Vegan "Fish Head" Noodle

Fish Head Noodle (Bee Hoon) recipe usually call for milk, for this vegan version, unsweetened soy milk is used as a substitute. Unlike using milk, this can be added generously, the amount of soy milk need to be control in order not to be too overpowering. Serve this soup with rice instead of noodle, if desired. And do not forget to have a plate of freshly sliced red chilli padi with light soy sauce.

Preparation: 10 mins, Cooking time: 25 mins

Ingredients (serves 2)
° 1 carrot, peeled and cut into small chunks
° 9 dried kelps in knot
° 4 seedless red dates (optional)
° 2-6 slices fresh ginger
° 750ml water
° 1 vegetarian fish slice, cut into 4 section and deep-fried
° 75g yam, sliced and deep-fried
° 150g silken tofu, cut into 6 sections
° 2 tomatoes, cut into 4 wedges
° 60ml unsweetened soy milk
° 20g dried seaweed
° salt to taste
° ½ teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
° 200g thick rice vermicelli
° small handful freshly chopped coriander leaves, for garnish

Method
1. Place the dried kelp, carrot, red date, ginger and water in a pot. Bring to a boil and simmer for 20 minutes. Remove all the ingredients with a slotted spoon and discard, if desired.
2. Add in the tomato, tofu, yam, vegetarian fish and bring to a boil. Season to taste with salt. Stir in the soy milk, sesame oil and off the heat.
3. To serve, divide seaweed and rice vermicelli between serving bowls. Ladle the soup into individual serving bowls, garnish with coriander leaves and serve hot.