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Flavorful Dan Dan Noodles Recipe with Spicy Chili Crisp and Pork Made Easy

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A quick and easy Dan Dan noodles recipe featuring tender ground pork, chewy noodles, and a spicy, crunchy chili crisp sauce that delivers bold, savory flavors perfect for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz ground pork (225 g)
  • 8 oz Dan Dan noodles (225 g) – fresh or dried Chinese wheat noodles, or spaghetti as a substitute
  • 23 tbsp spicy chili crisp
  • 2 tbsp sesame paste (tahini can substitute)
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tbsp chili oil
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • 2 tbsp crushed peanuts (optional)
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth or water (60 ml)
  • 1 tsp sugar

Instructions

  1. Cook the noodles: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add 8 oz (225 g) of noodles and cook according to package instructions, usually 3-5 minutes for fresh noodles or 8-10 minutes for dried. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Drain and rinse briefly under cold water to stop cooking and remove excess starch. Set aside.
  2. Prepare the sauce: In a medium bowl, combine 2 tbsp sesame paste, 3 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp chili oil, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tsp sugar, and 2-3 tbsp spicy chili crisp. Whisk until smooth and set aside. Adjust chili crisp amount to taste.
  3. Cook the pork: Heat a skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a splash of oil, then 8 oz (225 g) ground pork. Break it up with a spatula. When the pork starts to brown (about 4-5 minutes), add minced garlic and ginger. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant and fully cooked. Pour in 1/4 cup (60 ml) chicken broth or water to keep the pork moist and help it soak up flavors. Stir and cook until liquid reduces slightly.
  4. Combine noodles and sauce: Add the cooked noodles directly into the skillet with the pork. Pour the sauce over and toss gently but thoroughly to coat every noodle strand. This should take about 2 minutes; noodles will absorb the sauce and become glossy.
  5. Plate and garnish: Divide noodles into serving bowls. Top with sliced green onions and crushed peanuts if using. For extra heat, spoon a little more chili crisp on top. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

For gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce and gluten-free noodles. Vegetarian version: replace pork with tofu or mushrooms and use vegetarian chili crisp and vegetable broth. Add more chicken broth or water if sauce is too thick. Taste and adjust chili crisp for preferred heat level. Avoid microwaving leftovers to prevent drying out; reheat gently in skillet with splash of water or broth.

Nutrition

Keywords: Dan Dan noodles, spicy chili crisp, ground pork, Asian noodles, quick dinner, easy recipe, sesame paste, weeknight meal