Authentic Shaanxi Biang Biang Noodles with Chili Oil: A Taste of Northern China

Biang Biang noodles, also known as hand-pulled noodles, are a beloved dish from Shaanxi province in northern China.

These wide, thick noodles are known for their chewy texture and bold, spicy flavors, often served with a simple yet flavorful chili oil sauce.

Making Biang Biang noodles at home allows you to experience the rich culinary traditions of Shaanxi right in your own kitchen.

This recipe will guide you through making these iconic noodles from scratch, topped with a fragrant, spicy chili oil.

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 2 hours
• Preparation: 1 hour
• Cooking: 1 hour
• Servings: 4 people
• Difficulty: Medium

Ingredients

For the Noodles:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

For the Chili Oil Sauce:

• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons Sichuan peppercorns
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 green onions, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup ground chili flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Chinese black vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For Toppings (optional):

• Sliced beef or pork, cooked
• Bok choy or spinach, blanched
• Roasted peanuts, crushed
• Fresh cilantro, chopped

Steps

Making Biang Biang noodles involves preparing the dough, forming the noodles, making the chili oil, and assembling the dish.

1. Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and water. Mix until a rough dough forms.
2. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
3. Coat the dough with vegetable oil, cover it with plastic wrap or a damp cloth, and let it rest for at least 1 hour. This resting time is crucial for developing the dough’s elasticity.

2. Shape and Cook the Noodles

1. After the dough has rested, divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball.
2. Flatten each dough ball into a thick oval shape, about 1/4 inch thick.
3. Lightly oil each oval and cover them with a cloth to rest for another 15 minutes.
4. To form the noodles, take one oval and stretch it gently with your hands, pulling it into a long, wide ribbon. You can slap the noodle against the counter as you stretch it to help achieve the desired width and texture.
5. Tear the center of the noodle lengthwise, creating two connected strands (like a belt).
6. Repeat with the remaining dough pieces.
7. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook the noodles in batches for about 2-3 minutes, until they float and are cooked through.
8. Drain the noodles and set them aside.

3. Make the Chili Oil Sauce

1. In a small saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat until it begins to shimmer.
2. Add the Sichuan peppercorns and fry them until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn them.
3. Remove the peppercorns from the oil and discard them.
4. Add the minced garlic and chopped green onions to the hot oil, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Pour the hot oil over the ground chili flakes in a heatproof bowl, stirring to combine.
6. Stir in the soy sauce, Chinese black vinegar, sugar, sesame oil, and salt until well combined.

4. Assemble the Dish

1. Divide the cooked noodles among serving bowls.
2. Pour the chili oil sauce over the noodles, making sure each bowl gets a good amount of the flavorful oil and seasonings.
3. Top the noodles with your choice of toppings, such as sliced cooked beef or pork, blanched bok choy, roasted peanuts, and fresh cilantro.
4. Serve the noodles hot, mixing the noodles with the sauce and toppings before eating.

Nutritional Benefits

Biang Biang noodles with chili oil offer several nutritional benefits:

• Carbohydrates: The homemade noodles provide a good source of energy through complex carbohydrates.
• Protein: Adding meat or tofu as a topping increases the protein content, essential for muscle repair and growth.
• Healthy Fats: The chili oil, especially when made with sesame oil, adds healthy fats to the dish.
• Vitamins and minerals: The addition of vegetables like bok choy or spinach contributes vitamins A and C, as well as fiber.

Possible Additions or Upgrades

Enhance your Biang Biang noodles with these ideas:

• Add blanched vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or carrots for added nutrition and color.
• Top with a fried egg for extra richness and protein.
• Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for a nutty crunch.
• Drizzle with extra soy sauce or black vinegar for a more intense flavor.
• Mix in some freshly chopped chilis or chili paste for an extra kick of heat.

Questions & Answers

Can I make the noodles ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the noodles ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them by briefly dipping them in boiling water before serving.

What if I don’t have Sichuan peppercorns?
Sichuan peppercorns are essential for the authentic flavor, but if you can’t find them, you can substitute with a small amount of black peppercorns and star anise for a different but still flavorful result.

How do I adjust the spice level?
You can adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer chili flakes or by using a milder variety of chili.

Can I freeze the noodles?
While the dough can be frozen, the cooked noodles are best enjoyed fresh. If you freeze the dough, thaw it in the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature before rolling and cooking.

What pairs well with Biang Biang noodles?
These noodles pair well with light sides like cucumber salad, pickled vegetables, or a simple broth-based soup.

How do I store leftover chili oil?
Store any leftover chili oil in a jar in the refrigerator for up to a month. It can be used as a condiment for other dishes as well.

Can I use store-bought noodles?
While homemade noodles are traditional, you can use store-bought wide, flat noodles as a shortcut.

What is the best way to reheat these noodles?
Reheat the noodles by briefly dipping them in boiling water or microwaving them with a little water to keep them from drying out.

Can I make a vegetarian version?
Yes, simply omit the meat and use tofu or additional vegetables as toppings.

Is there a gluten-free option?
You can try making the noodles with a gluten-free flour blend, though the texture will be different. Alternatively, use gluten-free rice noodles as a base.

Final Note: Biang Biang noodles with chili oil are a bold, flavorful dish that brings the authentic taste of Shaanxi cuisine into your home.

The combination of chewy noodles, spicy chili oil, and customizable toppings makes this dish a true comfort food.

If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to see your creations—share your Biang Biang noodle experience on social media and inspire others to explore this delicious Chinese classic!