Clear Beef Noodle Soup

Clear Beef Noodle Soup

　　Lanzhou Clear Beef Noodle Soup. Lanzhou beef noodles are the most famous local delicacy in Lanzhou. The dish originated during the Guangxu period and was first created by an elderly Hui man named Ma Baozi. Over the course of nearly a century, this single bowl of noodles has gained fame across the city of Lanzhou and beyond, renowned for its tender meat, rich broth, and finely crafted noodles. It has made its way to various parts of China. This culinary achievement embodies the wisdom and dedication of Ma Baozi and countless chefs who have specialized in clear beef noodle soup over the years. Today, clear beef noodle soup is cherished not only for its delicious taste but also for its affordability. It can be found everywhere in Lanzhou, as well as across various provinces in northwest China and many other regions nationwide. Lanzhou beef noodles are defined by five key characteristics: one clear (clear broth), two white (white radish), three red (red chili oil), four green (green coriander), and five yellow (yellow, shiny noodles). The noodles come in a variety of thicknesses, including large flat, wide, thin, extra-thin, vermicelli-like, leek leaf, and bridge wheat flakes. The noodles are hand-pulled on the spot and can be prepared in under two minutes. They are then served with a flavorful beef noodle broth, slices of white radish, a drizzle of bright red chili oil, vibrant green garlic sprouts, and coriander – a combination that is simply exceptional. It has become an everyday, budget-friendly meal for the people of Lanzhou. For just about 1.7 to 1.8 yuan, you’re guaranteed a satisfying meal – this is the everyday beef noodle soup in the eyes of the locals.

The biggest secret of Lanzhou beef noodles lies in the broth. Since Ma Baozi made the first bowl of beef noodles at the beginning of the 20th century, the recipe for the broth has been passed down through generations. The so-called "clear broth" is not simply water mixed with salt, but rather a blend of dozens of seasonings with the original beef stock. Perhaps you won’t believe it, but one thing this broth does not contain is star anise. Just like the highest level of martial arts, which is about returning to simplicity, the “clarity” of this broth is incredibly rich and genuine. Perhaps the local environment plays a role too – Lanzhou is located on a river terrace upstream of the Yellow River, and it has the best underground water quality among provincial capital cities and above. Additionally, the beef used in Lanzhou mainly comes from yaks in Gannan and Qinghai, which is why no matter how hard others try, they can’t truly replicate the authentic taste of Lanzhou beef noodles. So, if you want to eat real beef noodles, you have to go to Lanzhou !