Lanzhou noodles, also known as Lanzhou lamian, are a type of Chinese noodle dish that originated in Lanzhou, the capital city of Gansu Province in northwest China. This popular dish has gained worldwide recognition for its rich flavors, chewy noodles, and savory beef broth. In this article, we will delve into the history of Lanzhou noodles, explore the ingredients and equipment needed to cook them, and provide a step-by-step guide on how to prepare this delicious dish.
A Brief History of Lanzhou Noodles
Lanzhou noodles have a long history that dates back to the Qing dynasty (1644-1912). The dish is believed to have originated from the Hui people, a Muslim ethnic minority group in China. The Hui people brought their culinary traditions and techniques to Lanzhou, where they adapted to the local ingredients and created a unique noodle dish that combined the flavors of beef, spices, and noodles.
Over time, Lanzhou noodles became a staple dish in Lanzhou and gained popularity throughout China. Today, Lanzhou noodles are enjoyed not only in China but also around the world, with many restaurants and cooks attempting to recreate this iconic dish.
Ingredients and Equipment Needed
To cook authentic Lanzhou noodles, you will need the following ingredients and equipment:
Ingredients:
- 500g beef bones (preferably oxtail or beef neck bones)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, sliced
- 1 tablespoon Sichuan peppercorns
- 1 tablespoon cumin seeds
- 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons vinegar
- 1 tablespoon chili oil
- 200g beef, sliced (preferably ribeye or sirloin)
- 200g Lanzhou noodles (or substitute with thin, chewy noodles)
- Scallions, chopped (optional)
- Sesame seeds, toasted (optional)
Equipment:
- Large pot (at least 3L capacity)
- Wok or large skillet
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Colander or strainer
- Noodle cooker or steamer basket
Preparing the Broth
The broth is the foundation of Lanzhou noodles, and it requires careful preparation to achieve the rich, savory flavors. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to prepare the broth:
Step 1: Blanch the Beef Bones
Rinse the beef bones under cold running water, then blanch them in boiling water for 10-15 minutes. This step helps to remove impurities and excess fat from the bones.
Step 2: Roast the Beef Bones
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Place the blanched beef bones on a baking sheet and roast them for 30 minutes, or until they are nicely browned. This step enhances the flavor and color of the broth.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced onion, minced garlic, and sliced ginger, and sauté until they are softened and fragrant.
Step 4: Add the Spices and Bones
Add the Sichuan peppercorns, cumin seeds, coriander seeds, salt, sugar, soy sauce, vinegar, and chili oil to the pot. Stir well to combine. Then, add the roasted beef bones to the pot and pour in enough water to cover the bones.
Step 5: Simmer the Broth
Bring the broth to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for at least 2 hours, or overnight. The longer you simmer the broth, the richer and more flavorful it will be.
Cooking the Noodles
While the broth is simmering, you can start cooking the noodles. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to cook Lanzhou noodles:
Step 1: Prepare the Noodle Dough
If you’re using fresh Lanzhou noodles, you can skip this step. However, if you’re using dried noodles or want to make your own noodle dough from scratch, you’ll need to prepare the dough. Mix together flour, water, and salt to form a dough, then knead the dough for at least 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Step 2: Roll Out the Noodle Dough
Divide the noodle dough into 4 equal pieces and roll out each piece into a thin sheet, using a pasta machine or a rolling pin.
Step 3: Cut the Noodles
Cut the rolled-out noodle dough into thin strips, about 1/4 inch (6 mm) thick. You can use a sharp knife or a pasta cutter to cut the noodles.
Step 4: Cook the Noodles
Cook the noodles in a large pot of boiling water for 2-3 minutes, or until they are slightly undercooked. Then, drain the noodles and rinse them under cold running water to stop the cooking process.
Assembling the Dish
Now that you have prepared the broth and cooked the noodles, it’s time to assemble the dish. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to assemble Lanzhou noodles:
Step 1: Slice the Beef
Slice the beef into thin strips and cook it in a hot wok or skillet with a little oil until it’s browned and cooked through.
Step 2: Add the Noodles and Broth
Add the cooked noodles to the wok or skillet, followed by the hot broth. Stir well to combine.
