"Silky" Road

When it comes to Chinese noodle types, most Americans are familiar with Lo Mein, or Chow Mein. Others are familiar with Ramen noodles, which are actually a distant cousin to Chinese Wheat Noodles. However, as more Chinese immigrants come to America,  they’re bringing unique dishes and types of Chinese noodles with them.

In this article, we’ll take a look at some Chinese Noodle types that you probably won’t know about unless you’re Chinese.

Knife Cut Noodles 刀削麵

Thick, delicious and straight from Shanxi. The name is derived from the way the dough is cut, usually, chefs cut the noodles from dough, which is why the noodles have thick and have jagged edges. At certain restaurants, the chef will actually place the dough on his head and cut the dough into the water.

Dan Dan Noodles 擔擔麵

A variation of egg noodles from Sichuan province, which can be served alone or with soup. It is traditionally served in a spicy sauce. The name is derived from the dan dan poles the street vendors used to sell the noodles.

Dragon Beard Noodles 龙须面

These noodles are from the Shandong province, in northern China. They have been around for several centuries and they were created during the Ming Dynasty, by a chef who wanted to appease the emperor. The thin size of the noodles was likened to hair or the beard of a Chinese Dragon.

LanZhou Noodles

Handmade noodles from the city of Lanzhou. There are specific guidelines about how to make these noodles, and they are accompanied by a beef broth. Both recipes are specific to Lanzhou. These noodles are thin and have been compared to Japanese Ramen.

Chongqing Noodles 重庆小面

These noodles are from Chongqing China, and they are referred to as xiǎomiàn, which means little noodles.  They are usually served as a breakfast dish, along with meats and vegetables.

Types of Chinese Noodles

There are so many different types of Chinese Noodles to choose from, each with their unique taste and story.