Step into the vibrant streets of Zhangzhou, Fujian, and you’ll inevitably encounter the alluring aroma of ‘漳州手抓面’ (Zhangzhou Hand-Grabbed Noodles). This beloved local snack isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience, celebrated for its unique eating style – traditionally enjoyed by hand – and its irresistible combination of springy noodles, rich sauces, and an array of savory braised toppings. A true culinary gem of Fujian, it offers a symphony of textures and flavors that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Chinese street food culture. Get ready to dive in and discover why this humble noodle dish holds such a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike!
🥢 Ingredients
- 1 lb (approx. 450g) thin alkaline noodles (or thin egg noodles)
- 4-6 braised eggs, halved or quartered
- 1 block (approx. 200g) braised tofu, sliced
- 1/2 lb (approx. 225g) braised pig intestines, cut into bite-sized pieces (optional, but highly recommended for authenticity)
- 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, crushed
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tbsp spring onions, chopped
- For the Peanut Sauce:
- 3 tbsp creamy peanut butter
- 2-3 tbsp warm water (adjust for desired consistency)
- 1 tbsp light soy sauce
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp sesame oil
- For the Chili Sauce:
- 3 tbsp chili paste (e.g., sweet chili sauce or a spicy garlic chili sauce)
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 1 tsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sugar
- Optional Toppings: Blanched bean sprouts, seaweed strips, braised shiitake mushrooms, various fish balls or meatballs.
🔥 Instructions
- Prepare the Noodles: Cook the thin alkaline noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and rinse briefly with cold water to prevent sticking, then drain again thoroughly. Set aside.
- Prepare Braised Toppings: Ensure all your braised toppings (eggs, tofu, pig intestines, mushrooms, etc.) are warmed through and sliced or cut into appropriate bite-sized pieces.
- Make the Peanut Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, warm water, light soy sauce, sugar, and sesame oil. Whisk vigorously until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and pourable. Add more warm water if needed to reach your desired consistency.
- Make the Chili Sauce: In another small bowl, mix together the chili paste, minced garlic, rice vinegar, and sugar. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
- Assemble the Dish: Divide the cooked noodles evenly among individual serving bowls.
- Add Toppings: Artfully arrange a generous selection of the braised eggs, sliced tofu, braised pig intestines, and any other desired optional toppings over the noodles in each bowl.
- Sauce it Up: Drizzle a generous amount of the prepared peanut sauce over the noodles and toppings. Follow with a drizzle of the chili sauce, adjusting the quantity according to your spice preference.
- Garnish: Sprinkle each bowl with the crushed roasted peanuts, fresh chopped cilantro, and chopped spring onions.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately. The traditional way to eat Zhangzhou Hand-Grabbed Noodles is to mix everything together thoroughly with your hands (or chopsticks) before enjoying, ensuring every strand of noodle is coated in the rich, flavorful sauces and complemented by the various toppings.