Step 3: Add the Toppings
Add the sliced beef, chopped scallions, and toasted sesame seeds (if using) to the noodles. Stir well to combine.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Lanzhou noodles hot, garnished with additional scallions and sesame seeds if desired.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Beef bones | 500g |
| Vegetable oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Onion | 1 |
| Garlic | 2 cloves |
| Ginger | 1 tablespoon |
| Sichuan peppercorns | 1 tablespoon |
| Cumin seeds | 1 tablespoon |
| Coriander seeds | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Sugar | 1 teaspoon |
| Soy sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Vinegar | 2 tablespoons |
| Chili oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Beef | 200g |
| Lanzhou noodles | 200g |
| Scallions | Chopped (optional) |
| Sesame seeds | Toasted (optional) |
In conclusion, cooking Lanzhou noodles requires patience, skill, and attention to detail. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create a delicious and authentic Lanzhou noodle dish that will impress your family and friends. Remember to use high-quality ingredients, to simmer the broth for at least 2 hours, and to cook the noodles al dente. With practice and patience, you can master the art of cooking Lanzhou noodles and enjoy this iconic Chinese dish in the comfort of your own home.
What is Lanzhou Noodle and its origin?
Lanzhou noodle, also known as Lanzhou lamian, is a type of Chinese noodle dish originating from Lanzhou, the capital city of Gansu Province in northwest China. It is a popular dish in China and has gained worldwide recognition for its unique flavor and texture.
The dish is typically made with hand-pulled noodles, topped with a spicy sauce, sliced beef or mutton, and various vegetables. The combination of flavors and textures creates a delicious and satisfying meal that has become a staple in Chinese cuisine.
What are the essential ingredients for Lanzhou Noodles?
The essential ingredients for Lanzhou noodles include hand-pulled noodles, a spicy sauce made from chili oil, garlic, ginger, and Sichuan peppercorns, sliced beef or mutton, and various vegetables such as bean sprouts, scallions, and cilantro. The quality of the ingredients is crucial in creating an authentic and delicious Lanzhou noodle dish.
In addition to the main ingredients, other seasonings and spices such as soy sauce, vinegar, and sesame oil are also used to enhance the flavor of the dish. The combination of these ingredients creates a harmonious balance of flavors and textures that is characteristic of Lanzhou noodles.
How do I make the hand-pulled noodles for Lanzhou Noodles?
Making hand-pulled noodles for Lanzhou noodles requires a combination of flour, water, and salt. The dough is first mixed and kneaded until it becomes smooth and elastic. The dough is then rested for a period of time before it is rolled out and cut into thin strips.
The strips are then pulled and stretched to create the signature long and thin noodles. This process requires skill and practice, but with patience and persistence, anyone can create delicious hand-pulled noodles for Lanzhou noodles.
What is the secret to making a great Lanzhou Noodle sauce?
The secret to making a great Lanzhou noodle sauce lies in the combination of ingredients and the cooking process. The sauce is typically made with chili oil, garlic, ginger, and Sichuan peppercorns, which are cooked together to create a fragrant and spicy sauce.
The key to creating a great sauce is to balance the flavors and textures. The sauce should be spicy but not overpowering, and it should have a depth of flavor that complements the noodles and other ingredients. With practice and experimentation, anyone can create a delicious Lanzhou noodle sauce.
Can I use beef or mutton for Lanzhou Noodles?
Both beef and mutton can be used for Lanzhou noodles, and the choice of meat depends on personal preference. Beef is a more common choice, but mutton is also popular in some regions of China.
Regardless of the choice of meat, it is essential to slice it thinly and cook it quickly to preserve its tenderness and flavor. The meat should be cooked separately from the noodles and sauce, and then combined together to create a harmonious balance of flavors and textures.
How do I assemble and serve Lanzhou Noodles?
Assembling and serving Lanzhou noodles requires attention to detail and a sense of presentation. The noodles are first cooked and then topped with the spicy sauce, sliced meat, and various vegetables.
The dish is typically served in a bowl, and garnished with scallions, cilantro, and sesame seeds. The combination of flavors and textures creates a delicious and satisfying meal that is sure to impress.
Can I customize Lanzhou Noodles to suit my taste?
Yes, Lanzhou noodles can be customized to suit individual tastes and preferences. The dish is highly versatile, and various ingredients can be added or substituted to create a unique flavor profile.
For example, some people may prefer a milder sauce, while others may prefer a spicier sauce. Additionally, various vegetables and meats can be added or substituted to create a customized version of the dish. With experimentation and creativity, anyone can create a delicious and personalized version of Lanzhou noodles.