Slow Cooker Dan Dan Noodles : Savory & Comforting

Introduction

When cold weather calls for something bold and warming, there’s no better comfort food than a steaming bowl of slow cooker Dan Dan noodles. Traditionally a Sichuan street food staple, Dan Dan noodles are known for their spicy, nutty, and savory sauce that clings to chewy noodles, layered with seasoned ground pork and aromatic spices.

This slow cooker version brings that signature flavor profile into a busy home kitchen. With just a bit of prep in the morning, you can come home to a deeply flavorful meal that tastes like it took hours to make — because it did, without any of the hassle.

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Ingredients

For the Pork Base:
1 lb ground pork
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce or chili oil
1/2 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder

For the Sauce:
1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 teaspoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon chili oil (adjust to taste)
1 cup chicken broth

Other Ingredients:
8 oz dried Chinese noodles (or spaghetti if substituting)
1/4 cup chopped scallions
1/4 cup chopped peanuts
Optional: bok choy, spinach, or napa cabbage for added greens

Instructions

Heat the oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground pork and cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes. Stir in garlic, ginger, soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin, chili sauce, and five-spice. Cook for another 2 minutes to let the flavors develop.

Transfer the cooked pork mixture into your slow cooker. In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, hoisin, sesame oil, brown sugar, chili oil, and chicken broth until smooth. Pour over the pork in the slow cooker and stir to combine.

Cover and cook on low for 4–6 hours or high for 2–3 hours.

During the last 15 minutes, cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and add to the slow cooker. Stir to coat the noodles well in the sauce.

Add chopped greens if using and let them wilt in the heat of the dish for about 5 minutes before serving.

Serve hot, topped with chopped scallions and peanuts.

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Nutrition Information (per serving)

Calories: 540 kcal
Protein: 25 g
Carbohydrates: 45 g
Fat: 28 g
Sodium: 980 mg

Tips for Success

For extra depth of flavor, sauté your spices (ginger, garlic, five-spice) briefly before slow cooking. Prefer more spice? Add a spoonful of doubanjiang (fermented chili bean paste). For low-carb, use zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a simple cucumber salad to balance the richness. Pair with hot jasmine tea or a light lager. Great for meal prep—just keep the sauce separate from the noodles until reheating.

Cultural Insight: A Modern Take on a Chinese Classic

Dan Dan noodles originated in Sichuan, China, known for its bold, spicy cuisine. Traditionally served as street food, the dish gets its name from the “dan dan,” or carrying pole, street vendors used. This slow cooker version maintains the iconic flavors but adapts the process to suit busy lives without losing authenticity.

Variations

Use ground turkey or chicken instead of pork for a leaner dish. Add a spoonful of tahini or coconut milk for a creamy twist. Want vegetarian? Replace meat with mushrooms or crumbled tofu and add extra greens.

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FAQ

Can I make this dish less spicy?
Absolutely! Use less chili oil and omit the chili garlic sauce. Add extra peanut butter or a splash of cream for a milder version.

What noodles work best?
Chinese wheat noodles or ramen-style noodles are ideal. You can also use spaghetti in a pinch.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, freeze the meat sauce separately from the noodles for best texture. Reheat gently and combine when ready to eat.

External Links

Understanding Chinese Five-Spice
How to Use Your Slow Cooker for Asian Dishes
Traditional Dan Dan Noodles Recipe
Guide to Asian Noodles

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