Malatang one RMB each. Customers keep the used wooden sticks by their plates, and when a customer finishes eating, the price to pay is determined by counting the number of empty sticks. In the mid-2010s "malatang" shops became popular in North China, especially Beijing. In these shops the ingredients are usually displayed on shelves, and customers pick their desired ingredients into a bowl. Behind the counter the selected ingredients are cooked in a spicy broth, usually at very high temperature for 3–4 minutes. Before serving, "malatang" is typically further seasoned with lots of garlic, black pepper, Sichuan pepper, chili pepper, sesame
Ants climbing a tree include rice vinegar, soy sauce, vegetable oil, sesame oil, scallions, garlic, ginger, and chili paste. To make the "ants", meat is marinated for a short time at room temperature while the noodles are soaked to soften. In a wok, oil is heated until almost smoking. The scallions, garlic, and ginger are cooked slightly in the wok before the marinated meat is added. The softened noodles are added to the wok to soak up the flavor and juices. Dry noodles that have not yet been softened can also be fried in hot oil to add texture to the dish. The noodles