Zha Jiang Mian is a popular Chinese noodle dish featuring a savory meat sauce made with ground pork and fermented soybean paste. This authentic recipe captures the essence of Beijing-style Zha Jiang Mian, making it a perfect choice for a comforting meal.
In this easy Asian noodle dinner, you’ll learn how to make Zha Jiang Mian with simple ingredients, creating a delicious bowl of fermented soybean paste noodles that can be enjoyed any night of the week.
Authentic Chinese Noodle Dish
Zha Jiang Mian is a beloved dish that showcases the rich culinary traditions of Beijing. This savory noodle bowl features thick Chinese noodles topped with a flavorful ground pork sauce, making it a satisfying meal for any occasion.
The essence of this Beijing-style Zha Jiang Mian lies in its simplicity and depth of flavor. The combination of ground pork and fermented soybean paste creates a robust sauce that perfectly complements the noodles. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal, this dish delivers on all fronts.
Ingredients That Shine
To prepare this delightful dish, you’ll need a few key ingredients that come together to create a harmonious blend of flavors. The main components include Chinese wheat noodles or spaghetti, which serve as the base for the dish.
Ground pork is essential for the meat sauce, providing a rich and savory element. Fermented soybean paste adds a unique depth, while garlic and onion contribute aromatic notes. Fresh cucumber strips and green onions not only enhance the presentation but also add a refreshing crunch to each bite.
Cooking Process
Making Zha Jiang Mian is straightforward and can be accomplished in about 30 minutes. Start by boiling the noodles until they reach the desired tenderness, then set them aside.
In a skillet, heat vegetable oil and sauté minced garlic and chopped onion until fragrant. Next, add the ground pork, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once browned, stir in the fermented soybean paste and soy sauce, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Serving Suggestions
To serve, toss the cooked noodles in the skillet with the savory meat sauce until well coated. Divide the noodles into bowls and top with julienned cucumber and chopped green onions for a pop of color and freshness.
A drizzle of sesame oil adds a glossy finish, enhancing the visual appeal and flavor profile of the dish. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a small bowl of chili oil on the side allows for customization with each bite.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This ground pork noodle recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. It can be enjoyed as a hearty main course or as part of a larger meal. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a favorite among many.
Whether you’re familiar with Chinese cuisine or trying it for the first time, this easy Asian noodle dinner is sure to impress. With its authentic taste and straightforward preparation, Zha Jiang Mian is a dish that everyone can appreciate.
Nutrition and Serving Size
This recipe yields four generous bowls, making it perfect for sharing. Each serving contains approximately 450 calories, with a balanced mix of protein, carbohydrates, and fats.
With 25 grams of protein per serving, this dish provides a satisfying meal that will keep you energized. The combination of flavors and nutrition makes Zha Jiang Mian a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire.
Authentic Chinese Noodle Dish
This Zha Jiang Mian recipe showcases Chinese noodles topped with a rich meat sauce, combining ground pork and savory flavors for a satisfying meal. The dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare and serves 4 people, making it an ideal option for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 400g Chinese wheat noodles or spaghetti
- 200g ground pork
- 2 tablespoons fermented soybean paste (Doubanjiang)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cucumber, julienned
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Sesame oil for drizzling (optional)
- Chili oil for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Noodles: Boil a pot of water and cook the Chinese wheat noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant.
- Cook the Pork: Add the ground pork to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and cooked through.
- Add the Sauces: Stir in the fermented soybean paste and soy sauce, mixing well. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce is heated through.
- Combine: Toss the cooked noodles in the skillet with the meat sauce until well coated.
- Serve: Divide the noodles into bowls, top with julienned cucumber and chopped green onions. Drizzle with sesame oil and chili oil if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 bowls
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
