The Ultimate Guide to Shrimp Roe Noodles: 10 Irresistible Ways to Cook This Umami-Rich Delicacy

Shrimp roe noodles, known as har mee or xia zhi mian (虾子面), are a beloved ingredient in Asian cuisine. These thin, springy egg noodles are coated with dried shrimp roe, offering a deep, briny umami flavor that elevates any dish. Once a luxurious treat, they’re now widely available and incredibly versatile. Here are ten delicious ways to transform these golden strands into unforgettable meals.

1. Classic Dry-Tossed Shrimp Roe Noodles

The simplest preparation lets the noodles shine. Cook the noodles until al dente, then toss immediately with a premium oyster sauce, a dash of sesame oil, a splash of fried shallot oil, and a sprinkle of finely chopped scallions. The residual heat releases the aroma of the shrimp roe. Top with a spoonful of extra dried shrimp roe for an intense flavor punch.

Key Tip: Use just enough sauce to coat—never drown the noodles.

2. Supreme Broth Noodle Soup

Create a clear, profound broth using dried scallops, pork bones, and chicken. Poach fresh prawns or shrimp in the broth for extra sweetness. Cook the shrimp roe noodles separately and place them in a bowl. Ladle the hot broth over, and garnish with the poached seafood, choy sum, and a slice of fish cake. The broth complements rather than competes with the noodle’s natural flavor.

3. Stir-Fried with XO Sauce

Elevate your stir-fry game. Soak the noodles briefly to loosen, then stir-fry in a blazing hot wok with a generous spoonful of XO sauce (a luxurious condiment made with dried seafood, ham, and chilies). Add julienned bell peppers, onions, and bean sprouts for crunch. The complex, spicy umami of XO sauce pairs perfectly with the shrimp roe.

4. Lobster or Crab Cream Sauce

Indulge in decadence. Prepare a rich cream sauce with a base of sautéed shallots, white wine, and the shells of lobster or crab for depth. Add cream and Parmesan, then fold in the cooked shrimp roe noodles. Finish with fresh tarragon or dill and chunks of the cooked shellfish. A fusion dish that marries Eastern and Western luxury.

5. Cold Noodle Salad with Citrus Dressing

Perfect for warm weather. Cook the noodles, rinse in cold water, and chill. Create a bright dressing with lime juice, fish sauce, a touch of palm sugar, minced ginger, and chili. Toss the cold noodles with the dressing, fresh herbs (mint, cilantro, Thai basil), and toppings like shredded poached chicken, crushed peanuts, and pickled vegetables. Refreshing and layered with flavor.

6. Clay Pot "煲仔" Noodles

A comforting one-pot meal. In a clay pot or heavy saucepan, layer blanched bok choy, sliced Chinese mushrooms, and marinated pork belly or chicken. Add par-cooked shrimp roe noodles and a savory mixture of soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and stock. Cover and simmer until the ingredients are cooked and the noodles develop a slight crispy bottom ("kot" or crust). Garnish with ginger and scallions.

7. "Dan Dan" Style Spicy Sesame Noodles

A Sichuan-inspired twist. Mix a fiery, nutty sauce with Chinese sesame paste (or tahini), chili oil, Sichuan peppercorn powder, soy sauce, and a touch of black vinegar. Toss with the cooked noodles and a splash of the noodle water to emulsify. Top with minced pork stir-fried with ya cai (pickled vegetables) and crushed peanuts. Spicy, numbing, and utterly addictive.

8. Seafood Medley "Lo Mein"

Celebrate the ocean. Quickly stir-fry a mix of scallops, squid rings, and prawns with garlic and ginger. Add pre-boiled shrimp roe noodles and a light sauce of superior soy sauce and a splash of Shaoxing wine. Toss on high heat to combine. Finish with snow peas and a drizzle of scallion oil. Quick, elegant, and packed with varied textures.

9. Truffle-Infused Aglio e Olio

An Italian-Asian fusion. Use the classic garlic-and-oil technique. Gently fry sliced garlic and red pepper flakes in extra virgin olive oil until fragrant. Add the cooked noodles and a generous amount of finely grated Parmesan. Off the heat, stir through a few drops of truffle oil and a handful of parsley. The earthiness of truffle marries surprisingly well with the marine notes of the shrimp roe.

10. Crispy "Noodle Nest" with Topping

A stunning presentation. Take a nest of dry noodles and gently pan-fry in a non-stick skillet with a little oil until golden and crispy on one side. Flip carefully to form a flat "nest." Prepare a luxurious topping separately—such as braised abalone and mushrooms in oyster sauce, or stir-fried shredded duck with hoisin—and ladle it over the crispy nest. The contrast between the crunchy base and saucy topping is exceptional.

Pro Tips for Perfect Shrimp Roe Noodles Every Time:

• Don't Overcook: These noodles are delicate. Follow package instructions, but start testing 1-2 minutes early. They should be springy to the bite (al dente).

• Rinsing: For soup or cold dishes, rinse under cold water after boiling to stop cooking and remove excess starch. For stir-fries or dry dishes, simply drain—the residual starch helps sauce cling.

• Toasting (Optional): For an extra layer of flavor, you can dry-toast the uncooked noodles in a pan for a minute before boiling. This deepens the nutty, shrimpy aroma.

• Balance is Key: Shrimp roe is savory and potent. Pair it with clean, sweet, or fresh elements (like vegetables, seafood, or citrus) to balance the intensity.

• Storage: Keep unopened packages in a cool, dry place. Once opened, seal tightly and use within a few months for optimal freshness.

From humble street food to gourmet creations, shrimp roe noodles offer a world of culinary possibilities. Their unique savory depth makes them a standout ingredient that can anchor a simple weeknight dinner or become the star of a celebratory feast. So, grab a pack and let your creativity—and your taste buds—dive into the delicious world of umami.

Made in Hong Kong

Net Weight 16oz