Longevity Noodles, or yi mien, is a popular dish served on birthdays and other celebratory occasions to symbolize long life, prosperity, and good luck. This simple version is an egg drop soup served over noodles. It is also a great way to get your international student in the kitchen and use up that leftover holiday ham. For added contrast in texture and color, add a green vegetable.
- Total: 40 minutes
- Prep: 20 minutes
- Cook: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients:
- 8 cups water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ pound dried thin egg noodles or spaghetti
Sauce:
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon soy
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 4 teaspoons water
- White or black pepper to taste
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 4 teaspoons water
- White or black pepper to taste
Optional poached eggs:
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- Garnish: 3 green onions (spring onions, finely chopped)
- Garnish: ½ to 2/3 cup diced cooked ham
Directions:
- Bring the salted water to a boil and parboil the noodles, using chopsticks to separate them. Rinse the noodles repeatedly in cold water and drain thoroughly. Divide the noodles equally among soup bowls.
- Bring the broth or stock to a boil over medium heat. Stir in the soy sauce, sesame oil, and pepper. Give the cornstarch and water a quick re-stir and stir it in.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat. Add the beaten egg, pouring it slowly through the tines of a fork and stirring rapidly in one direction for about 1 minute.
- Pour the hot broth over the noodles. Garnish with the chopped ham and green onion.
To Include Poached Eggs:
- Use the wok to poach the eggs.
- The poached eggs are placed on the noodles, and the sauce is poured over. Garnish with the green onion and the sliced ham as in the recipe above.
Nutritional Guidelines (per serving): 273 Calories / 8g Fat / 38g Carbs / 23g Protein
Check out our homestay blog for more information on hosting international students. If you’re interested in hosting an international student, please fill out an inquiry form!