Cuisine : Tsuiwan - steps to prepare this Mongolian noodle soup

 

Tsuiwan, also known as "Tsuivan," is a traditional Mongolian noodle dish that is hearty and flavorful. It's made with homemade noodles, meat (usually mutton or beef), and vegetables. Here is a detailed recipe for preparing Tsuivan:

Ingredients:

#### Noodles:

- 3 cups all-purpose flour

- 1 cup water

- ½ tsp salt

- 1-2 tbsp oil for frying

#### Meat and Vegetables:

- 1 lb (450g) mutton or beef, cut into small pieces

- 2 medium onions, sliced

- 2 carrots, julienned

- 1 small head of cabbage, shredded

- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced

- 2 tbsp vegetable oil

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Soy sauce (optional)

- Water or broth for cooking

### Instructions:

#### Noodle Preparation:

1. **Mix the Dough**: In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Gradually add water while mixing until a dough forms.

2. **Knead the Dough**: Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface until it becomes smooth and elastic, about 10-15 minutes.

3. **Rest the Dough**: Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.

4. **Roll and Cut Noodles**: Divide the dough into smaller portions and roll each portion into a thin sheet (about 1/8 inch thick). Cut the sheet into long, thin strips to make noodles.

#### Meat and Vegetable Preparation:

1. **Heat the Oil**: In a large, deep skillet or pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.

2. **Cook the Meat**: Add the meat to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides.

3. **Add Onions and Garlic**: Add the sliced onions and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until the onions are translucent.

4. **Add Carrots and Cabbage**: Add the julienned carrots and shredded cabbage to the skillet. Stir and cook for a few minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.

#### Combining Noodles with Meat and Vegetables:

1. **Add Noodles**: Lay the prepared noodles on top of the meat and vegetable mixture.

2. **Add Liquid**: Pour enough water or broth into the skillet to just cover the noodles. If using soy sauce, add it now.

3. **Cook the Noodles**: Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and cook until the noodles are tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed, about 10-15 minutes.

4. **Adjust Seasoning**: Season with salt and pepper to taste. You can add more soy sauce if desired.

#### Finishing:

1. **Mix Thoroughly**: Once the noodles are cooked and the liquid is absorbed, gently stir the mixture to combine the noodles, meat, and vegetables evenly.

2. **Serve**: Serve Tsuivan hot. It can be enjoyed as a main dish and is often accompanied by a side of pickles or a light salad.

### Tips:

- **Noodle Variations**: You can use store-bought noodles if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

- **Meat Variations**: While mutton is traditional, you can use beef, chicken, or even pork based on your preference.

- **Vegetable Variations**: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.

Enjoy making and eating this delicious and comforting Mongolian noodle dish!