How To Make Xi'an Biang Biang Noodles?

What is Biang Biang Noodles?

Biang Biang noodles are a popular dish in Chinese cuisine. The name “biang-biang” is derived from the distinctive sound made while slapping the dough against a flat surface during its preparation. It is also known as “You Po Mian”(油泼面) due to the sound the chef makes while stretching the dough. Biang-biang noodles are wide, flat noodles usually served in a bowl along with a variety of sauces and condiments. The noodles are traditionally made by hand which is why they are so thick and irregular in shape. In recent years, the dish has become popular due to its unique name and flavor.

History of Biang-Biang Noodles

Biang-biang noodles are believed to have originated from the Shaanxi province in China. The dish is said to have been created during the Sui Dynasty (581-618 A.D.), which was a period of great innovation for Chinese cuisine. The noodles are traditionally made and served during festival celebrations, such as Chinese New Year and the Lantern Festival, which symbolizes the start of spring.

Cook Method

Ingredients

The ingredients for biang-biang noodles are simple and easy to find. All you need are: wheat flour, water, oil, and salt. To make the noodles, you will also need a flat surface and a rolling pin.

-1/4 cup vegetable oil 

-2 cloves garlic, minced 

-1/4 cup water

-2 teaspoons soy sauce 

-2 teaspoons vinegar 

-2 teaspoons red chili paste

-1/2 teaspoon salt 

-1/2 teaspoon sugar 

-2 tablespoons sesame oil 

-1/2 cup fresh cilantro 

-14 ounces fresh biang-biang noodles 

Directions 

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.

2. Add the biang-biang noodles and cook according to package directions, about 4 minutes. Drain and set aside.

3. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.

4. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

5. Pour in the water, soy sauce, vinegar, red chili paste, salt, and sugar. Cook for 1 minute, stirring to combine. 

6. Add the biang-biang noodles to the wok and toss to coat with the sauce. Add the sesame oil and cilantro. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring often.

Preparation

To prepare biang-biang noodles, typically a dough is formed by mixing the wheat flour, water and oil. This dough is then kneaded and left to rest for 30 minutes. After resting, the dough is rolled out and cut into long strips 5mm in width. The long strips are then cut into smaller strips approximately 7cm in length.

Next, the strips of dough are placed on a flat surface and slapped with the hands to shape them. The dough will expand and become thinner while maintaining its width and thickness. After shaping, the biang-biang noodles are ready to cook.

Serving Suggestions

Biang-biang noodles can be served with a variety of sauces and accompaniments. The noodles are usually served in a bowl with a sauce, such as soy sauce, sesame oil and vinegar. Other accompaniments to consider are garlic, chillies and spring onions. The noodles can also be served as a part of a stir fry dish or added to a soup.

Nutritional Benefits

Biang-biang noodles are a nutrient-packed dish. The noodles are high in carbohydrates which provide energy, as well as essential minerals such as iron, zinc, magnesium and phosphorus. The wheat flour used to make the noodles is a good source of fiber, protein, and B-vitamins which support the nervous system, digestive system and energy production.

Summary

Biang-biang noodles are a delicious and nutritious dish that originated from the Shaanxi province in China. The noodles are made with simple ingredients, such as wheat flour, water and oil. The preparation includes rolling the dough out, cutting it into strips and then slapping it against a flat surface to shape the noodles. Biang-biang noodles can be served with a variety of sauces and accompaniments, as well as added to a stir fry or soup. Furthermore, they are a nutrient-packed dish, providing fiber, protein and essential minerals and vitamins.