Northeast-style cold noodles“东北大冷面”（dōng běi dà lěng miàn）.
In the blazing heat of summer, a bowl of refreshing cold noodles is presented before you, as if accompanied by a cool breeze. The delicate and smooth noodles, twirling around the chopsticks like silk, gently emit a slight coolness. Through the clear broth, one can see a variety of vibrant and colorful toppings, resembling a beautiful painting that arouses longing. First are the cucumber strands, dripping with an alluring shade of green, seemingly suggesting that in this sweltering summer, a mouthful of delicious cold noodles can bring freshness and satisfaction. Following are the temptingly red tomato slices, imparting a natural sweetness to the cold noodles, leaving a lasting impression. Then come the crisp and delectable radish shreds, adding a unique texture and refreshing touch to the whole bowl of cold noodles.
Comprehensive rating:
| PREP TIME | COOK TIME | VARIETY | MOUTHFEEL | LEVEL |
| 1440 min | 3 min | 7 | sweet 、 sour appetizing | Easy |
Ingredients for Northeast-style cold noodles:
| cold noodles | 300g |
| Sprite | 350g |
| Cucumber | 50g |
| Tomato | 30g |
| Light soy sauce | 3g |
| White vinegar | 10g |
| Suger | 10g |
| Salt | 3g |
Steps:
1.Soak the cold noodles in water for 24 hours, with patience and delicacy. The noodles float in the water, as if intertwining with the coolness of nature. As time passes, the noodles become smooth and silky, like flowing silk threads. Cutting the cucumber into thin strips is a gentle and sensitive action. Each cucumber is sliced into even and slender strands. The blade glides over the cucumber’s texture, releasing a faint fragrance that injects vitality into the cold noodles. The prepared cucumber strands are neatly arranged in a small bowl, vibrant green and enchanting like a fairyland in summer. The gentle slicing of tomatoes unfolds a colorful painting. Each slice of tomato is plump and alluring, shimmering with natural redness. During the cutting process, the tomatoes release a subtle aroma, igniting excitement for the upcoming cold noodles.
2.Prepare an empty bowl and gently pour in white sugar, white vinegar, soy sauce, and salt. The white sugar adds a touch of sweetness, while the white vinegar adds a subtle acidity. Soy sauce imparts a unique umami taste to the cold noodles, and salt balances the overall flavor. Next, slowly add Sprite to the bowl. The bubbles of Sprite dance, jumping in the clear liquid, bringing vitality and freshness to the cold noodles. The sweetness of Sprite blends with the previously added white sugar, creating a delightful mouthfeel. Then, add an appropriate amount of water to the bowl. The water allows all the seasonings and Sprite to mix thoroughly, forming a pool of refreshing liquid. Carefully use a spoon or a mixer to stir all the ingredients until the sugar dissolves and the liquid becomes homogeneous. Now, place the well-stirred cold noodle sauce in the refrigerator. Under the low temperature in the fridge, the cold noodle sauce gradually congeals, enhancing its flavor and richness. The refrigeration time can be adjusted according to personal preference, but it is generally recommended to refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to fully blend.
3.Bring a pot of water to a boil. As the flame licks the bottom of the pot, the water gradually heats up, steam rising and filling the kitchen with warmth and anticipation. When the water boils, gently place the soaked cold noodles into the hot water. It only takes 5 seconds to blanch, enough to make the cold noodles more tender and elastic. In this brief moment, the cold noodles merge with the hot water, releasing an enticing aroma. Then, use chopsticks or a strainer to quickly scoop out the blanched cold noodles and immediately transfer them into cold water. The cold water washes away excess starch and cools down the noodles. The cold water flows over the cold noodles, thoroughly rinsing them and leaving each strand pure and fresh. Now it’s time to place the cold noodles into the previously prepared cold noodle sauce. Carefully place the cold noodles into a bowl, letting them be coated with the sauce. Every strand absorbs the deliciousness of the cold noodle sauce, exuding an enticing aroma. The sauce permeates the noodles, bringing richness and intensity to every bite. Next, arrange the sliced cucumber strands and tomato slices on top of the cold noodles. The vibrant green of the cucumber complements the bright redness of the tomatoes, creating a picturesque scene. They are like beautiful decorations, embellishing the refreshing and colorful bowl of cold noodles. At this moment, a bowl of delightful cold noodles is ready! You can enjoy this cool and delicious dish to your heart’s content.
Tips：
1.Soaking time: To achieve the best texture, it is recommended to soak the cold noodles in water for at least 24 hours. This makes the noodles softer and more elastic.
2.Rinsing the cold noodles: After blanching the cold noodles, immediately rinse them in cold water to remove excess starch and quickly cool down the noodles. This helps maintain the refreshing taste of the cold noodles.
The wonder of cold noodles extends beyond the realm of taste, encompassing a certain emotional solace. In this sweltering summer, cold noodles become a sanctuary for individuals, a bowl of cold noodles whisking them away from the hustle and bustle, immersing them in tranquility and contentment. Taking one’s time to savor the coolness and flavors with each bite induces complete relaxation of the mind and body, embracing the refreshing essence of summer.Cold noodles embody a culinary artistry, evoking the vibrancy and freshness of the season. Every mouthful brings forth a sense of enjoyment, and every bowl sings praises to life. Whether it be on a scorching afternoon, at home, or in front of a tucked-away cold noodle stand in an alley, this delight accompanies you, imparting joy and gratification. In the realm of cold noodles, time seems to decelerate, unveiling serenity and beauty in everything. Savoring each strand of cold noodles gently allows you to feel the cooling sensation of summer and relish in the wonders of life.