Eight-Immortals Noodles

Eight-Immortals Noodles

　　The Eight-Immortals Noodles are said to be one of the recipes from the Qing imperial court. They are named for their use of more than eight diverse ingredients — mountain delicacies, seafood, and seasonal fresh items — all with distinct yet complementary flavors, reminiscent of the “Eight Immortals crossing the sea, each demonstrating their unique powers.” The dish is beloved for its delicious taste and tender yet smooth texture.

　　Nanning’s Eight-Immortals Noodles are favored for their delicious flavor and tender, smooth texture. Legend has it that the recipe follows a Qing imperial menu, incorporating over eight seasonings such as mountain delicacies, seafood, and seasonal fresh ingredients. These elements work in harmony to bring out the best in the rice noodles — just as the “Eight Immortals cross the sea, each showing their special abilities.” The dish earns praise for its savory taste and smooth, resilient noodles. The preparation involves steaming rice paste, slicing it into strips, and then tossing it with prepared char siu (barbecued pork), minced meat, chopped scallions, fried peanuts, sauce, and sesame oil before serving.

　　Characteristics:

　　Fragrant, sour, crispy, sweet, and salty in perfect balance — delicious without being greasy.

　　Preparation Method:

　　1. Choose fresh rice noodles with a good chewy texture. Before cooking, pour a large bowl of pork bone broth into a hot wok.

　　2. Once the broth comes to a boil, add two or three pieces each of fish dumplings, sliced meat, cooked quail eggs, mushrooms, daylily buds, squid, shredded chicken, lean pork slices, fish slices, and fresh tender vegetables. Boil over high heat for a short while, then add 200 grams of rice noodles.

　　3. When the soup in the wok boils again, add a little chopped scallion, sesame oil, salt, and MSG to season, then serve in a bowl.