Cenxi Rice Noodles

Cenxi Rice Noodles

　　The first day of the fifth lunar month every year is the traditional folk festival of Cenxi — the Rice Noodle Festival.

Cenxi rice noodles have a long history. Legend has it that they originated during the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods. When the Dragon Mother, who was born in Dazhu Village, Cenxi, released the five young dragons she had raised back into the sea, the local villagers processed premium rice into snow-white rice noodles and threw them into the river along the shore for the dragons to enjoy this delicacy. This tradition has been passed down through generations, eventually becoming a custom. On the first day of the fifth lunar month (i.e., the first day of the fifth month in the lunar calendar), every household makes and eats rice noodles. Over time, the first day of the fifth lunar month has evolved into the Cenxi Rice Noodle Festival.

The production of Cenxi rice noodles is very particular, with the key lying in its traditional craftsmanship and water quality. First, the water from the Cen Mountain stream provides excellent quality for making rice noodles. The reason why rice noodles from Zhangmu Street taste so good is largely due to the superior water from the Big Well. Second is the selection of rice — late-season rice is preferred, as rice from early-season harvests would significantly compromise the quality of the noodles. Third is the craftsmanship, known as the “three grinds and one broth” technique, which is the secret to success. Vendors get up in the middle of the night, and dozens of pounds of soaked rice must go through coarse grinding, fine grinding, and precision grinding before being steamed into noodles. This process ensures that the steamed noodles are so strong they won’t break even if twisted by hand. Premium rice noodles also require top-notch seasonings — another trade secret. The seasonings are made from pork bone broth combined with spices and a unique blend of secret ingredients. When mixed with the noodles, they create a dish so delicious you’ll be left craving more.

Cenxi locals usually eat rice noodles for breakfast, and when paired with roast duck or boiled dog meat, they become an absolutely delicious meal.