Dan Dan Noodles
Spicy noodles with minced pork and preserved vegetables
Spice Level
Price Range
$3-6 USD
Category
Street Food
About Dan Dan Noodles
Dan Dan Noodles (Dan Dan Mian) is a street food classic consisting of a spicy sauce containing preserved vegetables, chili oil, Sichuan pepper, minced pork, and scallions served over noodles. Originally sold by street vendors who carried the noodles on a pole (dan dan) over their shoulder.
Food Gallery
See what Dan Dan Noodles really looks like
History & Background
Originated in the late Qing Dynasty when vendors sold noodles from poles (dan dan) carried over their shoulders. The name literally means 'pole-carried noodles'.
Key Ingredients
The Honest Review
No fluff. No hype. What you actually need to know.
“This is Sichuan street food at its best - cheap, flavorful, and satisfying. The sauce is nutty from sesame, savory from preserved vegetables, and spicy from chili oil. It is a bowl of comfort food with a kick. Quality varies wildly between vendors though - some are amazing, some are just okay.”
Tips for Foreigners
- Look for vendors with a line of locals - that is the best quality indicator
- The noodles should be eaten quickly before they get soggy
- Mix thoroughly before eating - the sauce settles at the bottom
- Street versions are often better than restaurant versions
What to Actually Expect
- Chewy noodles coated in a rich, oily sauce
- A mix of spicy, savory, and nutty flavors
- Small portion - it is a snack, not a full meal for most Western appetites
- Varies greatly in quality depending on the vendor
What to Avoid
- Do not buy from vendors with no customers - there is a reason
- Do not expect large portions - this is street snack food
- Do not eat it if the noodles look pre-cooked and sitting out
- Do not skip the preserved vegetables - they add essential flavor
Where to Try Dan Dan Noodles
- Street vendors near Chunxi Road
- Jinli Street
- Kuanzhai Alley
- Local noodle shops
Quick Facts
- Category
- Street Food
- Spice Level
- Hot
- Price Range
- $3-6 USD
- Must Try
- Absolutely yes!
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