There’s nothing quite like a good bowl of noodles to chase away the stress of a busy day. And if you’re looking for something that packs a real punch, look no further than the Cry Baby Noodles recipe. Named for the heat factor, this recipe is not for the faint of heart. But if you’re a fan of spicy noodles with a kick that’ll make your taste buds sing, this one is definitely worth a try.
What are Cry Baby Noodles
The bright red color of cry baby noodles should give you a good indication that they are spicy. Typically when the color is bright, it means that these noodles were likely prepared with a very hot chili powder known as ‘ghost pepper’. For those who are unfamiliar with ghost pepper, it is one of the hottest peppers in the world and measures over a million on the scoville heat scale!
What makes cry baby noodles stand out is the fact that the noodles are hand-pulled. This means that the dough is kneaded and stretched by hand until long, thin noodles are formed. The noodles are then boiled just before they are ready to be served. At this point, the noodles are typically drizzled with sesame oil, soy sauce, garlic, and Sichuan peppercorns. Finally, the chefs add a hefty amount of the ghost pepper powder, tossing the noodles until everything is well combined.
If you’re not familiar with Sichuan peppercorns, they are the spice responsible for the numbing and tingling sensation in Sichuan cuisine. When combined with the heat from the ghost pepper, this makes for an unusual and unique flavor experience.
Cry baby noodles are best known for their over-the-top spiciness, but they are also famous for the theatricality around making them. In Chinese restaurants, the noodle-making process is often done in front of customers, so that they can see how the noodles are kneaded and pulled. This whole process is a sight to behold, and an experience that cannot be replicated on your own.
Cooking instructions
The Heat:
As mentioned, the Cry Baby Noodles recipe is all about the heat. The recipe calls for three tablespoons of chili oil, which might sound like an insane amount, but trust me, it’s worth it. The heat is nicely balanced with the other ingredients, including soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic.
The Noodles:
The type of noodles you use is totally up to you. Some people prefer egg noodles while others prefer ramen. In this recipe, you can use any type of noodles of your choice. The noodles should be cooked according to the instructions on the package. Once the noodles are cooked, put them under cold running water for a few seconds.
The Vegetables:
The Cry Baby Noodles recipe also includes some veggies to help balance out the heat. You can use whatever veggies you like, but I recommend going with some shredded carrots, sliced bell peppers, and chopped scallions. These veggies will add a nice crunch and freshness to the dish.
The Garnishes:
The final touches of the Cry Baby Noodles recipe come in the form of garnishes. You can top your noodles with some cilantro or some sesame seeds for an added touch of flavor. I personally love adding a fried egg to the top of my Cry Baby Noodles. The yolk adds a nice creaminess to the dish that balances out the heat.
Tips for Making Perfect Cry Baby Noodles:
Before you try the Cry Baby Noodles recipe, here are a few tips that might be helpful:
- Be sure to have all of your ingredients ready before you start cooking.
- Don’t skimp on the chili oil. It might seem like a lot, but it’s what gives these noodles their heat.
- If you can’t handle too much heat, reduce the amount of chili oil you use.
- Cook the noodles according to the instructions on their package.
- Don’t overcook the vegetables. You want them to be crunchy, not mushy.
If you’re looking for a dish that’s packed with spicy flavors and will leave you satisfied, then look no further than the Cry Baby Noodles recipe. With just a few ingredients, you can make a bowl of mouth-watering noodles that will leave you sweating and wanting more. Don’t be afraid to get creative with the vegetables you use or the garnishes you add. After all, this dish is all about satisfying your cravings and enjoying yourself. So, go ahead and give this recipe a try. Your taste buds will thank you!