Teresa's Recipes
Noodles with Soybean Paste (Zha Jiang Mian)
Delight in the rich flavors of Zha Jiang Mian, a beloved Chinese dish that translates to 'Fried Sauce Noodles'. Originating from the northern regions of China, this dish has been a staple for generations, often enjoyed by families and street vendors alike. The hearty soybean paste sauce, made from fermented soybeans, infuses the noodles with a deep umami flavor, while the freshness of crisp cucumbers and carrots provides a delightful contrast. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a quick weeknight meal, Zha Jiang Mian is sure to satisfy your cravings for authentic Chinese cuisine.
Ingredients
- 8 oz (preferably Chinese wheat noodles) Noodles
- 1/2 lb Ground pork
- 3 tablespoons Fermented soybean paste
- 2 tablespoons Soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon Sugar
- 3 cloves, minced Garlic
- 3, chopped (plus more for garnish) Green onions
- 1, julienned Carrot
- 1, julienned Cucumber
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 4
- Dish Type: Main Course
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 20g
- Carbs: 50g
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Sugar: 2g
Instructions
- Cook the noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet or pan, heat over medium heat. Add the ground pork and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and chopped green onions, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the fermented soybean paste, soy sauce, and sugar to the pan. Mix well, ensuring the pork is fully coated in the sauce.
- Allow the sauce to simmer for approximately 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and rich in flavor.
- To serve, divide the cooked noodles among four bowls. Generously top each bowl with the soybean paste sauce.
- Garnish with julienned cucumber and carrot for a refreshing crunch. Add extra chopped green onions if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy the delightful contrast of savory flavors with the freshness of the vegetables.
Tips
- For a vegetarian version, substitute ground pork with minced mushrooms or tofu.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or bean sprouts for added texture and flavor.
- Experiment with different types of noodles, such as rice noodles or egg noodles, to suit your preference.