Confused Noodle Broth - Japanese? Thai?

First up let me confess that my knowledge of Japanese food is very limited. I know there is Sushi. And Sashimi. And… that’s it. I did eat out at this Japanese restaurant called Wagamama in London when I was there on work, but just cannot remember what I had! I vaguely remember rice. And chicken. And clearly remember my friend and then-boss NamC expertly wielding a pair of chopsticks to eat her rice and even her soup! I think it’s the chopsticks. She dazzled me with them and I, with my mouth open, just watched her and forgot what I ate! Don't blame me... NamC is that super cool, super stylish, super boss who can teach you a thing or two about everything! :D

Veg Hakka Noodles

This is a super quick noodle recipe that can be turned out in less than 20min and believe me, the ease belies the taste! All you need is a packet of noodles and vegetables of your choice and voila!

Ingredients:
Veg Wholewheat Hakka Noodles - 1 pkt (I used Ching's secret)
Beans - 5to6
Carrots - 1 - cut into thin sticks
Cucumber - 1 - de-seeded and cut into thin strips
Spring onions - 4
Ginger - 1/2 inch - chopped finely
Garlic - 2-3 cloves
Peanuts - a handful
Salt
Black Pepper
Sesame Oil - 1 tsp
Vinegar - 1/2 tsp
Soy sauce - 1 tsp
Green Chilli sauce - 1 tsp
Tomato sauce - 1/2 tsp
Thai Sweet chilli sauce (optional) - 1/2 tsp

In a large, wide pan, bring 10 cups of water to a boil. Add some salt and dunk in the noodles. Cook for 2-3min or till the noodles are al dente and drain them immediately in a colander. Toss the drained noodles in some oil to prevent them from sticking to one another.

In a shallow pan, fry the ginger,garlic and peanuts in some sesame oil and add all the vegetables. Cook for 2 min and add the vinegar and all the sauces along with some salt and pepper. Now toss in the noodles and mix well. Add some more soy or chilli sauce as per taste. Serve hot with a side dish or devour as a meal in itself.