🇨🇳 Chinese Cuisine · Drinks

Longjing Tea

Prep

5 mins

Cook

0 mins

Serves

4

Difficulty

Easy

Dragon Well green tea from Hangzhou, flat-panned by hand to stop oxidation, with a fresh chestnut and vegetal note.

Ingredients

  • 600g firm tofu
  • 300g glutinous rice
  • 2 tsp crushed Sichuan peppercorns
  • 1 1/2 tsp doubanjiang (chili bean paste)
  • 2 tbsp toasted sesame oil
  • 200g bean sprouts
  • a handful of fresh chives, chopped
  • toasted sesame seeds, to taste
  • 1 cup chicken stock
  • 1 tsp five-spice powder
  • 2 scallions, chopped
  • a generous spoonful of soy sauce

Instructions

  1. 1

    Combine the egg noodles and water in a saucepan, blender, or pitcher, stirring well.

  2. 2

    Add the white pepper and toasted sesame seeds, stirring gently so their flavor infuses the mixture.

  3. 3

    Heat gently over low heat (or blend, or steep, depending on the drink) until well combined and fragrant, about 0 mins.

  4. 4

    Strain through a fine sieve to remove any solids, if needed.

  5. 5

    Sweeten to taste with Shaoxing wine, adjusting gradually until the balance feels right.

  6. 6

    Chill in the refrigerator, or pour straight over ice, depending on whether it is served cold or hot.

Tips

Serve in a chilled glass for the most refreshing result on a hot day.

Make a big batch and keep it chilled in the fridge — the flavor often deepens after a few hours.

If serving warm, gently reheat just before pouring rather than letting it come to a boil.