Part 1: Dan Dan Noodles – The Chili Oil
Oil, star anise, cinnamon stick, and Sichuan peppercorns should all be added to a small pot. Gradually raise the temperature to 325 degrees Fahrenheit over medium-low heat, then turn off the heat. After 6-7 minutes, use a slotted spoon to remove the peppercorns, cinnamon stick, and star anise.
Crushed red pepper flakes should be added and steeped in the heated oil. It should start smelling fragrant, almost like popcorn. Allow the oil to cool. Although this yields more chili oil than you’ll use, you’ll be happy to have it on hand for other recipes. Store in a glass jar and keep refrigerated.
Advice: Since the crushed red pepper flakes are fairly hot, if you prefer a tastier chili oil, purchase whole dried red chilies from any Asian market, remove the seeds, and then pulse them in a food processor to make the flakes. If you would like to make more chili oil to have on hand, you can also see Kaitlin’s post on how to do so!
My own interpretation of dan dan noodles
When I cook daan daan noodles at home, I follow a method that is 80% accurate to the original version from Sichuan. Pickled mustard greens, homemade chili oil, Sichuan peppercorns, and fried pork all contribute to the dish’s intensely umami, fiery, and numbing flavor. However, I also add some sesame paste to the sauce to make it creamier and more palatable for people who like milder cuisine.
Sui Mi Ya Cai – or preserved mustard green
In China, Sui Mi Ya Cai (梎汳芽菜) is an essential component for any dish called “dan dan noodles.” It is a Sichuan-native variety of cardamine bean sprout. It is dried, flavored with sugar and spices, and fermented. The end product is a crunchy, dark brown pickle with a unique flavor that combines earthy umami with savory, salty, and sweet flavors.
It can be tricky to find Sui Mi Ya Cai, since it’s a specialty ingredient, even in China. You can usually find it in the un-refrigerated section of the Asian supermarket with the pickles. If you do not live near an Asian market you can also purchase it on Amazon.
NOTE: You can certainly make a delectable bowl of dan dan noodles without using this ingredient.
