The Chopping Block Cooking & Wine Blog

Dan Dan Noodles Made Easy: Unraveling the Sichuan Magic

Written by Biz | Aug 1, 2023 3:30:00 PM

 

 

Virtual cooking classes offer a gateway to a world of culinary exploration, where you can learn how to cook and unlock your inner chef. In addition to the many delightful dishes you can learn to prepare in our classes, Dan Dan Noodles stand out as a must-try for their ease of preparation and unparalleled deliciousness.

This recipe is perfect for everything: meal prepping, easy lunches or weeknight dinners when you need something tasty on the table quickly. Dan Dan Noodles are a classic Sichuan dish featuring wheat noodles topped with a spicy and savory sauce, minced pork, and crushed peanuts, creating a harmonious explosion of flavors and textures in every delectable bite.

Dan Dan Noodles

Scroll down for a printable version of this recipe

Serves: 1

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 10 minutes

Total time: 20 minutes

 

3 ounces lean ground pork

1 cup mixed vegetables

47 grams dry Dan Dan or wheat noodles

1 teaspoon chili oil

1 Tablespoon soy sauce

1 teaspoon dark soy sauce

Avocado oil spray, for cooking

1 Tablespoon crushed peanuts

  1. Cook the noodles following the package directions. You can use Dan Dan noodles or wheat lo mein noodles.
  2. Heat a wok or large skillet over medium heat and spray with avocado oil.
  3. Cook the ground pork for 2-3 minutes.
  4. Add chili oil and soy sauces to the pan, and cook for one more minute.
  5. Toss in the noodles and vegetables, ensuring they are coated, and cook for an additional minute.
  6. Plate and top with crushed peanuts.

 

Substitutions 

Turn this into a Meatless Monday meal by swapping the ground pork for extra firm tofu. Be sure to drain the tofu really well, and crumble to mimic the ground pork flavor. Optional: once crumbled, toss the tofu in a tablespoon of cornstarch prior to cooking to get crispy crumbles.

Don’t have dark soy sauce? That’s okay! Use double the amount of regular soy sauce instead. Dark soy adds a nice, rich caramel color to the dish and is slightly thicker and more pungent than regular soy. Dark soy sauce can typically be found at your nearest Asian grocery store or online.

Cooking up Confidence 

Cooking is not just about following recipes; it's a journey of exploration, creativity, and self-discovery. Whether you're a novice cook or someone who already dabbles in the culinary arts, learning how to cook opens up a world of possibilities. Virtual cooking classes provide a safe and supportive environment for participants to hone their skills, experiment with new ingredients, and gain confidence in the kitchen.

Through these classes, you'll learn fundamental cooking techniques, time-saving tips, and the art of balancing flavors. The knowledge gained in virtual cooking classes extends beyond a single dish, empowering you to create an array of culinary delights that will impress family and friends.

Embrace the joy of cooking, experiment with new flavors, and have fun in the comfort of your own kitchen. Why wait? Dive into the world of virtual cooking classes (or join us in person!) and embark on a journey of gastronomic delight. Sign up today for Virtual Chicken with Garlic-Black Bean Sauce on Friday, August 11 at 6pm CST. 

Yield: 1
Author: Biz Velatini

Dan Dan Noodles

Prep time: 10 MinCook time: 10 MinTotal time: 20 Min

Ingredients

  • 3 ounces lean ground pork
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables
  • 47 grams dry Dan Dan or wheat noodles
  • 1 teaspoon chili oil
  • 1 Tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce
  • Avocado oil spray, for cooking
  • 1 Tablespoon crushed peanuts

Instructions

  1. Cook the noodles following the package directions.
  2. Heat a wok or large skillet over medium heat and spray with avocado oil.
  3. Cook the ground pork for 2-3 minutes.
  4. Add chili oil and soy sauces to the pan, and cook for one more minute.
  5. Toss in the noodles and vegetables, ensuring they are coated, and cook for an additional minute.
  6. Plate and top with crushed peanuts.