Slow Cooker Dan Dan Noodles bring the bold flavors of Sichuan cuisine to your table with minimal effort. This comforting dish features tender ground pork simmered in a rich and savory sauce, served over noodles and garnished with crunchy peanuts, fresh green onions, and cilantro. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal that’s bursting with flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground pork
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
- 3 tablespoons peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili oil or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
- 8 ounces dried Chinese noodles or spaghetti
- 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
- 3 green onions, sliced
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In the slow cooker, combine chicken broth, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, peanut butter, rice vinegar, sesame oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, chili oil (adjust to taste), and white pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Add the Ground Pork:
- Crumble the ground pork into the slow cooker, ensuring it’s submerged in the sauce mixture.
- Cook in the Slow Cooker:
- Cover and cook on low heat for 4-6 hours or on high heat for 2-3 hours, until the pork is tender and cooked through.
- Cook the Noodles:
- While the pork is cooking, prepare the noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Serve:
- To serve, place a portion of noodles into individual bowls. Ladle the pork and sauce mixture over the noodles.
- Garnish:
- Garnish each bowl with chopped peanuts, sliced green onions, and fresh cilantro.
Cook Notes:
- Noodle Options: Use traditional Chinese noodles like Dan Dan noodles or substitute with spaghetti if unavailable.
- Adjusting Spice: Increase or decrease the amount of chili oil according to your preference for spiciness.
- Make-Ahead Tip: The pork and sauce mixture can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground pork with crumbled tofu or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
- Spicy Variation: Add extra chili oil or crushed red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.
- Nut-Free Version: Omit peanuts and use toasted sesame seeds as a nut-free garnish.
Keto and Low Carb Versions:
- Keto Version: Replace noodles with spiralized zucchini (zoodles) or shirataki noodles. Ensure soy sauce and hoisin sauce are low-sugar or sugar-free options.
- Low Carb Version: Use low-carb noodles or cauliflower rice instead of traditional noodles.
Slow Cooker Dan Dan Noodles offer a convenient way to enjoy the complex flavors of Sichuan cuisine at home. With a rich and savory sauce infused with peanut butter, sesame, and ginger, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Serve it up for dinner and savor the delicious blend of textures and tastes in every bite.
FAQs:
- Can I use ground chicken or beef instead of pork?
- Yes, ground chicken or beef can be substituted for pork in this recipe. Adjust cooking times as needed to ensure the meat is thoroughly cooked.
- How can I adjust the sauce to my taste preferences?
- Feel free to adjust the amount of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and chili oil to suit your preferred level of saltiness and spiciness.
- What should I serve with Slow Cooker Dan Dan Noodles?
- Serve with steamed vegetables, such as bok choy or broccoli, for added nutrition and freshness.
- Can I freeze leftovers?
- Yes, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 1 month. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Enjoy preparing and sharing Slow Cooker Dan Dan Noodles with your family and friends, and experience the authentic flavors of Sichuan cuisine in every delicious bite!
