Short Description

Dan Dan Noodles are a fiery, flavorful Sichuan classic with spicy chili oil, savory pork, and a creamy sesame or peanut sauce, all tossed with chewy wheat noodles.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish delivers bold and balanced flavors—spicy, nutty, tangy, and sweet—with minimal effort. It’s the perfect weeknight meal for lovers of heat and depth.

Ingredients

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

Wheat or ramen noodles
Ground pork
Garlic, minced
Ginger, grated
Green onions, chopped
Soy sauce
Chinese black vinegar
Sesame paste or peanut butter
Chili oil
Sugar
Sichuan peppercorns, crushed
Chicken broth or water
Vegetable oil

Directions

Prepare noodles and set aside.
Sauté garlic, ginger, and pork until browned. Season with soy sauce, sugar, peppercorns.
In a bowl, mix sesame paste, chili oil, vinegar, and broth.
Combine sauce with noodles and pork mixture.
Garnish with green onions and extra chili oil as desired.
Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Serves 4. Prep: 10 min. Cook: 15 min. Total: 25 min.

Variations

Swap pork for ground beef or turkey
Use peanut butter if sesame paste isn’t available
Adjust spice level with more or less chili oil
Add vegetables like bok choy or spinach

Storage/Reheating

Store in an airtight container (refrigerate for 2–3 days). Reheat gently on stove, adding broth to restore sauce. Avoid microwaving.

FAQs

What does “dan dan” mean?

It refers to a carry pole once used by street vendors.

Can I omit pork?

Yes—use tofu or omit meat for a vegetarian version.

Can I use peanut butter?

Yes, smooth peanut butter works as a substitute for sesame paste.

How to reduce spice level?

Use less chili oil or remove peppercorns.

Are noodles essential?

Yes, their chewy texture is integral but use any wheat noodles.

Can it be made vegan?

Yes—use veggie broth and omit meat.

How many calories does it have?

Approximately 500–600 kcal per serving, depending on ingredients.

Can I prep ahead?

Yes—cook pork and sauce ahead. Assemble before serving.

What side dishes complement it?

Try steamed bok choy, cucumber salad, or simple stir-fried greens.

Best chili oil?

Use fragrant Sichuan chili oil with toasted aromatics.

Conclusion

Dan Dan Noodles deliver a powerful flavor punch that’s both comforting and complex. With layers of spice, richness, and texture, this quick recipe is a perfect introduction to Sichuan-style cooking.

Dan Dan Noodles

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Dan Dan Noodles are a fiery, flavorful Sichuan classic with spicy chili oil, savory pork, and a creamy sesame or peanut sauce, all tossed with chewy wheat noodles.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 10 min
Cook Time: 15 min
Total Time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Stir-fry
Cuisine: Chinese
Diet: Halal

Instructions

Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Heat vegetable oil in a pan. Sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant.
Add ground pork and cook until browned.
Stir in soy sauce, sugar, and crushed Sichuan peppercorns. Cook for 2 minutes.
In a separate bowl, mix sesame paste (or peanut butter), chili oil, vinegar, and chicken broth until smooth.
Combine sauce with cooked noodles and pork mixture. Toss to coat evenly.
Garnish with chopped green onions and extra chili oil as desired.
Serve immediately.