Shuangfeng Lamb Noodles

Shuangfeng Lamb Noodles

　　Shuangfeng Lamb Noodles (also known as: Shuangfeng Fat Lamb Big Noodles) is one of the distinctive culinary offerings in Taicang’s food culture, renowned for being crispy, rich, aromatic, and hearty. Legend has it that over a hundred years ago, a master surnamed Meng opened a noodle shop at the western end of the ancient town of Shuangfeng, which boasts a history of more than 1,600 years. Thanks to his expertise in cooking meat, brewing broth, and crafting noodles, “Shuangfeng Meng Family Lamb Noodles” became widely known far and wide, eventually establishing itself as a local winter delicacy.

　　　What sets Shuangfeng Lamb Noodles apart from many other lamb noodle varieties is a set of closely guarded techniques: First is the selection of goat breeds—the shop emphasizes choosing “Taicang goats,” known for their large size, thin skin, tender meat, especially preferring castrated males and young adult females. Second, great care is taken in the slaughtering process, with repeated washing required. Third, beneath the pot, a bundle of new straw cores stripped of husks is placed on a plate to prevent scorching; the sides of the pot are packed with white radishes to neutralize the gamey smell. Fourth, after slaughter, the meat is sorted and layered in the pot—tougher cuts go to the bottom, while more tender ones are placed on top—followed by seasonings and slow simmering over low heat. The broth for the noodles is made from the original lamb-cooking stock, brewed until it is thick yet clear, rich yet not greasy before being used. The noodles themselves are handmade, commonly referred to as “jump noodles,” known for being fine, soft, smooth, and resilient—they cook quickly in boiling water, remain firm even when cooked for a long time, and offer an exceptional mouthfeel. 　　

　　The Taicang goats used in Shuangfeng Lamb Noodles graze freely on wild grass, unlike pigs, chickens, ducks, and others raised on hormone-containing feed, hence they are hailed as a “green food.” Moreover, while enjoying Shuangfeng Lamb Noodles, diners can also appreciate and experience the unique essence of “goat culture,” making it highly favored by customers.