Chinese New Year 2022 begins Tuesday, February 1st - and just in case you were wondering, it’s the year of the TIGER….way sexier than my own PIG ZODIAC ANIMAL. Traditional Chinese noodles are thought to bring good luck in the new year; our quick, simple recipe calls for long lo mein noodles, tossed with a quick peanut based sauce and topped with just a few greens and pantry items.
One final recommendation - the good luck this dish brings is contingent on the cook and consumer NOT breaking those long noodles during preparation and eating - so be careful!
DAN DAN NOODLES
Serves: 4 to 6 | Time: 30 Minutes
INGREDIENTS
1⁄3 cup sesame oil
1⁄2 cup raw peanuts (substitute sunflower seeds)
3 small garlic cloves, halved
2 inch slice fresh ginger, chopped
3 tablespoons soy sauce
3 tablespoons water
2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar
1 tablespoon sri racha chile sauce
1 tablespoon sugar
2 teaspoons sesame oil
Kosher salt
12 oz dried lo mein noodles
Garnish as any combination of the following: Chopped Peanuts, Chopped Green Onions, Sesame Seeds, and Cilantro
TECHNIQUE
In a large skillet, heat the peanut oil. Add peanuts and fry over medium heat until golden, about 5 or 6 minutes; allow to cool slightly.
Transfer the peanuts and oil to a food processor. Add the garlic and ginger and process until combined. Add the soy sauce, water, rice vinegar, Sriracha, sugar and sesame oil and process until smooth. Season with salt.
In a pot of boiling salted water, cook the noodles until al dente. Toss noodles with the dressing and mound in serving bowls; top with your favorite combination of all or some of the raw vegetables then serve.