Eating in China
Generated illustration of a small serving of Yanjing jiajia noodles with narrow flat noodles, cooked pork and scallions in golden broth

Yanjing jiajia noodles

盐井加加面Yán jǐng jiā jiā miàn

Noodles from Yanjing in Markam, Tibet, served in tiny portions with pork topping and broth, then topped up repeatedly. Jia means adding more.

Heat
Region
Tibet
Type
Staple foods
Street food
Order in Chinese

At the table

How to enjoy it

Eat the cooked noodles and topping, then ask for more if wanted. Say “不用加了,谢谢” when full. Confirm the serving and charging arrangement before ordering. Add chili sauce only to taste.

A useful check

The broth may be hot. Buckwheat noodles may also contain wheat or barley, so do not assume they are gluten-free. Some dough recipes include egg. This version contains pork.

How it may vary

Buckwheat, wheat or barley flour may be used; egg and alkaline water occur in dough recipes. Pork topping and broth seasoning differ, and chili sauce may be separate.

GET TO KNOW THE DISH

What goes into it?

Explore some key ingredients below. Preparations may use additional seasonings and ingredients.

Buckwheat, wheat or barley flour may be used; egg and alkaline water occur in dough recipes. Pork topping and broth seasoning differ, and chili sauce may be separate.

Recipes vary by restaurant.

How does it taste?

Savory pork broth with a gentle grain flavor; chili sauce changes the heat.

Chili heat
Texture
Slender, springy noodles and small pieces of cooked pork.
How it’s made
Handmade noodles are boiled and warmed in broth, then finished with cooked pork and scallions. Pork-bone broth may be seasoned with star anise and cassia.

Buckwheat, wheat or barley flour may be used; egg and alkaline water occur in dough recipes. Pork topping and broth seasoning differ, and chili sauce may be separate.

A CONNECTION TO PLACE

Origin & regional roots

Explore regional food

Its origins are linked to Tibet.

About this regional connection

Tibet: Yanjing, Naxi Township, Markam County, Chamdo. Stalls now also appear beyond the town.

Ask if they have it first

ASK IF IT'S AVAILABLE

请问你们有盐井加加面吗?

Do you have this item?

A LITTLE SOMETHING TO READ

Story & history

A meal of small refills

In Yanjing, a few noodles at a time invite repeated refills. Some dining rooms use little stones to count portions, making the meal sociable. The custom does not require joining an eating contest.

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