Vegetable Tofu Noodles

Vegetable Tofu Noodles

　　Lueyang in the western part of southern Shaanxi is blessed with beautiful mountains and clear waters, and is home to many talented people. The local diet here is well-balanced and diverse, incorporating the culinary essence and traditional characteristics of Shaanxi, Gansu, and Sichuan provinces. But no matter what you've just tasted, the uniquely delicious Vegetable Tofu Noodles (also known as "Eight Dishes and One Soup," meaning eight small side dishes and one bowl of soup) will always leave you wanting more. Snow-white and jade-like tofu tops golden "noodles" (made from cornmeal and wheat flour, rolled out into six-inch-long strips; in some areas, buckwheat flour is used—great for lowering blood sugar), accompanied by a variety of side dishes that help drive away greasiness and fatigue.

　　Vegetable Tofu Noodles have a refreshing taste that's neither greasy nor oily, but making them is truly a skill. First, boil the soy milk, then mix in pickled vegetable brine to curdle the tofu, and finally add the "noodle strips." That’s only half the battle—the other half lies in the side dishes. Bean sprouts, pickles, brined vegetables, and shredded potatoes can be enjoyed year-round. With the changing seasons, you can also have shredded lettuce, cowpeas, cucumbers, onions, chives, zucchini, celery, shredded cabbage, shredded radish, shredded eggplant, and chopped scallions. These side dishes come in vibrant shades—green, emerald, purple, white, azure, red—all arranged together in a colorful, eye-catching display. When serving the meal, there are three steps: first, scoop the soup; second, lift out the noodles; third, spoon out the tofu. This way, the soup nourishes the noodles, and the tofu garnishes them. While eating the noodles and tofu, you also enjoy the "dish platter." As you savor the delicious Vegetable Tofu Noodles and admire the colorful "dish platter," you'll not only satisfy your appetite and enjoy the pleasure of dining but also fulfill your sensory desires and appreciation for beauty.