At the table
Lift the fine noodles with chopsticks and use a spoon for the broth and diced topping. Let the soup cool before eating.
Contains wheat. Meat-topped versions are not vegetarian; a vegetable topping alone does not confirm the broth or cooking fat. Ask about chili and other seasonings.
Toppings vary: lamb or other meat may accompany potato, while tomato or celery can flavour the sour broth. Vegetable saozi is a separate option. This entry illustrates a meat version; confirm the topping, broth, cooking fat and chili when ordering.
GET TO KNOW THE DISH
What goes into it?
Explore some key ingredients below. Preparations may use additional seasonings and ingredients.
Toppings can include diced meat, potato and tomato, with other additions varying by preparation.
Typical ingredients
Recipes vary by restaurant.
How does it taste?
Savory meat and vegetable topping.
- Chili heat
- Heat not recorded
- Texture
- Long, fine and resilient strands.
- How it’s made
- Mix the seed powder and alkaline water into flour, roll thinly, cut and boil.
Toppings can include diced meat, potato and tomato, with other additions varying by preparation.
A CONNECTION TO PLACE
Origin & regional roots
Associated with Ningxia.
Ask if they have it first
请问你们有中宁蒿子面吗？
Do you have this item?
A LITTLE SOMETHING TO READ
Story & history
Fine strands for family occasions
This account describes a tradition or story, rather than an established historical fact.
In Zhongning, ground sha-hao seeds are worked into wheat dough with alkaline water. The dough is rolled thin and cut into fine, long strands. The noodles feature at family celebrations and when welcoming guests; their long shape carries wishes for a lasting, happy life.