Royal Noodles

Royal Noodles

　　Royal Noodles, also known as Jade Noodles or Silt Noodles, are a famous specialty snack from Xunyi. The making process of Royal Noodles is quite complex. First, high-quality wheat flour is kneaded into a dough, which is then repeatedly rinsed and rubbed in a basin until the water becomes cloudy. The cloudy water is filtered and poured into a large container. This process is repeated until all the amylose (starch) in the dough is separated out (what remains is mainly amylopectin, protein, etc., which, when steamed, becomes gluten). Once all the starch has settled, the excess clear water is drained, and the starch water is stirred evenly and poured into a pot. It is then quickly heated and stirred until it forms a solid mass, after which it is removed from the heat. The dough is then kneaded on a cutting board, divided into small pieces, and rolled into strips about 40 cm long and 5 cm wide. These strips are pressed flat by hand, and a fish-scale pattern is imprinted on the surface using a wooden comb. Finally, the noodles are steamed over high heat, cooled after being taken out of the pot, and are then ready to eat.

　　 When eating Royal Noodles, they are first sliced thinly and then served cold with ingredients such as cooked pork (or beef), chopped scallions, cilantro, mashed garlic, mustard oil (or sesame oil). The noodle slices are as white as jade, thin as cicada wings, complemented by colorful garnishes that are both visually appealing and delicious.