Arteflame Grilled Zhajiangmian Recipe

Introduction:

Zhajiangmian is a classic Chinese dish featuring wheat noodles topped with a savory, umami-rich minced meat sauce. Cooking the sauce components on the Arteflame grill enhances the flavor with a touch of smokiness, creating a unique twist on this beloved comfort food.

---

Ingredients

For the Noodles:

• 1 pound fresh wheat noodles (or dried noodles, cooked and drained)

For the Sauce:

• 1/2 pound ground pork or beef
• 1/4 cup yellow soybean paste (or hoisin sauce as an alternative)
• 2 tbsp sweet bean sauce (Tianmianjiang)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine or dry sherry
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp sugar
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tsp grated ginger

For the Toppings:

• 1 cup julienned cucumber
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• 1/4 cup sliced green onions
• 1/2 cup blanched bean sprouts (optional)

---

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Light the Arteflame grill using vegetable oil-soaked napkins under firewood. Allow the grill to heat for about 20 minutes.
2. Grease the flat cooktop with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.

---

Step 2: Cook the Meat

1. Add the ground pork or beef to the medium-heat zone of the flat cooktop.
2. Break the meat into small pieces and cook for 4-5 minutes until browned.

---

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

1. Push the cooked meat to a cooler zone on the grill.
2. In the medium-heat zone, add garlic and ginger, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Stir in the yellow soybean paste, sweet bean sauce, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, sesame oil, and sugar.
4. Combine the sauce with the meat and simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick and glossy.

Optional, you can also use a small skillet.

---

Step 4: Cook the Noodles

1. While the sauce simmers, cook the wheat noodles in boiling water according to package instructions.
2. Drain the noodles and toss them lightly with sesame oil to prevent sticking.

Optional: grill the noodles briefly on the cooktop for added crunch and flavor.

---

Step 5: Assemble the Zhajiangmian

1. Divide the cooked noodles into bowls.
2. Spoon the grilled meat sauce generously over the noodles.
3. Top with julienned cucumber, shredded carrots, green onions, and bean sprouts.

---

Tips for Perfect Zhajiangmian

1. High-Quality Paste: Use authentic yellow soybean paste and sweet bean sauce for the best flavor.
2. Even Heat: Keep the sauce on a medium-heat zone to avoid burning.
3. Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite fresh vegetables for variety.
4. Prep Ahead: Prepare all toppings before grilling for smooth assembly.

---

Variations

1. Vegetarian Zhajiangmian: Replace meat with diced mushrooms or crumbled tofu.
2. Spicy Zhajiangmian: Add chili paste or chili oil to the sauce for extra heat.
3. Seafood Twist: Use ground shrimp instead of pork or beef.
4. Gluten-Free: Serve with rice noodles or zucchini noodles.
5. Extra Savory: Add a splash of oyster sauce to the meat sauce.

---

Pairings

• Sides: Serve with steamed dumplings or grilled bok choy.
• Drinks: Pair with green tea, iced oolong tea, or a light lager.
• Sauces: Offer extra soy sauce or chili oil for customization.

---

Conclusion

Arteflame Grilled Zhajiangmian combines smoky, savory meat sauce with tender noodles and fresh toppings, creating a hearty and flavorful dish. It’s perfect for outdoor gatherings or a comforting meal with family and friends.