Longevity Noodles (Yi Mein, 伊面)
Feb 09, 2025 03:28 AM
Celebrate next Lunar New Year with these longevity noodles made with chewy Yi Mein and mushrooms, brought together with a savory brown sauce and aromatics.
In Chinese culture, noodles are more than just a staple food—they carry a special symbolic meaning, especially during celebrations. Longevity noodles, made with Yi Mein (伊面), are a classic dish served at birthdays, weddings, and festive occasions such as Chinese New Year. Traditionally, Yi Mein is usually made fresh from scratch. The long, unbroken strands represent a wish for a long and prosperous life.
Yi Mein, also known as E-Fu noodles (伊府面), is the star ingredient of longevity noodles. These wheat-based noodles are pre-fried, giving them a distinctive golden-brown color and spongy texture. Their ability to soak up flavorful sauces makes them ideal for a variety of dishes.
Longevity noodles are traditionally served for:
Birthdays: Symbolizing health and long life.
Weddings: Representing a long and happy union.
Chinese New Year: Wishing prosperity in the coming year.
The key to longevity noodles? Never cut the strands while cooking or serving. The longer the noodles, the greater the blessings!
Ingredients:
- 6 (30 g) dried shiitake mushrooms
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons dark soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
Stir fry
- 12 oz (340 g) thick Shanghai Noodles (or udon noodles)
- 2 tablespoons peanut oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1/2 lb (227 g) oyster mushrooms (or any other mushroom you prefer), cut to bite-size pieces
- 2 cloves garlic , minced
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
- 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine
- 2 tablespoons mushroom soaking water
- 8 stalks garlic chives , or 4 green onions, cut into 1” (5 cm) pieces
Prep Time:
20 minutes
Cook Time:
15 minutes
Total Time:
35 minutes
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