Description

Addictive Dan Dan Noodles are a spicy, savory, and creamy Sichuan street food dish that combines tender noodles, a rich sauce, and a crunch from peanuts. This easy-to-make recipe is packed with bold flavors, customizable spice levels, and an irresistible umami finish. Whether served warm or cold, these noodles are the ultimate comfort food that will have you craving more!

Ingredients

For the Noodles:

8 oz fresh or dried Chinese wheat noodles (or ramen/spaghetti)
1 tablespoon sesame oil (for cooking)

For the Sauce:

2 tablespoons sesame paste (or tahini)
2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon chili oil (adjust to your spice level)
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
1 teaspoon sugar (or sweetener of choice)
1 teaspoon Chinese black vinegar (optional)
1 tablespoon ginger, minced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Sichuan peppercorns (optional for numbing spice)

For the Toppings:

2 tablespoons roasted peanuts, chopped
1 tablespoon green onions, chopped
1 tablespoon chili flakes (optional, for extra heat)
Fresh cilantro (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the Noodles:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add noodles and cook according to package instructions (2-4 minutes for fresh noodles or 6-8 minutes for dried). Drain and toss with sesame oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
Make the Sauce:
- If using Sichuan peppercorns, toast them in a dry pan over medium heat for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, then crush them lightly.
- In a bowl, whisk together sesame paste, soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili oil, hoisin sauce, sugar, garlic, ginger, and Sichuan peppercorns (if using) until smooth.
Assemble the Dish:
- Toss the cooked noodles with the sauce, making sure they are evenly coated. Adjust sauce consistency by adding reserved pasta water if needed.
Top the Noodles:
- Sprinkle with chopped peanuts, green onions, chili flakes, and cilantro.
Serve:
- Serve the Dan Dan noodles immediately, either warm or chilled. Enjoy the delicious balance of heat, flavor, and crunch!

Notes

Variations: Add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for a veggie-packed version.Add Meat: For an authentic version, sauté beef and add to the noodles along with the sauce.Cold Dan Dan Noodles: Great for hot weather—chill the noodles and sauce for a refreshing take.