Zha Jiang Mian (Fried Sauce Noodles)

Ingredients

• Wheat noodles (12 ounces)
• Ground pork (1 pound)
• Fermented soybean paste (4 tablespoons)
• Soy sauce (2 tablespoons)
• Sugar (1 tablespoon)
• Cornstarch (1 tablespoon)
• Water (1/4 cup)
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
• Cucumber (1, julienned)
• Green onions (3, chopped)

Instructions

1. In a large pan, heat over medium heat and add the ground pork. Cook until browned, stirring frequently to break up the meat, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Once the pork is browned, add the fermented soybean paste, soy sauce, sugar, cornstarch mixed with water, and minced garlic. Stir well to combine and ensure the pork is evenly coated.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes until the sauce thickens, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. While the sauce is simmering, bring a separate pot of water to a boil. Add the wheat noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 5-7 minutes.
5. Drain the noodles and divide them evenly among four bowls.
6. Top each bowl of noodles with a generous portion of the pork mixture, allowing the sauce to coat the noodles.
7. Garnish with julienned cucumber and chopped green onions for a refreshing crunch.
8. Serve hot, and enjoy your homemade Zha Jiang Mian!