The Super Grandma of Matsu: An 84-Year-Old in Beigan Makes 30 Pounds of Fish Noodles Daily Using 12 Traditional Steps

While making the fish noodles, Grandma Li Huojin chats cheerfully with visitors in the Fuzhou dialect with a Minnan accent. She says the fish noodles are made from eel and wheat starch sheets, and can be served as soup noodles, stir-fried noodles, or even deep-fried as a snack. Grandma mentioned that the recently developed deep-fried fish noodles were inspired by her daughter’s suggestion. Once fried, the noodles become crispy, offering a taste and aroma similar to shrimp crackers and shrimp chips, and they pair well with a sprinkle of plum powder to cut through the greasiness, resulting in a delicious and savory snack.

▲ The deep-fried fish noodles have a crispy texture and a flavor reminiscent of shrimp chips. Adding plum powder not only enhances the taste but also helps reduce the greasy feeling.

Grandma’s fish noodle shop is divided into two areas: one for dining and one for making the noodles. To try the fish noodle dishes, enter from the opposite side of the Beigan Library. Netizens say that although Grandma’s fish noodles are lighter in flavor compared to others, they are rich in the umami of fresh fish and incredibly tasty. Many people also buy the noodles to take home or have them delivered for self-preparation, which is very convenient. Next time you’re in Beigan, be sure to try Matsu’s most authentic fish noodle dish, chat with Grandma, and watch how the fish noodles are made.

▲%The dining area of Grandma’s Fish Noodles is located in Lingtan Village, Beigan Township, and though the noodles may not look oily, you can still see the care and effort Grandma puts into her craft.