Roasted Oat Noodles (Youmian Kaolaolao)

Roasted Oat Noodles (Youmian Kaolaolao)

　　“The original grain of ‘youmian’ is called ‘youmai,’ also known as ‘oats.’ It is one of the specialty products of Xiyang in Yu County. Not only does it have benefits such as relieving hunger and cold, protecting the liver and kidneys, promoting blood production, and enhancing immunity, but it also helps strengthen the body, improve brain function, clear the eyes, and beautify the skin.

　　‘Roasted Oat Noodles’ is a highly distinctive local delicacy of Yu County. There are three key steps to its preparation: mixing the dough, shaping the rolls, and controlling the heat. The dough must be kneaded with boiling water, slightly cooled, then worked into a smooth ball. While still warm, the dough is rolled into strips, cut into pieces, and placed on a clean stone slab. Using your hands, flatten each piece into thin, even sheets, then use your fingers to lift and fold them into cylindrical shapes. Arrange these cylinders neatly, one next to the other, on a steamer tray like a honeycomb. Steam for 10 minutes until cooked. Be mindful of the heat when steaming—insufficient heat will leave the rolls undercooked, while too much heat will make them soggy and limp, resulting in a loss of texture, flavor, and color.