Dan Dan Noodles

450 g/1 lb noodles
salt
2 tablespoons sesame seed paste
6 spring onions, chopped
2 cloves garlic, peeled and crushed
x 2.5 cm/1 inch piece root ginger, peeled and
finely chopped
1 tablespoon soy sauce
2 teaspoons red wine vinegar
900 ml/11/2 pints beef or chicken stock
2 teaspoons hot pepper oil (optional)

Cook the noodles in boiling salted water according to packet instructions, until just tender. Drain and keep hot.

Blend the sesame seed paste with 4 tablespoons water and place in a pan, together with the remaining ingredients, except the stock and pepper oil. Cook over moderate heat, stirring frequently, for about 5 minutes.

Meanwhile, bring the stock to the boil and simmer for 2 minutes.

Divide the noodles and hot sauce between 4 individual soup bowls. Spoon over the hot stock and top with the hot pepper oil (if using). SERVES 4