Chicken Tantanmen with Rich Sesame Broth

Tantanmen is a Japanese ramen dish inspired by the Chinese Sichuan-style dandan noodles. This delicious and comforting bowl of noodles features spicy minced chicken, a rich and creamy sesame broth, and all the classic ramen toppings. The depth of flavor from the tahini and sesame oil combined with the heat of the chili paste makes this a standout comfort dish.

Ingredients:

# For the Broth:
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable stock
– 2 tablespoons sesame paste (tahini)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon chili paste (like doubanjiang)
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 knob of ginger, grated

# For the Toppings:
– 200g ground chicken
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sake
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 150g fresh ramen noodles
– 2 boiled eggs, halved
– Sliced green onions
– Nori sheets, cut into strips
– Toasted sesame seeds

# Optional:
– Corn kernels
– Bamboo shoots
– Bok choy, blanched

Instructions:

# 1. Prepare the Broth:
1. In a large pot over medium heat, warm the sesame oil and sauté the garlic and ginger until fragrant.
2. Add the chili paste and continue to cook for another minute.
3. Pour in the chicken or vegetable stock and bring it to a simmer.
4. Stir in the tahini, soy sauce, and coconut milk, and let simmer gently for about 10 minutes until well blended and creamy.

# 2. Cook the Meat:
1. In a separate pan over medium heat, warm the sesame oil and sauté the garlic until fragrant.
2. Add the ground chicken and cook until it starts to brown.
3. Stir in the soy sauce, sake, and sugar, and continue to cook until the chicken is cooked through and crumbly. Set aside.

# 3. Assemble the Dish:
1. Cook the ramen noodles according to the package instructions, then drain well.
2. Divide the cooked noodles into serving bowls.
3. Pour the hot broth over the noodles.
4. Top each bowl with a portion of the minced chicken.
5. Add halved eggs, a handful of sliced green onions, nori strips, and toasted sesame seeds.
6. Optionally, add other toppings like corn, bamboo shoots, or blanched bok choy.

# 4. Serve:
Serve the Tantanmen hot and enjoy a warm, comforting bowl with a spicy kick and creamy texture.