Skip to content

A Chinese PhD student in Belgium rakes in $1,200 per day by peddling spicy pea noodles with his spouse.

Struggling academic ventures into street food, patrons rave about his noodles as the finest they've ever tasted.

Belgian Chinese PhD Student and Wife Earning $1,200 Per Day from Daily Spicy Pea Noodles Sales
Belgian Chinese PhD Student and Wife Earning $1,200 Per Day from Daily Spicy Pea Noodles Sales

A Chinese PhD student in Belgium rakes in $1,200 per day by peddling spicy pea noodles with his spouse.

In the heart of Belgium, a humble noodle stall has become a viral sensation, attracting crowds and earning more than 1,000 euros (US$1,200) a day. The stall, run by Ding and his wife Wang, offers a unique dish - the spicy pea noodles, a specialty from Chongqing, Wang's hometown in China.

Ding, a 37-year-old PhD graduate from Jiangsu province in eastern China, first arrived in Belgium to pursue postdoctoral research in soil management and crop production. After completing his studies, he faced difficulty in finding stable work beyond research. This led him and his wife Wang, whom he met at university, to start their own noodle venture.

In May, the couple began selling their spicy pea noodles at local markets in Belgium. To appeal to local tastes, Wang eased back on the heat of the dish, making it more palatable for the Belgian palate. The bold salty-spicy kick, however, remains a defining feature of the dish, which consists of chewy noodles, tender peas, and a savory pork sauce.

The success of the noodle stall has continued, thanks in part to the coverage from mainland outlet Jimu News. The stall has not undergone any changes in ownership or management since its inception. The couple's child was born in Belgium, and the family has made Belgium their home since 2015.

Ding, during his academic career, published around 30 academic papers. His research background has not gone to waste, as he continues to apply scientific principles to his noodle-making process, ensuring consistency and quality in every bowl.

The couple's venture is a testament to their resilience and adaptability, turning a challenge into an opportunity and sharing a piece of their cultural heritage with the world. The spicy pea noodle stall is more than just a food business; it's a story of passion, perseverance, and the power of good food to bring people together.

Read also:

Latest