After a long morning of playing in the backyard, Bibi’s fur was full of tiny leaves, dirt, and even a little patch of mud. Uncle Phong, noticing the mess, called Bibi in with a gentle smile, “Come inside, little one. It’s time to clean up!” Bibi didn’t protest. She liked being tidy—especially because she knew something yummy always followed bath time.
Inside the house, the warm scent of lemongrass from an earlier tea lingered in the air. Bibi dashed to the bathroom, her tiny paws padding against the tile floor. With Uncle Phong’s help, she was soon clean, fluffy, and smelling like lavender shampoo. She even let him wrap her in a big soft towel, where she peeked out with gleaming eyes, ready for her next adventure.
As Bibi scampered into the kitchen, she heard her tummy rumble. Uncle Phong chuckled and said, “How about some instant noodles for lunch? My favorite kind—the spicy beef flavor.” Bibi clapped her hands. She loved helping in the kitchen, especially when Uncle Phong was in charge. Today, she was determined to assist him every step of the way.
Uncle Phong opened the kitchen cabinet and pulled out a bright red pack of noodles. “This one has a little kick,” he warned. Bibi nodded enthusiastically. She might be small, but she could handle spice—or at least, she thought she could.
“Alright,” Uncle Phong said. “Let’s make this together. First, let’s boil some water.”
He handed Bibi a small pot and let her carry it carefully to the sink. She filled it halfway with water—spilling only a little—and brought it back with a proud grin. Uncle Phong turned on the gas stove and showed Bibi how to keep a safe distance. The flame lit up with a soft whoosh, and the pot was placed on top.
As the water began to heat, Bibi helped open the noodle pack. Inside were the noodles and three flavor sachets: soup base, dried vegetables, and chili oil. “We’ll add these one by one,” Uncle Phong said, “but not too early. Timing is everything in cooking—even for instant noodles!”
Bibi nodded seriously, taking her assistant chef role with great pride. She took a small spoon and helped stir the water carefully, watching the bubbles begin to form at the bottom of the pot.
“Okay, now break the noodles in half and drop them in,” Uncle Phong instructed.
Bibi did as she was told, giggling as she watched the noodle bricks soften and twist in the boiling water. Steam rose into the air, making the kitchen feel cozy and warm. Uncle Phong added a splash of soy sauce and a bit of sesame oil—his personal touch.
“Should we add an egg?” he asked.
“Yes, yes!” Bibi cried, excited.
Uncle Phong cracked an egg and gently swirled the water so it would poach nicely. Bibi watched the egg white form like a cloud, while the yolk sat in the center like a golden sun.
Now came the flavor sachets. “Soup base first,” Uncle Phong said. Bibi tore the corner open and carefully poured it in, watching the water turn a rich, reddish color. Next came the dried vegetables—bits of green onion, carrots, and mushrooms floated to the surface. Finally, Uncle Phong added just a drop of the spicy chili oil.
“Let’s give it a stir,” he said, handing Bibi the spoon. She mixed the soup with delight, the aroma tickling her nose and making her mouth water.
As the noodles cooked, Bibi helped prepare the bowls. She brought out two ceramic ones—one blue, one white—and placed them on the table. She also fetched spoons, chopsticks, and a little plate of lime wedges, which Uncle Phong always liked to squeeze into his bowl for a fresh kick.
When everything was ready, Uncle Phong ladled the noodles into the bowls. The egg floated gently on top, the vegetables perfectly rehydrated, and the soup a rich, hearty broth. Bibi’s bowl had just a hint of chili oil, while Uncle Phong’s had the full fiery swirl.
They sat down together, steam rising from their bowls. Bibi took her first bite and gave an approving “Mmm!” Her cheeks turned a little red from the spice, but she didn’t stop. Uncle Phong laughed, wiping a noodle off her nose.
“This is the best lunch,” he said, slurping happily.
As they ate, they chatted about the morning, the weather, and what they might do after lunch. Bibi suggested a walk in the garden to help their tummies settle. Uncle Phong agreed—it sounded like the perfect way to spend the afternoon.
After finishing, Bibi helped clean up. She brought the bowls to the sink, rinsed them with warm water, and handed them to Uncle Phong for a final wash. Teamwork made everything better.
Later, as the sun shone through the curtains and the birds chirped outside, Bibi curled up on the couch beside Uncle Phong. Her belly was full, her fur was clean, and her heart was happy.
“You did a great job today,” Uncle Phong whispered, patting her head.
Bibi smiled sleepily. Helping cook had been just as fun as eating. Maybe tomorrow, they could make rice porridge or Uncle Phong’s famous fried eggs. But for now, a nap was the only thing on her mind.
And so, with soft snores and warm hugs, the day slowly drifted into a peaceful afternoon—all thanks to a bowl of instant noodles and a little helper with a big heart.
