Soul-Soothing Spicy Garlic Noodle Bowl

After a long, exhausting day in corporate banking, there’s nothing more comforting than a warm, flavorful bowl of homemade noodles for me. This dish is not just food—it’s therapy in a bowl, packed with rich broth, aromatic chilli oil, and perfectly balanced textures. Here’s how you can create this magic in your own kitchen. Ingredients: 1 egg 2 cups chicken broth 1 serving of your favorite noodles Your choice of vegetables (bok choy, mushrooms, or carrots work great) For the chili garlic oil: 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped ½ teaspoon dried chili flakes 1 teaspoon oyster sauce 1 teaspoon soy sauce 4 teaspoons olive oil (or any neutral oil) 1 slice fresh ginger 1 star anise 1 clove Instructions: Boil the Egg – Place an egg in a pot of water and bring it to a boil. Let it cook to your preferred doneness (7-8 minutes for soft-boiled, 10-12 minutes for hard-boiled). Once done, transfer to cold water and let it sit. Prepare the Broth & Noodles – In a saucepan, bring 2 cups of chicken broth to a boil. Add your favorite vegetables, letting them cook just enough to retain their crunch. Separately, boil your noodles but be mindful not to overcook them—al dente is key. Drain and set aside. Make the Chili Garlic Oil – In a small heatproof bowl, mix chopped garlic, dried chili flakes, oyster sauce, and soy sauce. In a pan, heat 4 teaspoons of oil and add ginger, star anise, and a clove. Let them sizzle until aromatic. Carefully pour the hot oil over your garlic mixture—it will sizzle and infuse all the flavors beautifully. Stir well. Plating the Dish – Place your cooked noodles in a deep bowl. Pour the steaming broth and vegetables over them. Peel the boiled egg, slice it in half, and place it gently on top. Drizzle your freshly made chili garlic oil over the dish, letting the flavors soak in. Enjoy! – Take a deep breath, admire your beautifully plated bowl, and dive in. The spicy aroma, the silky broth, and the soft-yet-chewy noodles will transport you to instant comfort. This is more than just a meal—it’s a well-deserved escape after a demanding day. Enjoy every bite!