Fanqie jirouwan mian (番茄鸡肉丸面)
China
Tender chicken meatballs are cooked in a fragrant tomato‑mushroom broth and served with boiled noodles. The dish is hearty, nutritious, and quick to prepare.
Ingredients
- 250 g ground chicken
- 1 pcs green onion
- 1 pcs egg white
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 1 pinch white pepper
- 0.5 tsp light soy sauce
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 5 pcs dried shiitake mushrooms
- 4 pcs ripe tomatoes
- 750 ml hot water
- to taste cilantro
- to taste Chinese chili oil
- 400 g noodles
Steps
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In a bowl combine ground chicken, finely chopped green onion, egg white, cornstarch, salt, white pepper, and light soy sauce. Mix, turning in one direction, until the mixture becomes very sticky.
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Form small balls from the mixture, wetting your hands with water so the meat doesn't stick. Set aside.
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Cook the noodles according to package instructions until done, then drain.
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Heat vegetable oil in a wok, add green onion and dried shiitake mushrooms (pre‑soaked and chopped). Stir‑fry for 2‑3 minutes until fragrant.
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Add the chopped ripe tomatoes to the vegetables and fry until softened. Pour in hot water, add salt and white pepper, cover and simmer 5‑7 minutes until the tomatoes are fully broken down.
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Carefully drop the formed meatballs into the broth, bring to a boil and cook 4‑5 minutes until fully cooked.
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Remove the soup from heat, sprinkle with chopped cilantro and, if desired, add Chinese chili oil.
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Divide the noodles among bowls, pour the hot broth with meatballs over them and serve immediately.
FAQ
How do you pronounce Fanqie Jirouwan Mian?
It's pronounced 'Fahn-chee-eh Jee-roh-wahn Mee-an'. The characters are 番茄鸡肉丸面.
What can I substitute for shiitake mushrooms in this recipe?
While dried shiitake offer unique umami, fresh cremini or button mushrooms can be used. Our Umami Guru app can help you find other suitable ingredient substitutions.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the chicken meatballs with plant-based alternatives or tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of water for the soup base.
How long does it take to prepare Fanqie Jirouwan Mian?
This recipe takes approximately 37 minutes to prepare from start to finish, making it a great option for a quick and satisfying meal.
What anime films feature dishes similar to Fanqie Jirouwan Mian?
While not identical, the comforting, homemade feel of this noodle soup evokes the wholesome meals often seen in Studio Ghibli films like 'Spirited Away' or 'Ponyo'.