Name: Authentic Dan Dan Noodles with Pork and Sesame Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Sichuan
Ingredients: 2 tbsp Chinese sesame paste (sub tahini); 1.5 tbsp Chinese chili paste in oil, adjust spiciness; 4 tbsp light soy sauce; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 3 tsp white sugar; 1/2 tsp Chinese five spice powder; 1 tsp Sichuan pepper powder, preferably freshly ground; 3 tbsp (or more) chili oil, preferably Chinese; 3/4 cup (185ml) chicken broth/stock, hot, low sodium; 2 tsp Hoisin sauce; 1 tsp dark soy sauce; 1 tbsp Chinese cooking wine (or sub 2 tbsp extra chicken stock); 1/2 tsp Chinese five spice powder; 1 tbsp vegetable oil; 250g (8oz) pork mince (ground pork); 1 tsp vegetable oil; 30g (1/4 cup) Sui Mi Ya Cai (preserved mustard greens), finely chopped; 500g (1lb) white fresh noodles, medium thickness; 16 choy sum stems, cut into 15cm pieces; 2 green onions, finely sliced; 1 tbsp peanuts, finely chopped (optional)

If you’re craving a bowl of noodles that bursts with flavor and has that perfect balance of spicy, savory, and nutty, you’re going to want to try this Authentic Dan Dan Noodles with Pork and Sesame Recipe. I absolutely love how this recipe brings together the comforting chew of fresh noodles, the richness of sesame, and a little heat that wakes up your taste buds. When I first tried making these at home, I discovered some neat tricks that make it super approachable, and I can’t wait to share them with you. So stick around — your taste buds will thank you!

🤍

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Authentic Flavor: This recipe uses traditional ingredients like Chinese sesame paste and Sichuan pepper to capture that classic Dan Dan noodle taste.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy nights when you want something special without fuss.
Balanced Heat: The chili oil and chili paste bring spice, but it’s never overwhelming—just the right kick.
Versatile & Crowd-Pleasing: Everyone from spice lovers to noodle newcomers enjoys this dish—it’s a guaranteed hit for family and friends.

A white bowl filled with three main layers: at the bottom, thick white noodles mixed with a red oily sauce that gives a shiny texture; on top, a layer of dark brown minced meat scattered evenly; around the edges, bright green leafy vegetables adding fresh color; garnished with sliced light green scallions and small beige crushed nuts. A pair of dark brown chopsticks hold a small twisted bunch of noodles dipped in the sauce at the right side of the bowl. Some scallions and nut bits are scattered on the dark surface around the bowl. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Authentic Dan Dan Noodles with Pork and Sesame, Dan Dan Noodles recipe, spicy Sichuan noodles, Chinese pork noodle dish, sesame and chili noodle bowl

Ingredients You’ll Need

I always find that using fresh, quality ingredients makes a huge difference here — especially the noodles and the sauces. If you can, visiting an Asian grocery store will open you up to some fantastic finds like Chinese sesame paste and preserved mustard greens, which really take this dish up a notch.

Flat lay of a small mound of thick, creamy Chinese sesame paste, a small white bowl of bright red chili paste in oil, a small white bowl of dark light soy sauce, two whole uncracked garlic cloves, a small white bowl of white granulated sugar, a small white bowl of earthy brown Chinese five spice powder, a small white bowl of finely ground reddish Sichuan pepper powder, a small white bowl of vibrant red chili oil, a small white bowl of golden chicken broth, a small white bowl of glossy dark hoisin sauce, a small white bowl of thick dark soy sauce, a small white bowl of pale golden Chinese cooking wine, a small white bowl of clear vegetable oil, a small portion of raw pink pork mince, a small pile of finely chopped deep green preserved mustard greens, a neat pile of fresh white medium-thickness wheat noodles (about 3mm thick), a bunch of fresh green choy sum stems cut into 15 cm sections, two whole green onions sliced thinly, and a small heap of coarsely chopped light brown peanuts, all arranged in perfect symmetry on simple white ceramic bowls and plates, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997 - Authentic Dan Dan Noodles with Pork and Sesame, Dan Dan Noodles recipe, spicy Sichuan noodles, Chinese pork noodle dish, sesame and chili noodle bowl

