Shaxian Mixed Noodles

Shaxian Mixed Noodles

　　Shaxian Mixed Noodles are a type of Shaxian snack, usually served together with Shaxian wontons. They are known for their strong aroma, bright color, simple ingredients, and easy cooking method. The flavor is sweet and salty, rich yet not greasy. In a typical Shaxian snack shop, the basic ingredients include: about 500 grams of noodles, 50 grams of peanut butter, some fresh seasonal vegetables, pickled vegetables, salt, monosodium glutamate (MSG), sesame oil, vinegar, and an appropriate amount of mashed garlic.

　　The two star dishes of Shaxian snacks: wontons and mixed noodles. Like a perfect pair, they are jokingly referred to as a couple’s set. The noodles used in mixed noodles place great emphasis on the quality of ingredients—they must be made from high-gluten flour or premium medium-gluten flour, fermented with an appropriate amount of water, a small amount of alkali, and salt. The peanut butter used in Shaxian snacks is a closely guarded secret recipe among locals. First, heat a pan over medium heat, then add an appropriate amount of oil and peanuts, stir-frying until most of the peanuts turn golden brown before removing from heat. Let the peanuts cool, then blend them with sugar and sesame seeds in a food processor until smooth and creamy. With the noodles and peanut butter ready, the rest of the ingredients are commonly found in any kitchen, making the preparation of hand-mixed noodles a breeze.

　　Preparation Method

　　1. Boil the noodles in a pot of hot water until cooked, rinse with cold water, and transfer to a bowl.

　　2. Place the vegetables on top of the noodles. Mix the prepared peanut butter with refined salt, MSG, sesame oil, and mashed garlic, then stir into the noodles. Serve with a bowl of clear soup to enjoy.

　　In Shaxian snack shops, it’s common to hear customers say: “Chef, one wonton and mixed noodle set!” The low price, fragrant yet not greasy taste, refreshing flavor, and easy cooking method of wontons and mixed noodles make them especially popular among the general public.