Spicy, savory, and bursting with bold flavors, Dan Dan Noodles are a classic Sichuan dish featuring crispy minced pork, chewy wheat noodles, and a rich, nutty, and spicy sauce. This street food favorite perfectly balances heat, umami, and a hint of sweetness, making it a must-try for lovers of Sichuan cuisine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Authentic Sichuan Flavor – A perfect combination of chili oil, Sichuan peppercorns, and sesame paste for that signature numbing and spicy taste.
Quick and Easy – Ready in just 25 minutes, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
Rich and Comforting – The creamy, nutty sauce coats the noodles beautifully, while crispy pork adds a delicious texture.
Customizable Spice Level – Adjust the chili oil and Sichuan pepper to suit your taste.
Perfectly Balanced – The mix of salty, spicy, and slightly sweet flavors makes this dish irresistible.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Noodles and Pork:

Fresh wheat noodles or ramen noodles
Ground pork
Vegetable oil
Garlic, minced
Ginger, grated
Sichuan peppercorns, crushed
Soy sauce
Shaoxing wine (optional)
Sugar

For the Sauce:

Sesame paste (or peanut butter)
Soy sauce
Black vinegar
Chili oil (adjust to taste)
Sichuan pepper powder
Sugar
Hot water

For Garnish:

Green onions, sliced
Roasted peanuts, crushed
Blanched bok choy
Extra chili oil (optional)

Directions

Cook the noodles – Prepare noodles according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
Make the sauce – In a bowl, whisk together all sauce ingredients until smooth.
Cook the pork – Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add garlic, ginger, and Sichuan peppercorns, stirring until fragrant.
Brown the meat – Add ground pork and cook until crispy and browned. Stir in soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and sugar, cooking for another minute.
Assemble the dish – Divide the sauce into serving bowls. Add cooked noodles and toss to coat.
Add toppings – Top with crispy pork, green onions, peanuts, and blanched bok choy. Drizzle extra chili oil if desired.
Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Calories: 500 kcal per serving

Variations

Vegetarian Dan Dan Noodles – Replace pork with crumbled tofu or mushrooms for a plant-based version.
Extra Spicy Version – Add more chili oil or a pinch of dried chili flakes.
Nut-Free Option – Use tahini instead of sesame paste or peanut butter.
Milder Flavor – Reduce Sichuan peppercorns and chili oil for a less spicy experience.
Low-Carb Option – Serve over spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftover sauce and pork separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
Freezing: The sauce and pork can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw before reheating.
Reheating: Warm the sauce and pork in a pan over low heat, then toss with freshly cooked noodles.

FAQs

What are Dan Dan Noodles?

Dan Dan Noodles are a Sichuan specialty made with spicy, savory ground pork and a nutty, chili-infused sauce served over wheat noodles.

Can I use other types of noodles?

Yes, traditional wheat noodles work best, but ramen, udon, or even spaghetti can be used in a pinch.

Is this dish very spicy?

It has a moderate heat level, but you can adjust the spice by adding or reducing chili oil and Sichuan pepper.

Can I make this without Sichuan peppercorns?

You can, but they add the signature numbing sensation (mala) typical of Sichuan cuisine.

What’s the best substitute for black vinegar?

Rice vinegar or balsamic vinegar can work as alternatives, but the flavor will be slightly different.

Can I make the sauce in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead and store it in the fridge for up to a week.

How do I blanch bok choy?

Boil water, add bok choy for 30-45 seconds, then drain and rinse with cold water to keep it vibrant and crisp.

What’s the difference between Dan Dan Noodles and regular spicy noodles?

Dan Dan Noodles have a distinctive nutty and spicy sauce with Sichuan peppercorns, giving them a unique mala flavor.

Can I use store-bought chili oil?

Yes, but homemade Sichuan chili oil enhances the flavor and adds an authentic touch.

How do I keep the noodles from sticking?

Rinse the noodles with cold water after cooking and toss them in a bit of oil if not serving immediately.

Conclusion

Authentic Chinese Dan Dan Noodles deliver the bold, spicy, and nutty flavors that define Sichuan cuisine. With crispy pork, chewy noodles, and a creamy, spicy sauce, this dish is both comforting and packed with umami. Try making it at home for an unforgettable noodle experience!

Authentic Chinese Dan Dan Noodles