Again, strange happenings on leftover day. I had some black pasta from our local Costco (See? Even in Japan we have certain amenities!).  I also had some leftover pseudo-pho, worthy of a post itself. Pho is a standard Vietnamese noodle dish. My wife and I ate it during out visit, I got a local cookbook on the way out of Saigon, and we started eating faux pho right in Japan. I would eat some roasr chicken, boil the remainder to make stock, and then add a variety of ingredients, usually centering around mint, fresh coriander (celantro) and, of course, nam plah (Thai fish sauce). My wife took the leftover soup, and added black and white pasta, chili peppers, and more fresh coriander. Beyond the taste, the appearance was spectacular.

Posted in Chicken, Japanese Fusion Cooking, Soups and Stews, Spicy 1 Comment »

Yes, I know instant food is generally crap.

I know.

But we, especially we men, are human – and sometimes, well, lazy.

Especially when we live alone or have a hangover.

So, instant has it’s moments. And, as horrible as instant food is, it can be easily dressed up to taste fresh, simply by tossing in a few fresh ingredients. It’s amazing what a little sauted garlic added to instant anything will do. Throw in whatever fresh veggies you have, and you have a meal – and a not entirely unhealthy one.

Instant ramen, with the above garlic, or just with a sprinkling of sesame oil and pepper. Top it with a couple of leftover greens , onions whatever. Throw in some shredded cold cuts and voila.

Gourmet instant ramen.

Posted in Japanese Condiments, Soups and Stews, Traditional Japanese Foods No Comments »