Chapter 144 - Chen Xians Visit (1/2)

“You want me to ask him to stay?”

Lu Yuxi tilted her head and said innocently, “Can’t you?”

Xu Le pondered for a moment before he scooped up a spoonful of chicken soup and tasted it. After realizing that it was a little bland, he added salt and white pepper to enhance the taste.

After the soup boiled, he placed the sliced tomatoes into the pot before replying, “He used to be the head chef of the Heavenly Restaurant. If I asked to hire him, it more or less would hurt his pride.”

“You actually think so?”

Lu Yuxi muttered, her expression slightly stunned. She was surprised that she was not as meticulous as Xu Le.

“Why don’t you stir-fry the tomatoes before putting them in? The soup won’t taste good if it’s added after being boiled.”

Lu Yuxi suddenly interrupted. “I often make the noodles with tomato soup base. Usually, I will cut the tomato into pieces and add sugar to release the juices. Then, I will pour cold water into the pot and cook it until it’s thickened. Then, I will add noodles so that it is sweet and sour.”

“I am making clear broth noodle soup.” Xu Le explained patiently, “It’s also delicious when you cook it like that, but it tastes more plain. I’ve eaten too many oily dishes, so I want to have a change with lighter flavors.”

“Mmm.” Lu Yuxi didn’t comment. After thinking for a while, she still encouraged him secretly, “As the saying goes, a man can’t be defeated by a single cent. After Chef Zhang participated in the show, his reputation and career fell to rock bottom. If you’re willing to offer a high salary now, he might agree.”

Xu Le looked up at Lu Yuxi and smiled. “Sure.”

The cooked noodles were covered with tomatoes and spinach. A few white prawns were placed on the top and a bowl of fragrant noodles was ready.

After serving the bowl on the table, Zhang Tong stared at the bowl awkwardly. He didn’t know how to start a conversation with Xu Le.

Fortunately, Lu Yuxi ran over with a plate and casually sat down. She mumbled, “It’s so hot! Why is this dish called lotus steak? Is it because there’s a lotus leaf underneath?”

“That’s what’s written on the recipe.”

Lu Yuxi did not retort. Instead, she lowered her head and blew on the noodles, wanting to taste them.

“Uncle Zhang, I made some supper for you in a haste. Try it.”

Xu Le spoke in a neither servile nor overbearing manner.

Zhang Tong nodded. He didn’t seem to be in good spirits. It was as if he didn’t have the strength to speak. He picked up his chopsticks and swallowed in one gulp. He choked and coughed twice before continuing to chew.

The Clear Broth Noodle Soup didn’t have any seasonings such as soya sauce added. There was only taste of salt and the fresh sweetness of the tomatoes. The side dishes were red and green, and the prawns were tender and smooth. The noodles weren’t too hard, but sweet and smooth.

As soon as he took a bite, the delicious chicken soup and steaming hot noodles slid into his stomach. It was extremely therapeutic.

Zhang Tong lowered his head and started eating. His hand that was holding the chopsticks trembled slightly.

Lu Yuxi remained silent and picked up a piece of steak with her fork. It was cooked in a very Chinese manner. The beef was juicy, and the braised sauce was slightly sweet. It was blood red inside, and the heat control was just right.

Not only was it fully cooked like the Chinese dishes, its tender texture was also retained.

The light noodles was complemented with the braised beef steak. Occasionally, they could even taste the delicate fragrance of the lotus leaves underneath. During the meal, they did not make any small talk and ate seriously.

Zhang Tong picked up the bowl and finished the soup. Then, he leaned back in satisfaction and relaxed.

“Thanks… Is the soup base you used chicken soup?”

“Yes.”

“Oh, it’s after the soup is ‘sweeped’!”

Zhang Tong came to his senses, and a hint of joy appeared on his face as he tasted the noodles. He was gratified by Xu Ke’s hospitality.