Chinese sesame paste: This thick paste is the heart of the sauce and delivers a deep, nutty flavor that’s better than regular tahini.
Chinese chili paste in oil: Packs a spicy punch and adds a beautiful red hue; I like brands like Fuyun Xiang La Wang.
Light soy sauce: Use this for a balanced salty flavor without overpowering the dish.
Garlic cloves: Freshly minced garlic adds aromatic depth every time.
White sugar: Balances out the savory and spicy notes with a touch of sweetness.
Chinese five spice powder: A unique blend giving subtle warmth and complexity.
Sichuan pepper powder: This gives that signature tingly, numbing sensation essential to authentic Dan Dan noodles.
Chili oil: Adds both heat and luscious oiliness to the dish; feel free to adjust for your spice preference.
Chicken broth: Use low sodium and hot to create the sauce’s base, making everything feel fresh and savory.
Hoisin sauce: Adds a sweet and tangy undertone to the pork topping.
Dark soy sauce: Deepens the color and flavor intensity for the pork.
Chinese cooking wine: Brightens the pork topping with subtle fruity notes; can be substituted with extra broth if needed.
Vegetable oil: For cooking and stirring in ingredients smoothly.
Pork mince: Just the right amount to sprinkle over noodles, enhancing texture and protein.
Sui Mi Ya Cai (preserved mustard greens): Briny and tangy, a little goes a long way to add authenticity and contrast—kimchi can be a good substitute.
Fresh white noodles: Aim for medium thickness for ideal bite and texture.
Choy sum stems: Adds a fresh, crisp green touch to accompany the noodles.
Green onions: Finely sliced for freshness and a pop of color.
Peanuts: Chopped for crunch, but totally optional if you’re not a fan or have allergies.

📝

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

One of the things I love about the Authentic Dan Dan Noodles with Pork and Sesame Recipe is how easy it is to tweak to suit your mood or what you have on hand. Don’t be shy about making it your own!

Vegetarian Variation: Swap pork for crumbled tofu or mushrooms for a meat-free version that still satisfies crave-worthy textures.
Heat Level Adjustment: If you’re sensitive to spice, reduce the chili paste and chili oil—but keep the Sichuan pepper for that classic numbing effect.
Green Veggies: Try substituting choy sum with bok choy, spinach, or even snap peas for a fresh twist.
Extra Protein: If your family loves more meat, feel free to double the pork—to keep it authentic, just remember the pork is more of a garnish than the main filling.

How to Make Authentic Dan Dan Noodles with Pork and Sesame Recipe

Step 1: Whip Up the Perfect Dan Dan Sauce

Start with mixing all the sauce ingredients except the chili oil and chicken broth. The sesame paste can be a bit thick, so stirring it together well helps build a creamy base. Once everything’s combined, gently fold in the chili oil and hot chicken broth—the oil should float on top, giving that beautiful red sheen and richness. Set this aside; it’s the soul of your dish.

Step 2: Cook the Pork Topping Just Right

Mix the hoisin sauce, dark soy sauce, Chinese cooking wine, and five-spice powder separately to form a quick flavor-packed marinade. Heat your skillet over high heat, add oil, then toss in the pork mince. As it cooks, break it up so you get nice crumbled bits that soak up the sauce. Once it turns from pink to white and a little golden, add your seasoning sauce and let it cook for another minute. Then transfer the pork into a bowl—this mini topping is like a flavorful treasure on your noodles.

Step 3: Warm the Preserved Mustard Greens

Back to the skillet—turn the heat down to medium and add a splash of oil. Toss in the finely chopped preserved mustard greens (Sui Mi Ya Cai) and stir just for 30 seconds to warm through. This little step releases their signature tang and saltiness that contrasts beautifully with the pork and sauce.

Step 4: Cook Noodles and Greens Together

Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook your noodles just according to the package instructions — fresh noodles usually take just a few minutes. Add choy sum stems during the last minute of cooking so they stay vibrant and slightly crisp. Drain them together, and they’re ready for assembly.

Step 5: Assemble and Enjoy!

Ladle about a quarter of the Dan Dan sauce into each bowl, pile in your noodles, then top with the pork and mustard greens. Set the choy sum beside or on top, whichever you prefer. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped peanuts and sliced green onions. The magic happens when you mix everything thoroughly, letting the sauce coat each strand of noodle. Trust me, this is when the flavors truly come alive. Then, dig in and savor every bite!

