How to make Sesame Noodles

Why cooks start here

Sesame Noodles is cooked the way Beijing summers cooks it — salt judged by hand, fat used generously, and the table set for sharing. This is the home version, written down the way a chinese family cook actually puts it on the table.

Sesame Noodles, a staple of Beijing summers, is a dish that thrives in the heat, when noodles cool and flavors meld effortlessly. Traditionally prepared by hand, this home version captures the essence of a Chinese family kitchen, where salt is judged intuitively and a generous hand with fat ensures a satisfying richness. It's a meal meant for sharing, laid out on a table that welcomes friends and family alike. The dish offers a silky texture, with wheat noodles cloaked in a creamy sesame paste that's lifted by a splash of soy sauce and vinegar. A hint of chili oil brings a gentle heat, while crisp cucumber slices provide a refreshing bite. Each mouthful balances savory and nutty flavors, creating an irresistible combination that beckons you to savor every bite.