your preferred level of spice.