There's an old saying in Shanxi, a province in north China: “China has the best flour-based foods in the world, and Shanxi has the best flour-based foods in China.” While noodles are a staple across the country, in Shanxi they truly take center stage. Here, flour is transformed through a variety of techniques — pulling, tearing, cutting, rolling, or shaving — into countless shapes and textures. These noodles are then cooked in diverse ways, whether boiled, stir-fried, or flash-fried, and paired with an array of rich toppings and ingredients. And of course, no bowl is complete without a splash of Shanxi’s signature vinegar — the final touch for the most authentic taste.