Hunyuan Liangfen (浑源凉粉) is a traditional cold noodle dish from Shanxi with a history dating back several centuries. Its unique production technique has been included in both the Datong City and Shanxi Province Intangible Cultural Heritage lists. According to local legend, during the Tang Dynasty, Emperor Taizong of Tang, Li Shimin, was traveling to the northern regions. When he grew weary and thirsty near Hengshan, his attendant Xue Rengui quickly brought him a bowl of the secret recipe liangfen made by the Xue family. After tasting it, Li Shimin felt refreshed and invigorated, bringing great joy to the emperor. To show his gratitude, he bestowed the name “Hunyuan Liangfen” on the dish.
Preparation Method
- Ingredients: The main ingredient used to make Hunyuan Liangfen is high-quality potato starch, although variations also use pea flour or cassava starch. The dish is further enhanced with additions like tofu, fava beans (known locally as Hunyuan Soybeans), and other accompaniments.
- Making the Paste: The potato starch is mixed with cold water and stirred to form a smooth paste. Some recipes also include edible alum to improve the texture, although this step can be omitted.
- Boiling: The paste is then poured into a pot and cooked over high heat, using a special stirring tool (often called a “six-bar stick”) to constantly stir the mixture until the liangfen is fully cooked and thickened.
- Cooling: The cooked liangfen is poured into molds and left to cool. Once set, the liangfen takes on a semi-transparent appearance and a smooth, tender texture.
- Cutting and Flavoring: After cooling and setting, the liangfen is cut into thin strips and served with a variety of seasonings, including vinegar, salted water, chili oil, tofu, and lotus beans (or fava beans), ready to enjoy.
Taste and Characteristics
Hunyuan Liangfen is renowned for its unique texture and flavor. The dish is refreshingly smooth, chewy, and has a delightful springiness, almost melting in the mouth. It offers a cool, light taste that is perfect for hot weather. The seasoning is an essential part of the dish, with chili oil, vinegar, and garlic paste combining to create a complex and rich flavor profile. The liangfen is well-loved for its balance—crisp yet not greasy, spicy without being overwhelming, and fragrant with a pure, natural aroma.
