What: Xao Mien

Where: Local mom and pop noodle shop. Zhuji, Zhejiang Province.

How Much: 10 RMB

Ingredients: Fried home-made noodles, minced pork, cabbage, seaweed, green onion, egg.

Description: One of my favorite dishes in China. Mom and pop noodle shops like this one are everywhere in China and each one has their own variation of xao mien. They all consist of fried noodles and pork and the rest is up to the chef. I think what makes this dish so great is that there is no "perfect" version. Each one is catered to the chef's taste, the preference of the locals, and the region of the country. However, I have tried several different types around China, and this is by far my favorite. The noodles are hands pressed in the shop. They are a "perfect" doughy consistency of soft and chewy. The cabbage gives the dish a great crunch and tangy taste, the seaweed adds a unique salty taste, the green onion adds, the flavor of onion? The pork adds flavor and depth and the egg just tastes good. A delicious Chinese dish with tons of flavor and great texture, always served hot but not too hot, and cheap. What more could you ask for?

Rating: 5 out of 5

I will post pictures of the noodle shop later.

Picture was pulled off of my instagram account @matthewrautionmaa.