3 ounces dried soba noodles
1 1/2 teaspoon canola oil
1 red bell pepper, cut into thin strips
1 shallot (or 1/2 red onion), thinly sliced
2 asparagus spears, bodies cut into thin disks and tips halved
2 scallions, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
4 dried shiitake mushrooms, soaked in hot water for 5 minutes, drained, and cut into thin strips
1 clove of garlic, minced
2 tablespoons mirin (Japanese sweet rice wine) (you can substitute sake, white wine, or water, though maybe add a pinch of sugar if you do)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon cider vinegar
1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
toasted sesame seeds for garnish
salt and pepper