Zunyi Douhua Mian (遵义豆花面), or Zunyi Tofu Pudding Noodles, is a distinctive noodle dish originating from the Zunyi region of Guizhou, boasting a long history and unique culinary craftsmanship. The dish traces its roots back to the Guangxu period of the Qing Dynasty when it was initially a vegetarian noodle soup served by a charitable family for those visiting the Xiangshan Temple for worship. Over time, through continuous refinement and development, Zunyi Douhua Mian evolved into its authentic form and became widely popular in Zunyi City. Today, it stands as a renowned specialty snack of Guizhou Province, attracting numerous visitors eager to taste its flavors.
The main ingredients of Zunyi Douhua Mian include noodles and tofu pudding. The noodles are made from high-quality flour mixed with fresh eggs, a small amount of starch, and alkaline water. The resulting noodles are wider and slightly longer than regular noodles, offering a chewy texture. The tofu pudding is made by grinding soybeans into slurry, then coagulating it with acidic water to form tofu. It has a delicate, smooth texture, and a slightly glutinous yet non-sticky mouthfeel.
To serve, the cooked noodles are placed in a bowl, topped with the tofu pudding, and then covered with soy milk. Additionally, a plate of specially prepared chili dipping sauce accompanies the dish. The sauce includes ingredients such as oil chili flakes, diced chicken cooked in soy sauce, crispy fried peanuts, Sichuan peppercorn powder, salt, MSG, minced scallions, ginger, garlic, a few drops of sesame oil, and chopped coriander. Diners use chopsticks to pick up the noodles and tofu pudding, dip them into the chili sauce, and enjoy the spicy yet savory flavor with a rich aroma, leaving a lingering taste that delights the palate.
In addition to noodles and tofu pudding, Zunyi Douhua Mian can incorporate a variety of toppings such as shredded pork, beef, ham, barbecued pork, as well as pickled vegetables, bean sprouts, soybean sprouts, and other vegetables, enhancing the complexity of flavors.
In conclusion, Zunyi Douhua Mian is not just a delicious dish but also a reflection of the traditional culture and history of the Zunyi region. Its unique craftsmanship and flavor combination allow people to experience not only the culinary delight but also the distinctive charm and profound cultural heritage of Zunyi. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, enjoying a bowl of Douhua Mian offers a taste of Zunyi’s unique allure.