Dan Dan noodles

Traditional dan dan noodles are a true classic of Chinese cuisine. The star of the dish is a spicy sauce served with the noodles. Made with chili oil, preserved vegetables, Sichuan peppercorn, and sometimes sesame or peanut paste, the sauce bursts with heat and complex flavors. The meat, most commonly minced pork or beef, is also commonly included, but mainly acts as a garnish. In China, the varieties differ only slightly, but worldwide the traditional dan dan noodles have been adjusted to the more gentle western palate and use significantly fewer spices. The dish originated in the Sichuan province, and it is still one of the most common dishes in the area. The name itself comes from the way the noodles were initially offered to the Sichuan citizens and refers to the bamboo pole carried on the shoulders, which was used to transport the dish through the city streets. Today, the dish is usually served in restaurants, but is still equally attractive and retains the original flavors. Whether they are eaten hot or cold, dan dan noodles are usually served in smaller portions, as an appetizer, the main dish, and sometimes even as an accompaniment. Typical garnishes include sliced scallions, chopped peanuts, or sesame seeds.