Strands of Bliss - Recipe #1: Zha Jiang Mian

ground pork

🥗Healthier: ground turkey

💰Cheaper: ground beef

Ground turkey reduces fat content while still providing protein.

soy sauce

🥗Healthier: low-sodium soy sauce

💰Cheaper: tamari

Low-sodium soy sauce reduces sodium intake without sacrificing flavor.

fermented soybean paste

🥗Healthier: miso paste

💰Cheaper: soy sauce

Miso paste offers a similar umami flavor with fewer calories.

sesame oil

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Olive oil is healthier while canola oil is more budget-friendly.

Cook wheat noodles in boiling water until al dente, about 6-8 minutes.

Drain noodles and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.

In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat until shimmering.

Add ground pork and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.

Stir in minced garlic and ginger; cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Add soy sauce, fermented soybean paste, sugar, and water; mix well.

Simmer sauce for 5-10 minutes until slightly thickened.

Season with black pepper and salt to taste.

In a serving bowl, place cooked noodles and top with sauce.

Garnish with sliced cucumber, shredded carrot, and chopped scallions.

Drizzle with sesame oil before serving.

Toss everything together before eating.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level:

Allergens