Yangbi Roll Rice Noodles (漾濞卷粉), or Yangbi Juan Fen, are a traditional Yunnan delicacy with a history tracing back to the era of the Dian-Yue Railway, approximately 30 years ago. The dish originated from Vietnamese street vendors who sold Vietnamese rice rolls along the railway line. Over time, this dish found its way to Yangbi County in Yunnan, where it evolved into a local specialty with a distinctive regional flair.
Main Ingredients and Preparation
Main Ingredients:
- High-Quality Rice: The essence of Yangbi Roll Rice Noodles lies in using premium rice, which is soaked, ground into a slurry, and then steamed through multiple steps.
- Filling: The filling is a standout feature, often consisting of walnut paste and peanut paste. Historical versions also include bean sprouts, shiitake mushrooms, and spicy sauces. Additional accompaniments often include pickled vegetables, Sichuan pepper oil, and garlic oil.
Preparation Process:
- Soaking and Grinding: Soak high-quality rice for several hours until it becomes slightly sticky. Then grind it using a stone mill to create a creamy, white rice slurry.
- Steaming: On a traditional wood-fired stove, heat water until boiling. Pour the rice slurry into a special iron mold to form thin, transparent sheets of rice noodles. This step requires skill to ensure the noodles are white and tender.
- Shaping and Seasoning: Once steamed, remove the rice noodle sheets and sprinkle with walnut paste, finely chopped pickled vegetables, and chili oil according to personal taste. The noodles can be rolled into tubes or cut into strips for serving.
Taste and Flavor
Yangbi Roll Rice Noodles offer a delicate and smooth texture. The thin, resilient rice skin melds perfectly with the rich fillings, creating a unique sensory experience. The dish features a complex flavor profile with spicy, tangy, and sweet notes. The rice aroma is fresh, complemented by the richness of walnut paste and the tanginess of pickled vegetables, making it a memorable culinary delight.
Yangbi Roll Rice Noodles are versatile and suitable for any meal of the day, whether as a breakfast, lunch, or dinner snack. During hot summer days, a bowl of tangy and spicy Yangbi Roll Rice Noodles provides a refreshing and nutritious option. In the winter, the warm dish offers comfort and satisfaction. If you visit Yangbi County in Yunnan, this authentic local specialty is definitely worth trying.