Teresa's Recipes
Zha Jiang Mian (Fried Sauce Noodles)
Zha Jiang Mian, or 'Fried Sauce Noodles,' is a cherished comfort food hailing from northern China. This dish features hearty ground pork cooked in a rich and savory fermented soybean paste, served over thick, chewy wheat noodles. With the refreshing crunch of julienned cucumber and the vibrant green onions, every mouthful offers a delightful contrast of flavors and textures. Historically enjoyed by locals in bustling Beijing as a quick yet satisfying meal, Zha Jiang Mian transports you to the lively streets filled with enticing aromas. Dive into a bowl and experience a taste of tradition that has been cherished for generations.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces Wheat noodles
- 1 pound Ground pork
- 4 tablespoons Fermented soybean paste
- 2 tablespoons Soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Sugar
- 1 tablespoon Cornstarch
- 1/4 cup Water
- 3 cloves, minced Garlic
- 1, julienned Cucumber
- 3, chopped Green onions
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 4
- Dish Type: Main Course
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 25g
- Carbs: 40g
- Protein: 20g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Sugar: 5g
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Drain the noodles and divide them evenly among four bowls.
- Top each bowl of noodles with a generous portion of the pork mixture, allowing the sauce to coat the noodles.
- Garnish with julienned cucumber and chopped green onions for a refreshing crunch.
- Serve hot, and enjoy your homemade Zha Jiang Mian!
Tips
- For a spicier kick, add a tablespoon of chili paste or fresh chopped chili to the sauce.
- Feel free to substitute ground pork with ground chicken or turkey for a lighter version.
- Add additional vegetables such as shredded carrots or bean sprouts for extra texture and nutrition.