Ya Ka Mein

Yakamein, (pronounced Yakameat by local New Orleanians) is a delicious meal made with beef, spaghetti, green onions and eggs.  Many locals also call the dish Old Sober because of it's reputation as a hangover cure.    

No one knows the true origin of the dish.  Some say it originated from Chinese immigrants who were brought to New Orleans to help build railroads between New Orleans and Houston.  Others say it is a version of Korean noodle soup dishes brought back to New Orleans from African American troops who fought in the Korean war.  Whichever is true, I am sure glad someone thought of it.

Since we got a taste of cold weather this weekend in Texas, MJ begged me to make ya ka mein for him.  RJ is not a huge fan, but he does love the noodles, what 4 year old wouldn't??

Not only will this dish help you recover from your hangover, it will also be a treat for your tastebuds and warm your insides on a cold night. 

For all yall who want to make this great cold-weather meal, here is the recipe:

3-4 pounds beef stew meat 
4-5 quarts of water

2 tablespoons of beef bouillon base 

1 teaspoon of Lawry's seasoned salt

2 teaspoons of Slap Ya Mama (Cajun seasoning)

1 teaspoon of onion powder

4 tablespoons vegetable oil

salt and pepper, to taste

1 pound of spaghetti noodles

one half hard boiled egg per bowl of soup

1 green onion, sliced

Soy sauce, hot sauce, to taste

Renee