Ingredients

2 servings of noodles of your choice (somen noodles recommended)

For the sauce base:

2 tbsp peanut butter or sesame paste

1 tbsp rice vinegar
2 tbsp soy sauce

1-2 tbsp chilli oil

For the pork mince topping:

200g pork mince
1 tbsp Chinese doubanjiang
1 tbsp Chinese cooking wine (optional)

1 tbsp light soy sauce
1 tsp minced garlic
1 tsp grated ginger

For the soup base:

500ml chicken stock
300ml soy milk

1 tbsp chilli oil (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: In a saucepan, heat the chicken stock and soy milk until it reaches a gentle simmer.

Step 2: Meanwhile, whisk together the peanut butter, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and chilli oil in a bowl to create the sauce base.

Step 3: In a frying pan, add the pork mince (no oil needed as it will release fat) and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon.

Step 4: Stir in minced garlic, grated ginger, doubanjiang, light soy sauce, and Chinese cooking wine if using. Cook for another minute or two, then season to taste and set aside.

Step 5: Cook the noodles according to package instructions. In the last minute, add pak choi to blanch until slightly softened. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.

Step 6: Combine the simmering broth with the peanut butter sauce base. Divide noodles and vegetables into bowls, top with the cooked pork mince, and add optional ramen egg and garnishes like chopped spring onions, sesame seeds, and extra chilli oil.

Tips & Variations

Use sesame paste instead of peanut butter for a more traditional flavor.

Swap pork mince for ground chicken or turkey for a leaner option.

Add a soft-boiled ramen egg for extra richness.

Adjust the amount of chilli oil to control the spice level to your preference.

To make it vegetarian, replace pork with sautéed mushrooms and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.

Storage

Store leftover broth and pork topping separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Cooked noodles are best fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 1 day; reheat broth gently on the stove and warm noodles briefly before serving. Avoid reheating noodles in the broth to prevent sogginess.

FAQs

Can I use other types of noodles for this recipe?

Yes, you can use ramen noodles, soba, udon, or even spaghetti if needed. Just adjust cooking times according to the package instructions.

Is it possible to make this dish vegan?

Yes, replace the pork mince with mushrooms or tofu and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. Also, ensure to use a vegan-friendly soy milk and omit cooking wine or use a vegan substitute if preferred.