Easy Taiwanese Cold Noodles with Peanut Sauce (Liang Mian / 涼麵)

Step 1

Cook the noodles according to the instruction on the package. Make sure you don't overcook the noodles. It should be "al dente" (firm to bite)

Step 2

Rinse the cooked noodles under cold running water to stop the cooking process. Cover with a cling wrap and refrigerate in the fridge to chill the noodles if you want

Step 3

Halve the cucumber lengthwise and then use a spoon to scoop out the seeds. Halve the cucumber again horizontally then cut into strips

Step 4

Mix all ingredients for dressing in a mixing bowl. Whisk to combine everything. The amount of ingredients for dressing is just a reference. Feel free to add more or reduce some according to your preference. The sauce should be savory, tangy, a hint of spicyness (if you use chili oil) and sweetness

Step 5

I toss the cooked noodles with the dressing directly and then top with cucumber, toasted sesame seeds and garlic bits. OR you can portion the noodles and cucumber into an individual serving bowl. Spoon some sauce on the side of the bowl. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and garlic bits. Everyone can mix their own dressing with the noodles

Step 6

The dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to one week. All you need to do is to cook some noodles and add some veggies when you want some liang mian