How to build a Chinese noodle soup — a Fuchsia Dunlop recipe

Chinese noodle soup is a classic comfort food that can be enjoyed all year round. With its rich and savory broth, tender noodles, and flavorful toppings, it’s no wonder this dish has become a beloved staple in Chinese cuisine. If you’re looking to recreate this delicious soup at home, look no further than this recipe from acclaimed chef and author Fuchsia Dunlop.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz. dried wheat noodles or fresh egg noodles
• 1 tbsp. cooking oil
• 3-4 oz. minced pork
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, sliced
• 1 scallion, sliced
• 1 tbsp. Shaoxing wine
• 6 cups chicken or pork stock
• 1 tbsp. soy sauce
• Salt, to taste
• Ground white pepper, to taste
• Cilantro leaves, chopped, to garnish

Instructions:

1. If using dried wheat noodles, prepare them according to package instructions. If using fresh egg noodles, rinse them briefly in hot water and drain well.
2. Heat the cooking oil in a wok or large pot over medium heat. Add the minced pork and cook, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned and fragrant.
3. Add the garlic, ginger, and scallion to the wok or pot and stir-fry for another minute or until fragrant.
4. Add the Shaoxing wine and stir-fry for another minute or until the alcohol has evaporated.
5. Pour in the chicken or pork stock and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Add the soy sauce, salt, and ground white pepper to the soup and adjust seasoning to taste.
7. To serve, divide the cooked noodles among four bowls and ladle the hot soup over them. Garnish with chopped cilantro leaves and serve immediately.

Tips:

• For added flavor and texture, consider adding some of your favorite toppings to the soup, such as sliced bok choy, mushrooms, or sliced chili peppers.
• If you prefer a vegetarian version of the soup, omit the meat and use vegetable stock instead of chicken or pork stock.
• To make the soup ahead of time, cook the noodles separately and store them in a container with a little oil to prevent sticking. Reheat the noodles and soup separately and assemble just before serving.

In conclusion, with this simple recipe from Fuchsia Dunlop, you can easily create a delicious and hearty Chinese noodle soup in the comfort of your own home. By following these steps and adding your favorite toppings, you can customize the soup to your liking and enjoy a warm and satisfying meal anytime.