Jianli fish noodles are a unique specialty of Jianli County in Hubei. These noodles are not made from wheat or rice but from fish meat and starch, resulting in noodles with a distinct texture and rich umami flavor.
Jianli fish noodles are a remarkable example of Chinese culinary ingenuity. The people of Jianli, located in the Jianghan Plain where fish is abundant, developed this technique of making noodles entirely from fish as a way to preserve and enjoy the bounty of local waters. The noodles have a distinctive smooth, slightly slippery texture that is unlike any wheat or rice noodle. They are traditionally served during the Lunar New Year and are considered a premium local specialty. The technique of making fish noodles has been designated as an intangible cultural heritage.