Shanxi Cat’s Ear Noodles: A Hidden Gem of Northern China(抿圪斗)

1. Origin and History

This dish originated in Shanxi farmhouses, using ancient whole-grain wisdom.
Farmers transformed coarse grains into nourishing noodles, showing thrift and creativity.

2. Cultural Significance

Known as the “hidden champion” of Shanxi noodles, it doesn’t rely on fancy shapes.
Its simple, hearty taste is a comforting flavor in every household.
It represents Shanxi people’s humble and practical character.

3. Ingredients and Appearance

Main ingredients: bean flour, sorghum flour, and white flour mix.
Key tool: a perforated “pressing board” or “minch bed.”
Finished noodles are 3–4 cm long, pointed at both ends, shaped like tiny tadpoles (“Ge Dou” in local dialect).

4. Cooking Method

The secret is the “pressing” motion: press soft dough on the minch bed.
Dough falls through holes into boiling water, instantly forming noodles.
Drain and pour flavorful gravy over them to serve.

5. Taste and Texture

Noodles are smooth yet slightly sandy from bean flour, very chewy.
They hold gravy well, delivering a rich whole-grain aroma with savory sauce.

6. How to Eat

Best with a big spoon of rich gravy.
Classic pairings: tomato-egg gravy, stir-fried pork gravy, or Shanxi pickled tofu gravy.
It’s heartwarming and satisfying.

7. Where to Try

Find it in Taiyuan, Jinzhong, or Shanxi-style restaurants.
Recommended spots: “Bingzhou Da Pai Dang” or “Old Taiyuan Restaurant.”
Price: 15–25 RMB per bowl.
Order by saying: “One bowl of Min Ge Dou,” and choose your favorite gravy.

8. Tips for Tourists

English names: “Shanxi Cat’s Ear Noodles” or phonetic “Mian Ge Dou.”
It’s a unique main dish, perfect for experiencing authentic Shanxi noodle culture.

9. Home Cooking Version

Mix bean and white flour, add water, make soft dough.
Cook tomato sauce, add scrambled eggs for gravy.
Press dough on minch bed, drop into boiling water for 2 minutes.
Drain noodles, pour hot tomato-egg gravy, add a few drops of aged Shanxi vinegar, mix, and enjoy.

✨ Don’t be fooled by its tadpole shape. This curious, delicious noodle unlocks Shanxi’s noodle universe.
Bravely try it and add it to your China noodle must-eat list—you’ll find the most authentic flavors in humble traditions.