Qinzhou Pig's Trotter Noodles

Qinzhou Pig's Trotter Noodles

　　Qinzhou’s most famous local snack, named for its use of the region’s premium fine rice noodles served with tender, flavorful braised pig’s trotters. Spicy, savory, and delicious, these noodles typically cost 5 to 7 yuan per bowl and come in generous portions. They can be found at restaurants and street stalls throughout the city.

　　Qinzhou Pig’s Trotter Noodles – even the gods would crave them. The authentic version of this Qinzhou specialty is made with great care. First, the pig’s trotters are prepared: they are usually roasted at night and then fried at around 3–4 a.m. A large wok is filled with oil, and the trotters are deep-fried until they reach the right texture before being transferred to a pot to braise with seasonings. They’re simmered until the meat absorbs all the rich flavors of the spices, and the resulting braising sauce is incredibly aromatic. Next comes the noodles—you can choose between thick or thin rice noodles. Depending on your preference, wide rice sheets are rolled and sliced into two-finger-wide strips, then soaked in the pig’s trotter sauce to create a delicious dish. Even without the trotters, the noodles in the savory broth are absolutely satisfying on their own.