Chow mein

Method

1. Cook the noodles in a large pan of boiling water for 3-5 minutes, then drain and plunge them into cold water. Drain thoroughly, toss them with 3 teaspoons of the sesame oil and set aside.

2. Combine the chicken shreds with all the marinade ingredients, mix well and then leave to marinate for about 10 minutes.

3. Heat a wok over a high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of the groundnut oil and, when it is very hot and slightly smoking, add the chicken shreds. Stir-fry for about 2 minutes and then transfer to a plate. Wipe the wok clean.

4. Reheat the wok until it is very hot, and then add the remaining groundnut oil. When the oil is slightly smoking, add the garlic and stir-fry for 10 seconds.

5. Add the mangetout and ham and stir-fry for about 1 minute. Add the noodles, soy sauces, rice wine, salt, pepper, sugar and spring onions. Stir-fry for 2 minutes.

6. Return the chicken and any juices to the noodle mixture. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes or until the chicken is cooked. Add the remaining sesame oil and give the mixture a few final stirs. Turn it on to a warm platter and serve at once.