Tujia Mung Bean Noodles

Tujia Mung Bean Noodles

　　Mung bean noodles are a traditional dish of the Tujia ethnic minority and have long been revered by locals as a "health-nourishing noodle." These noodles are primarily made from finely processed mung beans. Mung beans are considered a premium food in summer diets due to their high nutritional value. Also known as green beans because of their vibrant color, they have been cultivated in China for over two thousand years. Owing to their rich nutrients and versatile uses, Li Shizhen referred to them as an "excellent ingredient among vegetables." Zhuoshui Mung Bean Noodles is a project protected under Chongqing’s intangible cultural heritage. Currently, there are over 20 workshops making mung bean noodles in Zhuoshui Town, along with more than 10 dedicated noodle shops. Together, these businesses generate over 3 million yuan in annual income for local vendors.

　　Qianjiang Mung Bean Noodles: A Breakfast Not to Be Missed in Qianjiang

　　 Qianjiang, a mysterious region where the Tujia, Miao, and Han peoples converge, boasts cuisine infused with distinctive ethnic flavors and aromatic delights that carry far and wide. The local dishes incorporate the unique elements of the Tujia and Miao cultures, enchanting food lovers with their distinctive taste and leaving visitors reluctant to leave.

　　 Mung bean noodles are one of the most commonly consumed foods among the people of Qianjiang. For centuries, the people here have shared a deep bond with this dish. Mung bean noodles can be found everywhere—in the streets and alleys, at local markets, and in residents' homes across Qianjiang.

　　 The most famous mung bean noodles in Qianjiang come from Zhuoshui Ancient Town in Qianjiang District, known as Zhuoshui Mung Bean Noodles.

　　 Zhuoshui Mung Bean Noodles have a long history, with records dating back to the Song Dynasty. Chen Dasou, a Song Dynasty scholar, listed them as one of the twenty refined vegetarian dishes that possess an otherworldly simplicity. “Stroll through the old streets of the ancient town, watch traditional performances by the Hou River, savor Tujia cuisine, and listen to the sounds of the Apeng River”—these are the four highlights of tourism in Zhuoshui Ancient Town. While exploring the town, visitors can enjoy a bowl of these uniquely traditional, hand-made mung bean noodles, satisfying both their eyes and palate.

　　 The noodles are made by grinding rice and mung beans into a batter, which is then extruded through a funnel to form spiral strands resembling mosquito coils. These strands are cooked in a flat pan and are ready to eat once boiled.

　　 Traditional mung bean noodles are entirely handmade, especially those made using stone mills, which produce a chewier batter compared to machine-ground versions. “A bowl of noodle soup topped with a savory mix of beef, minced meat sauce, beef tripe, or pork intestines fills the air with an irresistible aroma. Once in your mouth, the smooth texture brings pure satisfaction,” said one diner.

　　 Currently, the noodle-making technique of Zhuoshui Ancient Town has been included in the second batch of Chongqing’s municipal intangible cultural heritage protection list.