Scrape the surface of the snake gourd with the back of a knife, wash it, cut it in half lengthwise, and remove the seeds and pith. Cut into bite-sized pieces.

Add sesame oil to a frying pan or small pot and heat. Add the snake gourd, sprinkle with salt, and lightly stir-fry.

Add sake, sugar, noodle soup base, and enough water to cover about half of the snake gourd. Cover with a drop lid and simmer over medium-low heat.

When the liquid has reduced, turn off the heat. It's ready to serve. You can add shaved bonito flakes if you like.

Once it has cooled, it's also delicious chilled in the refrigerator.