Best Ancient Chinese Noodle Cookies Recipes

Ancient Chinese Noodle Cookies Recipes: A Journey Through History and Taste

The Chinese culture is known for its rich history, traditions, and mouth-watering delicacies. One of its lesser-known delicacies is the ancient Chinese noodle cookies, which have been a part of Chinese cuisine for over a millennia.

The Origin of Noodle Cookies

The noodle cookies, also known as "youzha guazi" in Mandarin, have a unique history. The cookies were invented during the Tang dynasty (618-907 BC) by a talented cook. During that time, wheat noodles were a popular food item, but cooks were perplexed with leftover dough as it was too small to be cooked as a separate dish. To avoid waste, the cook created noodles that were twisted into the shape of a knot, deep-fried until crispy, then dusted with sugar or another sweetener. Thus, the first noodle cookies were born, and they quickly became a popular snack and dessert throughout China.

The Ingredients Used in Noodle Cookies

The noodle cookies are deceptively simple to make, requiring only a few ingredients. The recipe calls for plain wheat flour, eggs, sugar, salt, and vegetable oil for frying. The dough is kneaded until smooth, rolled out, cut into strips, then twisted into a knot-like shape before frying. The unique aspect of noodle cookies is their versatility. They can be served as a savory snack or a sweet dessert. The addition of Chinese five-spice powder and sesame seeds gives them a savory flavor, while cinnamon and nutmeg lend a sweet taste. The cookies are often dusted with icing sugar or sesame seeds before serving.

The Significance of Noodle Cookies in Chinese Culture

Apart from being a delicious snack or dessert, noodle cookies hold significant cultural significance. In ancient Chinese culture, the knot symbolizes unity, harmony, and longevity. It is often used as an emblem in Chinese literature, calligraphy, and painting. When given as a gift, noodle cookies represent good luck, as the twisted shape symbolizes good fortune and prosperity.

The Evolution of Noodle Cookies

Over time, the noodle cookie recipe has evolved, with variations appearing in different regions of China. In some regions, cooks add mashed taro or yam to the dough to give it a more filling, starchy taste. Others use a combination of wheat and rice flour for a lighter texture. One popular Chinese noodle cookie variation is the "jianzi," which is a more complex knot-shaped cookie with an egg yolk filling. The cookie is challenging to make, with the dough carefully wrapped around the yolk before being deep-fried.

The Global Appeal of Noodle Cookies

Noodle cookies have gained popularity outside of China, with Asian restaurants throughout the world serving them as a dessert or snack. The cookie is also gaining popularity amongst health enthusiasts, as it is made with plain flour and can be easily modified to be low in fat and sugar. In recent years, noodle cookie recipes have been modified to appeal to a broader palette, with variations featuring chocolate, matcha, and other modern flavors.

In Conclusion

In conclusion, ancient Chinese noodle cookies are a delicious, versatile snack that has stood the test of time. The cookies' unique knot shape, rich cultural significance, and adaptable recipe have made them a beloved dish throughout China and beyond. Whether used as a snack, a dessert, or a gift, noodle cookies are a unique and delightful treat for the senses.

Ancient Chinese noodle cookies are a unique dessert that originated in China several centuries ago. The cookies are a blend of wheat flour and fine egg noodles, giving them a crispy texture and sweet flavor. These cookies are easy to make, and the recipe requires only a few ingredients that are commonly found in most kitchens. In this article, we will discuss valuable tips and tricks to help you prepare delicious ancient Chinese noodle cookies.

Prepare the dough accordingly

The dough is the critical aspect of this recipe, so it is crucial to prepare it thoroughly. The dough should be smooth, firm, and elastic to ensure that the cookies will be crispy and delicious. To make the dough, you will need all-purpose wheat flour, fine egg noodles, sugar, eggs, and water. First, prepare the noodles by boiling them in water until they are soft but not overcooked. Mix the flour and sugar in a large mixing bowl, then add the cooked noodles and mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed. Beat the eggs and add them to the mixture. Begin kneading the dough by hand, adding water a little at a time until it is smooth and firm.

Rolling and cutting the cookies

After preparing the dough, the next step is rolling and cutting the cookies. This step can significantly impact the texture and final taste of your cookies. Begin by dividing the dough into small pieces and flatten each one using a rolling pin. When rolling the dough, try to keep it as thin as possible, as this will help it to cook evenly and achieve a crispy texture. Use cookie cutters to cut the cookies into your desired shape.

Use the right oil for frying

To make sure that your ancient Chinese noodle cookies are crispy, it is essential to use the right oil for frying. Some of the best oils for this recipe may include peanut, canola, sunflower, and vegetable oil. When heating the oil, it is vital to monitor the temperature to achieve the best results. Heat the oil to approximately 350-375 degrees Fahrenheit before adding the cookies. Overheating the oil can lead to burnt cookies, while under-heating it results in soggy ones.

Use appropriate tools for frying

To fry the cookies, you will need a deep fryer or a deep frying pan. When using a deep fryer, follow the manufacturer's instructions to ensure that the temperature remains stable, and the cookies are cooked evenly. For those using a frying pan at home, choose a sturdy one with a thick bottom that can withstand high heat without warping.

Cooking the cookies evenly

To ensure that the cookies cook evenly and achieve a crispy texture, it is essential to maintain the oil temperature throughout the cooking process. Fry the cookies for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown. Do not overcrowd the pan so that the cookies cook evenly.

Draining excess oil

After cooking the cookies, it is essential to drain any excess oil to achieve a crispy texture. To do this, place the cookies on a paper towel or a wire rack to allow the excess oil to drain off.

Storage and preservation

To store the cookies, place them in an airtight container and keep them at room temperature. The cookies can stay fresh for up to two weeks when stored in this manner. You can also freeze the cookies for longer storage but ensure that they are well wrapped so that they do not absorb moisture and become soggy.

Conclusion

Ancient Chinese noodle cookies are a unique dessert that is easy to make and delicious. By following the tips and tricks in this article, you can prepare crispy and flavorful cookies that the whole family will love. Remember to prepare the dough thoroughly, use appropriate tools for frying, use the right oil, and cook the cookies evenly. With these tips, you can achieve perfect ancient Chinese noodle cookies every time.