There was a time when the internet was dominated by posts of Myojo Mala cup noodles, and now it’s time for another brand to enter the ‘competition’ – Hai Chi Jia Suan La Fen (嗨吃家酸辣粉)! I’m sure you’ve probably heard of it even if you’re totally not interested in spicy food. My spice tolerance is pretty low, but I’ve started to appreciate Mala over the past year, and I just had to try this after seeing all the raving reviews!
If you only wish to try one cup, it’s better to get at supermarkets. But me being lazy as usual to get out of the house recently, I bought a carton from Asia’s Best Food online – 6 cups for $16.90 with $3.99 delivery.
The package comes with a few packets of seasoning, toppings, vinegar and chilli oil, which also means that there are extra steps to take when it comes to preparing this quick meal. But it’s gonna be all worth it!
Since I have a lower tolerance towards Mala flavour, I only added half a packet of chilli and 3/4 of the vinegar to reduce the sourness. You can adjust the flavourings according to your preferences. I think I have to trial and error a little because it was still too spicy for me!
I think my throat would be screaming for help if I had added the full packet of spices in.
I ended up diluting my suan la fen by pouring out the soup and adding more hot water in. Some of you may start rolling your eyes but I managed to get the perfect concoction for my taste buds! The mala gives a tinge of numbness and spiciness without being too overboard such that I’m panting for my life, and the peanuts adds a good crunch. I actually tried to dig out all the peanuts hiding within the broth!
Overall, it’s an addictive and good choice to satisfy my late supper cravings, but I have to take it in moderation because it’s really not a good time to fall sick during this period!
I also realised that they are selling mala peanuts! Quite shiok to cook that with my normal noodles just to add a hint of mala.
Don’t say I never share!
