Why is Chinese

Noodles

Everyone's Favourite?

The history of Chinese food goes back thousands of years. It is believed that it was brought over by traders who would bring their recipes with them when they travelled through different countries while they were on their way to India.

Many believe that the introduction of Chinese food to India can be traced back to the Han Dynasty (206 BC - 220AD). During this period, the trade between China and India as well as the rest of the world was quite extensive, leading to traders bringing and leaving the recipes of Chinese food with local chefs, taverns, etc in India.

Chinese food has in some way, shape, or form been a part of the Indian palette since then and it doesn't seem like it's going to fall off the map anytime soon.

Uncovering the Secret

The answer is quite simple if you think of it: it's the noodles! Noodles make Chinese food a crowd favourite. Whether it's the silky smoothness of rice noodles in a fragrant bowl of pho or the chewy texture of hand-pulled noodles in a savoury broth, noodles are undeniably the star of Chinese cuisine.

While noodles can be made from about any type of flour — wheat flour, rice flour, cornmeal, or even potato starch — the most common type of noodles is made from wheat flour, water, and salt, and they are just as good as any other noodle in the world.

Types of Chinese Noodles

Noodles come in all shapes and sizes. Each brings its unique character to the table. Some of the popular ones include:

Flat Rice Noodles

Flat rice noodles, with their wide and smooth texture, are a staple in many Asian cuisines. They are best used for stir-fries or soups because their texture helps them cling to other ingredients in the dish without getting soggy. Plus, these noodles add a delightful contrast to other ingredients in the dish.

Egg Noodles

Another popular type of noodle is egg noodles. These come in different thicknesses depending on how long you boil them. While the thicker ones hold up better when pan-fried or steamed over hot oil, the thinner ones are more delicate and will break apart easily if overcooked or undercooked (which happens often!).

Dan Dan Noodles

Originating from Sichuan cuisine, these noodles are served with a spicy and savoury sauce made from chilli oil, Sichuan peppercorns, minced meat, and preserved vegetables. They have a bold and complex flavour profile, with a numbing sensation from the Sichuan peppercorns.

Chow Mein Noodles

Chow mein noodles are a staple in Chinese cuisine, known for their versatility and satisfying crunch. These noodles are made from wheat flour and eggs, giving them a soft yet resilient texture. Chow mein noodles are highly popular in India and can be found everywhere, from street carts to high-end restaurants. These noodles, with their crispy texture and savoury flavour, have captured the hearts (and appetites) of people across India.

Savouring the Chinese Noodles Legacy

As we wrap up our culinary journey through the world of Chinese cuisine, one thing is clear — the popularity of Chinese food knows no bounds. From its ancient roots to its modern-day presence, Chinese food has left an indelible mark on the taste buds and cultural fabric of people all around the world.

Chinese food continues to captivate and delight food enthusiasts everywhere. So, here's to celebrating the rich history, diverse flavours, and enduring legacy of Chinese cuisine for generations to come. Zàijiàn.

Related Recipes:

Ramen Bowl | Black Garlic Chilli Oil Noodle | Instant noodles