Dan Dan Noodles Recipe

12 dried shiitake mushrooms, soaked in warm water for 20 minutes or until softened

6 tablespoons soy sauce

1/2 tablespoons tahini, or Chinese sesame paste (available in Asian specialty stores)

3 tablespoons chinese black vinegar, or good-quality balsamic vinegar

6 tablespoons chili oil

2 tablespoons sesame oil

1 tablespoon sugar

1 1/2 teaspoons sichuan peppercorns

3 cups dried chinese egg noodles, cooked according to package directions, 2/3 cup cooking water reserved

1 tablespoon peanut oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon ginger, minced

1 bunch green onions, white and green parts chopped

1 cup tofu, smoked, chopped finely

1 tablespoon chinese rice wine, or dry sherry

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 cup peanuts, dry-roasted, chopped finely

chinese parsley (kinchay), to garnish, optional