During my trip to Taiwan in November of 2016, I had the opportunity to try the three varieties of the new Xiao Ban Mian line. I remember this one in particular; it was really quite good and I only got a bite or two of it – my sister actually scarfed this one down quickly! Now, back in the controlled environment of my noodle lab (sounds more amazing than it is, really), I’m really excited to give this a try. Let’s check it out!
Xiao Ban Mian Traditional Shallot & Onion Oil Noodle – Taiwan
Here’s the back of the package (click to enlarge). Looks to be meat free but check for yourself. To prepare, add noodles to a pot of boiling water and cook for 6-7 minutes. Drain. Add noodles, sachet contents and 2 tablespoons of water to a bowl. Stir and enjoy!
Ther packages contain three servings. This is one of the servings of noodles.
A dry sachet.
Shallot? Onion? Neither? It’s granular.
A liquid sachet.
Has a nice kind of onion scent.
Finished (click to enlarge). Added fried onion, cucumber, pork and chilli flake. The noodles have a perfect gauge and chew. Furthermore, they come off extremely premium. The flavor is out of this world – Just a perfect marriage of shallot and sesame – goes together very well. There’s the perfect amount of flavor to this dish – not too salty, not bland. A perfect balance. I’m definitely thrilled to have tried this – mind blowing stuff! 5.0 out of 5.0 stars. EAN bar code 4717011150278.
A tour of the factory in Taichung where these noodles are manufactured.