Zha Zhiang Mian (炸酱面)

(serves 4)

This traditional Beijing noodle dish was first introduced to me by my wonderful foodie friend Lisa when she took Carolyn and I to 'the noodle place' in Chinatown. Somewhat tacky grapevine decorations from the roof, typically rude chinese service, small and cramped but absolutely delicious noodles and somewhat dangerously juicy dumplings (Carolyn - still remember when i totally ruined your jeans??)! 

Totally love this super simple meat sauce with refreshing cucumbers mixed in, almost like a childhood favourite now. One of the places we always go back to when any of the high school trio return ~ come back from London already!

Can't wait to cook for u girls when i come visit!

Anyhow, i was quite excited that i finally got around to trying to make this although i can't say i've quite gotten around to making the hand-made noodles yet, but one step at a time to more authentic Chinese cooking...

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes


Ingredients:

2 cucumbers
500g mince pork (can get 250g lean pork mince, 250g regular to be healthier!)
1 onion
2 cloves garlic
200-300g bean sprouts (optional)
1/2 T soy sauce
1 T dark soy sauce
1 x 200g jar of Sweet Bean Paste/Sauce
2 tsp Chiu Chow Chilli oil
2 tsp Sesame oil
500g Shanghai 'Lei Mien'


Method:
1. Cut the cucumber into quarters length-wise, de-seed and the thinly slice diagonally into thin strips.
2. Finely dice the onion and the garlic.
3. Heat a pan with 1/2 T oil, then add the onion and the garlic and fry on medium heat for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the mince pork, quickly breaking it up into small pieces. Cook for 3-4 minutes until brown then add the soy sauce, dark soy sauce and sweet bean paste.

5. Simmer for 8-10 minutes until the sauce thickens. Add the sesame oil and approximately 2 tsp chilli oil, can add more or less chilli to taste.

6. When the meat is almost done, heat a pot of boiling water and cook the noodles for 3-4 minutes until al dente. Quickly drain and rinse the noodles through with cold water.
7. Serve immediately with the meat sauce and cucumber strips, and a handful of bean sprouts on top!