Hand - Pulled Noodles
handpull.gif (333 bytes)
(la  mian)

Step 1
Vigorous kneading makes
the dough soft and pliable.

knead.jpg (17073 bytes)		 Step 2
A dab of oil before the first twist
will keep the strands apart.

twist.jpg (14195 bytes)
Step 3
Pulling the twisted strands
begins to form the noodles.

pull.jpg (19246 bytes)		 Step 4
Folding in half several times
multiples the numbers of strands.

rope.jpg (18631 bytes)
Step 5
In a final pull, the strands separate
into thin noodles as if by magic.

noodles.jpg (27117 bytes)		 Step 6
In the same motion, they go
directly into a pot of boiling water.

pullnod.jpg (21837 bytes)

A large bowl of soup noodles, with flavorings of your choice, ranging from a spicy curry to a simple topping of cilantro, costs RMB 3.5 (US$ 0.42).  This is the single most expensive breakfast item I found.  But freshly-made noodles are worth the cost -- nothing can compare!