Dan Dan Noodles

1. 1

   Make the noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

2. 2

   Add the noodles, stir and cook until al dente, 2 to 4 minutes.

3. 3

   Drain, then rinse under cold water and transfer to a bowl.

4. 4

   Drizzle with 1 teaspoon sesame oil and toss to coat.

5. 5

   Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat until smoking and add the peanut oil.

6. 6

   Add the ginger, chiles and garlic and stir-fry 30 seconds; add the ground beef and cook, breaking up the meat with a spatula, until browned, 2 to 3 minutes.

7. 7

   Combine the tahini and the remaining 1 teaspoon sesame oil in a small bowl.

8. 8

   Add the cornichons to the wok.

9. 9

   Stir in the tahini mixture, soy sauce, rice wine, vinegar and ground peppercorns; cook until the beef begins to crisp, 2 to 3 more minutes.

10. 10

    Season with white pepper and remove from the heat.

11. 11

    Prepare the toppings: Bring the chicken broth to a boil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.

12. 12

    Combine the chili oil, sesame oil, soy sauce, ground peppercorns and chiles in a small bowl.

13. 13

    Divide the noodles among bowls and sprinkle the beef mixture evenly over each.

14. 14

    Pour the hot broth over the noodles; top with the chili oil mixture, scallions and cilantro.

15. 15

    Photograph by Ralph Smith

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.