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Welcome to the world of Lanzhou Beef Hand-Pulled Noodles! This delicious dish is a fantastic part of Chinese cuisine and is especially popular in the northwestern region of China. Originally from the city of Lanzhou in Gansu province, these noodles are not just a meal; they are a part of the culture and history of the area.
Did you know that hand-pulling noodles dates back to ancient times? The art of making these noodles has been passed down through generations, and today, they are a symbol of Chinese culinary skill. People around the world love this dish for its chewy texture and rich flavors, which come from the aromatic beef broth and various spices. If you’re looking for a meal that’s both fun to make and incredibly tasty, you’re in the right place!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 4 cups |
| Water | 1 ½ cups |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Beef brisket | 1 lb |
| Beef bones | 2 lbs |
| Ginger (sliced) | 1 inch |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves |
| Star anise | 2 pieces |
| Ground cumin | 1 tsp |
| Green onions (chopped) | For garnish |
| Chili oil | For serving |
Note: If you have gluten sensitivities, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour mix.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the Dough: In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Gradually add the water and knead until you have a smooth dough. Cover it with a damp cloth and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Broth: In a large pot, add the beef brisket, beef bones, ginger, garlic, star anise, and enough water to cover the meat. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 2 hours until the beef is tender.
- Pull the Noodles: After the dough has rested, divide it into smaller pieces. Roll each piece into a long, thin noodle by stretching and folding repeatedly. This might take some practice, but make sure they are relatively uniform in thickness.
- Cook the Noodles: In a separate pot, bring water to a boil. Add the hand-pulled noodles and cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface. Drain well.
- Assemble the Dish: In a bowl, add the pulled noodles, ladle over the hot beef broth, and top with slices of beef. Garnish with chopped green onions and drizzle with chili oil to taste.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 450 | 22% |
| Protein | 25g | 50% |
| Carbohydrates | 60g | 20% |
| Fat | 10g | 15% |
| Fiber | 2g | 8% |
Tips and Tricks
- Perfecting the Pull: Practice makes perfect! Don’t be discouraged if your first noodles aren’t perfect. Just keep trying!
- Flavor Upgrade: Add soy sauce or sesame oil for an extra depth of flavor in your broth.
- Storage: You can freeze uncooked noodles for later use. Just make sure to separate them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Common Mistake: Avoid overcooking the noodles, as they can become mushy. They should be al dente!
FAQs
What are Lanzhou Beef Hand-Pulled Noodles?
Lanzhou Beef Hand-Pulled Noodles are a traditional Chinese dish made with chewy, handmade noodles served in a flavorful beef broth.
Can I use other types of meat?
Yes! While beef is traditional, you can use chicken, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
How long does it take to make this dish?
Total preparation and cooking time is about 3 hours, but much of this is simply letting the broth simmer.
Is it hard to hand-pull noodles?
It takes some practice, but you can definitely learn! Be patient and have fun with it!
What can I serve with Lanzhou Noodles?
They are delicious on their own, but you can serve them with pickled vegetables or other side dishes!
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover noodles and broth separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the broth and noodles in advance. Just combine them when you’re ready to serve.
What is chili oil?
Chili oil is a spicy cooking oil made from infused chili peppers. It’s used for flavoring and garnishing dishes!
How spicy is this dish?
The spice level can be adjusted to your taste by varying the amount of chili oil you use.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Traditional Lanzhou noodles are made with wheat flour, making them unsuitable for a gluten-free diet. You can try gluten-free flour as an alternative.
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