👨‍🍳

Pro Tips for Making Authentic Dan Dan Noodles with Pork and Sesame Recipe

Use Fresh Noodles When Possible: They absorb the sauce better and have a nicer texture than dried varieties.
Toast & Grind Sichuan Pepper: If you can, lightly toasting and grinding fresh Sichuan pepper really amps up that signature numbing sensation.
Don’t Skimp on Chili Oil: It adds essential richness and heat — I like to add a little extra if I’m feeling bold.
Reserve Cooking Water for Noodles: Adding a splash can help loosen your sauce if it feels too thick for your liking.

How to Serve Authentic Dan Dan Noodles with Pork and Sesame Recipe

Authentic Dan Dan Noodles with Pork and Sesame Recipe - Serving

Garnishes

I always finish my Dan Dan noodles with a generous sprinkle of chopped peanuts because they add that wonderful crunchy contrast to the smooth sauce and tender noodles. Green onions bring fresh brightness and color, perfect for cutting through the richness. Sometimes I’ll add a touch of fresh cilantro or a drizzle of toasted sesame oil for an extra fragrance boost—highly recommended if you love sesame!

Side Dishes

To keep things balanced, I like serving these noodles with simple sides like steamed bok choy or garlic sautéed greens. A light cucumber salad with a splash of rice vinegar also provides a cool contrast that pairs beautifully with the spicy, nutty flavors. And if you’re feeling adventurous, some pan-fried dumplings or potstickers make a fun accompaniment.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like to present the dish family-style with each component in small bowls: the sauce, pork topping, greens, and noodles laid out separately so everyone can build their bowl just how they like it. It’s interactive and sparks conversation. Another idea is to serve in deep ramen bowls layered beautifully with vibrant garnishes for that Instagram-worthy charm.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

When I have leftovers, I keep the sauce and toppings separate from the noodles to avoid sogginess. The pork topping and preserved mustard greens store well in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. The sauce holds up nicely too, just give it a quick stir before using again.

Freezing

I usually freeze the pork topping alone if I have extras—just portion it out in freezer-safe containers. It freezes well for up to a month. The sauce is best fresh but can be frozen if you’re really keen, though the texture may change slightly.

Reheating

Reheat the pork topping gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent it from drying out. For noodles, I prefer warming them quickly in boiling water or a hot pan with a splash of broth or sauce to revive their texture. Then reassemble with fresh sauce and garnishes for the best experience.

FAQs

Can I use tahini instead of Chinese sesame paste in this recipe?

Absolutely! While Chinese sesame paste has a thicker, richer flavor, tahini is a great substitute if you can’t find it. To get closer to the authentic taste, I recommend adding a couple teaspoons of toasted sesame oil alongside the tahini. This helps mimic the deeper nutty aroma.
How spicy is this Authentic Dan Dan Noodles with Pork and Sesame Recipe?

This recipe brings some heat but is balanced and not overwhelmingly spicy. You can easily dial down the chili paste and chili oil if you prefer milder dishes. The Sichuan pepper provides a unique numbing sensation rather than pure heat, so it’s a different kind of spice experience.
What’s the best type of noodle to use for Dan Dan noodles?

Fresh white wheat noodles of medium thickness (around 3mm) are ideal—they soak up the sauce beautifully and have just the right bite. If you can’t find fresh, dried noodles will work, but cook them carefully to avoid over-softening.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, with careful substitutions. Use gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce and choose gluten-free noodles such as rice noodles or wheat-free Asian-style noodles. Keep in mind the texture and flavor might differ slightly from the traditional version.

Final Thoughts

I honestly can’t recommend this Authentic Dan Dan Noodles with Pork and Sesame Recipe enough—it’s one of those recipes that instantly became a staple in my kitchen. It’s so flavorful, easy to prepare, and perfect for anyone wanting a genuine taste of Sichuan street food at home. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight or an intimate dinner gathering, this bowl of noodles hits the spot every time. So grab those ingredients, mix up the sauce, and let me know how your first bowl tastes—I bet your family will go crazy for it!