Growing up, longevity noodles were always part of our birthday tradition, and we still do it to this day. We would have long noodles to symbolize a long life and good luck, and it is one of those meaningful traditions that always makes the meal feel extra special.
These Longevity Noodles with Shrimp are my absolute favorite version. They are tossed in a rich, dark sauce that is savory, slightly sweet, and full of depth thanks to ingredients like oyster sauce, sesame oil, and dark soy sauce. The shrimp cooks quickly, the noodles stay chewy, and everything comes together in under 20 minutes. And if you like a little heat, chili crunch takes it completely over the top.
Longevity noodles are often served during birthdays and Lunar New Year, and tradition says you should never cut the noodles. The longer the noodle, the better, because it represents a long, full life.
Why You’ll Love These Longevity Noodles
- Quick and easy (ready in about 20 minutes)
- Packed with flavor from dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil
- Perfect for celebrations like birthdays and Lunar New Year
- The texture is unreal chewy noodles + tender shrimp = best combo
- Customizable spice level (chili crunch can be added at the end so it’s kid friendly)
- Better than takeout, but way simpler than you’d think
When to Make Longevity Noodles with Shrimp
These noodles are perfect for:
- Lunar New Year celebrations
- Birthday dinners
- Family gatherings or special occasions
- A fun “better than takeout” weeknight meal
- When you want something fast but still impressive
A Quick Note on Cooking the Noodles
One of the biggest tips I can give you is don’t overcook the noodles.
I only boil mine for about 2 minutes, then drain and rinse with cold water. This helps stop the cooking process so they don’t turn mushy or break apart. They finish cooking in the pan when everything gets tossed together with the sauce.
And bonus: keeping them long is part of the meaning behind the dish.
FAQs
What are longevity noodles?
Longevity noodles are long noodles traditionally served during birthdays and Lunar New Year to symbolize long life and good fortune. They are often labeled as Yi Mein or sometimes called fried noodles at Asian grocery stores.
Where can I buy longevity noodles (Yi Mein)?
You can usually find longevity noodles at an Asian market in the noodle aisle. Look for packaging that says Yi Mein, E-Fu noodles, or fried noodles. Some online retailers also carry them, but Asian markets tend to have the best options.
Why are you not supposed to cut longevity noodles?
Traditionally, longevity noodles represent long life, so cutting them is seen as cutting the symbolism of good fortune. The longer the noodles stay, the better.
Can I use a different protein instead of shrimp?
Yes. Longevity noodles are delicious with chicken, thinly sliced beef, pork, or even tofu. Just cook your protein first, set it aside, then toss it back in at the end.
What is the difference between soy sauce and dark soy sauce?
Regular soy sauce adds salty flavor, while dark soy sauce is thicker, slightly sweeter, and adds the deep color that makes longevity noodles look rich and glossy. Both are important for the best flavor.
What to Serve with Longevity Noodles
These noodles are a full meal on their own, but they’re also amazing served with:
- dumplings or potstickers
- egg rolls
- cucumber salad
- sesame chicken
- scallion pancakes
- hot and sour soup
Longevity Noodles with Shrimp
Ingredients
- 7 oz fried noodles / longevity noodles (Yi Mein)
- 4 tbsp oil divided
- 1 lb shrimp peeled and deveined
- 5 green onions cut into 1-inch pieces (white and green parts separated)
- 6 shiitake mushrooms sliced
- 2 tsp soy sauce
- 2 tsp dark soy sauce
- 1 1/2 tsp oyster sauce
- 1 tsp honey
- 1/2 tsp sesame oil
- 1/4 tsp white pepper
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- Chili crunch for topping
Method
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, sesame oil, white pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Set aside.
- Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a wok or skillet. Cook shrimp for about 1 minute per side, then remove and set aside.
- Boil noodles for 2 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water, then drain again.
- Add remaining 2 tablespoons oil to the pan. Sauté shiitake mushrooms and the white parts of the green onion for about 1 minute.
- Add green onion tops, shrimp, noodles, and sauce. Toss everything together for 30 seconds until fully coated.
- Serve immediately and top with chili crunch.
What did you think?