Abura Soba

Instructions

1. Prepare the sauce
   In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well and set aside. If using chili oil, add it to the sauce or keep it separate for individual adjustment.
2. Cook the meat
   Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and white parts of green onions, sautéing until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Add ground pork, breaking it apart as it cooks until browned and crispy (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Boil the noodles
   Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions (usually 2-3 minutes for fresh, 4-5 minutes for dried). Drain well and rinse briefly under cold water to stop the cooking process, then drain thoroughly again.
4. Prepare the eggs
   While the noodles are cooking, prepare soft-boiled eggs. Bring water to a boil in a small pot, gently lower the eggs in, and cook for exactly 6 minutes. Transfer immediately to ice water, then peel carefully when cool enough to handle.
5. Assemble the dish
   Divide the remaining 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil among four serving bowls. Add the well-drained noodles to each bowl. Pour the sauce evenly over each portion of noodles. Top with the cooked ground pork mixture.
6. Add the toppings
   Cut the soft-boiled eggs in half and place on top of each bowl. Arrange nori strips, bean sprouts or menma (if using), green parts of onions, and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds. Serve immediately.
7. Mix before eating
   Instruct diners to thoroughly mix all ingredients in the bowl before eating to ensure the noodles are evenly coated with the flavorful sauce and toppings are distributed throughout the dish.