Taiwanese Sweet Soy Noodles (Yamien Manis ala Taiwan)

1.Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together sweet soy sauce, light soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, white pepper, and water. Set aside.

2.Cook the noodles: If using fresh noodles, blanch them in boiling water for 1-2 minutes until tender but still firm. If using dried noodles, cook according to package directions. Drain the noodles and toss them with 1 tbsp of sesame oil to prevent sticking. Divide the noodles among serving bowls.

3.Prepare the topping: Heat 1 tbsp of cooking oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

4.Add the ground chicken to the wok and break it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through.

5.Stir in the chopped shiitake mushrooms and water chestnuts (if using). Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the mushrooms are tender.

6.Add the sweet soy sauce, light soy sauce, and 1 tsp of sesame oil to the topping mixture. Stir well to combine and cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

7.Season the topping with salt and pepper to taste.

8.Pour the prepared sauce over the noodles in each serving bowl. Toss gently to coat the noodles evenly.

9.Spoon the chicken and mushroom topping over the sauced noodles.

10.Garnish generously with chopped scallions, fried shallots, and fresh cilantro leaves before serving.