Putian Braised Noodles (莆田卤面, Putian Lu Mian), a traditional delicacy from Putian, Fujian, is beloved for its unique flavor and rich nutritional value. It has long been a staple dish for welcoming guests and relatives in the region. The dish’s history can be traced back to before the Han Dynasty, when a similar dish called “Tang Bing” (flatbread soup) existed. With advancements in noodle-making techniques, by the Northern Wei period, dough was rolled thin using tools like boards and knives and then cut into fine strips, marking the early form of noodles. By the Tang Dynasty, these noodle-making techniques had spread to Japan. Over time, Putian Braised Noodles evolved into the distinctive dish it is today.
Preparation Process
The preparation of Putian Braised Noodles is meticulous, involving multiple steps, including ingredient preparation, stir-frying, broth making, and noodle boiling. Key elements like gluten, rich broth, and flavorful ingredients are essential to its success.
- Ingredient Preparation: High-quality flour is used to knead and roll the dough, ensuring the noodles have a firm and chewy texture. Meats like pork and shrimp are sliced in advance, while dried ingredients such as mushrooms, scallops, and dried shrimp are soaked and drained.
- Stir-frying Ingredients: Aromatic ingredients like green onion, ginger, and garlic are sautéed in oil, followed by stir-frying the soaked mushrooms, dried shrimp, and other ingredients to release their flavors.
- Broth Making: The best segments of pork bones are selected to simmer a rich, white broth. The broth is carefully prepared with a fixed water-to-bone ratio to ensure its concentrated flavor.
- Cooking the Noodles: The noodles are boiled in hot water, then transferred to serving bowls, topped with the seasoned broth and stir-fried ingredients.
Flavor and Characteristics
Putian Braised Noodles are known for their savory and umami-rich taste, with noodles that are perfectly chewy and resilient. The broth is thick and flavorful, complementing the fresh ingredients in every bite. The addition of red mushrooms gives the dish a distinctive aroma, making it even more fragrant and memorable.
