\tThere are almost as many different ways of preparing this Szechuan recipe as there are Chinese chefs! Classic Dan Dan Noodles is made with fresh noodles and has a meat topping made with ground pork or beef and (usually) Szechuan preserved vegetable. But there are many variations.<\/p>\n
\tThe one thing you’ll find in every recipe for Dan Dan Noodles is a spicy sauce that includes sesame paste (peanut butter makes a handy substitute) and hot chili oil. Most include roasted Szechuan peppercorn, although this is sometimes left out of the sauce and served as a garnish instead.<\/p>\n
\tThis quick and easy recipe for Dan Dan Noodles combines the spicy sauce with dried pasta noodles. You can, of course, substitute dried Chinese noodles if desired.<\/p>\n
\tTo make Dan Dan Noodles, you will need:
\tSauce:
\t3 tablespoons sesame paste or peanut butter
\t1 1\/2 tablespoons Asian sesame oil
\t3 tablespoons black rice vinegar
\t2 tablespoons light soy sauce
\t1 1\/2 tablespoons dark soy sauce
\t1\/4 teaspoon salt
\t1 – 1 1\/2 teaspoons roasted Szechuan peppercorn*
\t3 teaspoons hot chili oil**
\t1 teaspoon granulated sugar, optional
\t1\/4 cup chicken broth
\tOther:
\t12 ounces dried Chinese noodles or pasta
\tGarnish:
\t1\/3 cup chopped roasted peanuts, or as needed
\t4 spring onions (green onions) finely chopped<\/p>\n
\t*Szechuan peppercorn adds a sharp bite to the sauce. How much to use comes down to personal preference. If you’re unsure, start with 1\/2 teaspoon and do a taste test. You can also leave it out of the sauce altogether and serve on the side as a condiment, allowing everyone to help themselves.<\/p>\n
\t**Again, how much to add comes down to personal preference.<\/p>\n