Spicy Shrimp Paste Pulled Noodles

These viral pulled noodles feature a savory shrimp paste filling encased in chewy, hand-stretched dumpling wrappers, finished with a sizzling chili oil aromatic.

Ingredients

• 1 pack dumpling wrappers
• 200 g fresh shrimp paste
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tbsp white sesame seeds
• 1 tbsp minced garlic
• 3 tbsp cooking oil
• 1 tbsp light soy sauce
• 1 tbsp vinegar
• 1 tbsp roasted peanuts
• 1 tbsp dried shrimp
• 1 handful fresh cilantro

Instructions

1. 1Prepare the wrapper

   

   Take a round dumpling wrapper and gently dab water onto half of its edge. This moisture acts as the adhesive to ensure the wrapper seals securely around the shrimp paste filling.

   Tip: Dont use too much water, as it can make the wrapper soggy and difficult to handle.
2. 2Add the shrimp paste

   

   Using a pastry bag, squeeze a generous line of fresh shrimp paste into the center of the prepared dumpling wrapper. Keep the filling centered to make folding easier.

   Tip: A pastry bag provides the most control for getting a consistent, even line of paste.
3. 3Seal the dumpling

   

   Fold the dumpling wrapper in half over the shrimp paste filling. Pinch and press the edges firmly together along the entire seal to ensure the dumpling is completely closed and wont burst during cooking.

   Tip: Ensure there are no air bubbles trapped inside for the best texture.
4. 4Stretch into a noodle

   

   Gently pull and stretch the sealed dumpling from both ends with your hands. Work slowly to elongate it into a long, wide, and flat noodle shape without tearing the wrapper.

   Tip: The stretching motion creates the signature chewy texture of pulled noodles.
5. 5Boil the noodles

   

   Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil. Carefully drop in the prepared shrimp paste noodles and cook over medium heat for three to four minutes until they are fully cooked through.

   Tip: Do not overcrowd the pot; cook in batches if necessary to prevent sticking.
6. 6Transfer to bowl

   

   Once the noodles are cooked and appear opaque, use chopsticks to lift them out of the boiling water. Transfer them immediately into a serving bowl for seasoning.

   Tip: Shake off excess water to ensure the sauce coats the noodles properly.
7. 7Season the noodles

   

   Place the cooked shrimp paste noodles into a serving bowl. Add one spoonful of chili powder, one spoonful of white sesame seeds, and one spoonful of minced garlic directly on top of the noodles to prepare for the oil tempering.

   Tip: Make sure your aromatics are piled in the center so the hot oil hits them all evenly.
8. 8Temper with hot oil

   

   Heat oil until it is smoking hot. Carefully pour the hot oil directly over the chili powder, sesame seeds, and garlic in the bowl. The heat will immediately release the fragrance and create a rich, spicy oil base for the noodles.

   Tip: Be cautious when pouring the oil, as it will sizzle vigorously upon contact with the spices.
9. 9Add final seasonings and garnishes

   

   After tempering the spices, add one spoonful of light soy sauce and one spoonful of vinegar to the bowl. Garnish with a generous portion of roasted peanuts, dried shrimp, and fresh cilantro to add texture and brightness to the dish.

   Tip: The acidity from the vinegar balances the richness of the oil and the savory shrimp paste.
10. 10Mix and serve

    

    Use a pair of chopsticks to thoroughly toss the noodles with the spicy oil, soy sauce, vinegar, and garnishes. Ensure every noodle is evenly coated in the flavorful red sauce before serving.

    Tip: Mix gently to keep the shrimp paste noodles intact while ensuring full flavor coverage.

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