Description:
These 10-Minute Garlic Chili Oil Noodles are a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful dish perfect for a speedy weeknight meal. The combination of perfectly cooked noodles coated in a vibrant, aromatic garlic chili oil sauce creates a delightful balance of savory, spicy, and slightly sweet flavors. With minimal ingredients and steps, this recipe is a lifesaver when you’re short on time but craving a satisfying and delicious meal. The toasted sesame seeds and fresh green onions add a touch of elegance and enhance the overall taste experience. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is foolproof and guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients:
For the Noodles:
- 8 ounces egg noodles (or any noodles of your choice, such as spaghetti, udon, or ramen)
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons light soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Pinch of salt
For the Garlic Chili Oil:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 teaspoons red chili flakes (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- Sliced green onions (for garnish)
- 2-3 tablespoons vegetable oil (such as canola, sunflower, or peanut oil)
Preparation:
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles (or your preferred noodles) and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 6-8 minutes for egg noodles. Be sure to stir the noodles occasionally to prevent them from sticking together. Once cooked, drain the noodles immediately in a colander. Do not overcook the noodles; they should be slightly firm to the bite.
Step 2: Create the Sauce
While the noodles are cooking, prepare the sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the toasted sesame oil, light soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Ensure the sugar is fully dissolved for a smooth and balanced sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Some people prefer a little more sweetness or a touch of heat by adding a tiny dash of chili oil to the sauce itself.
Step 3: Infuse the Oil
In a small saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-low heat. It’s crucial to use low heat to prevent the garlic from burning and becoming bitter. Add the minced garlic and red chili flakes to the oil.
Step 4: Combine the Flavors
Remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool slightly for about a minute. This helps prevent the noodles from cooking further when you pour the hot oil over them. Carefully pour the hot garlic chili oil over the cooked and drained noodles. Toss the noodles thoroughly to coat them evenly with the aromatic oil and sauce. Use tongs or chopsticks to ensure every strand is well coated, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Garnish and Enjoy
Transfer your Garlic Chili Oil Noodles to serving plates or bowls. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions for added flavor, texture, and visual appeal. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures. You can also add a fried egg on top for extra protein and richness.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
This Garlic Chili Oil Noodles recipe is a winner for so many reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly fast and easy to make. In just 10 minutes, you can have a satisfying and flavorful meal on the table. It’s also highly customizable; you can use any type of noodles you prefer, adjust the amount of chili flakes to your spice tolerance, and add extra toppings like vegetables, proteins, or even a drizzle of extra chili oil. The sauce is perfectly balanced, with the savory soy sauce, tangy rice vinegar, and touch of sweetness creating a complex and delicious flavor profile. Plus, it’s a great way to use up pantry staples and reduce food waste. Whether you’re a busy professional, a student, or simply someone who loves good food, this recipe is a must-try. The aromatic garlic chili oil transforms simple noodles into a gourmet experience.
COOKING Rating
EASY
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a main course for a quick lunch or dinner.
- Pair with a side of steamed or stir-fried vegetables for a more balanced meal.
- Add protein such as grilled chicken, shrimp, tofu, or a fried egg.
- Serve as a side dish to complement Asian-inspired entrees.
- Garnish with extra chili flakes or a drizzle of chili oil for added heat.
- Sprinkle with chopped peanuts or cashews for extra crunch.
- Add a squeeze of lime juice for a burst of freshness.
Tips:
- Don’t overcook the noodles! Al dente is key for the best texture.
- Adjust the amount of chili flakes to your spice preference. Start with less and add more as needed.
- Be careful not to burn the garlic when making the chili oil, as it can become bitter. Cook it over low heat and stir frequently.
- Use high-quality soy sauce and sesame oil for the best flavor.
- For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a tablespoon of oyster sauce or fish sauce to the sauce.
- The garlic chili oil can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Experiment with different types of noodles, such as udon, ramen, or soba.
- Add a variety of toppings, such as bean sprouts, carrots, cucumbers, or pickled vegetables.
- Consider adding a pinch of MSG for a boost of umami flavor (optional).
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Approximate, per serving)
- Calories: 400-450
- Protein: 10-12g
- Sodium: 800-1000mg (depending on the soy sauce used)
Conclusion:
The 10-Minute Garlic Chili Oil Noodles recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients and a few clever techniques can create a truly extraordinary dish. Its appeal lies in its speed, ease, and incredible flavor. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, impromptu gatherings, or when you simply crave a delicious and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The versatility of this recipe allows you to experiment with different noodles, vegetables, proteins, and seasonings, making it a staple in your culinary repertoire. So, grab your ingredients, fire up your stove, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of flavorful and comforting Garlic Chili Oil Noodles that will leave you craving more. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a go-to favorite!
Questions and Answers:
- Can I use a different type of noodle besides egg noodles?
- Absolutely! The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. You can use any type of noodle you prefer, such as spaghetti, linguine, udon, ramen, or soba noodles. Just make sure to cook them according to the package instructions until al dente. Thicker noodles like udon might require a slightly longer cooking time, while thinner noodles like angel hair pasta will cook faster. Experiment and find your favorite noodle to pair with the garlic chili oil sauce.
- I’m sensitive to spice. Can I reduce the amount of chili flakes?
- Definitely! The amount of red chili flakes can be adjusted to suit your spice tolerance. Start with a small amount, such as 1/4 teaspoon, and taste as you go. You can always add more chili flakes later if you want a spicier dish. Alternatively, you can use a milder type of chili flake or even omit them altogether and use a few drops of chili oil for a more subtle heat. If you prefer no spice at all, just leave out the chili flakes.
- Can I add vegetables to this dish?
- Yes, you can absolutely add vegetables! This is a great way to add nutrients and texture to your Garlic Chili Oil Noodles. Some great options include:
- Leafy greens: Spinach, bok choy, or kale, added towards the end of cooking so they don’t wilt too much.
- Crunchy vegetables: Bean sprouts, carrots (shredded or julienned), cucumbers (thinly sliced).
- Stir-fried vegetables: Broccoli florets, bell peppers, snap peas, mushrooms, or onions, stir-fried separately and added to the noodles. Add the vegetables of your choice after tossing the noodles in the garlic chili oil.
- Yes, you can absolutely add vegetables! This is a great way to add nutrients and texture to your Garlic Chili Oil Noodles. Some great options include:
- How long can I store leftover Garlic Chili Oil Noodles?
- Leftover Garlic Chili Oil Noodles can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, the noodles tend to absorb the sauce over time, so they may not be as flavorful as when they were first made. To reheat, you can microwave them for a minute or two, or stir-fry them in a pan with a little bit of oil until heated through. You might want to add a splash of soy sauce or sesame oil to refresh the flavors.
- Can I make this recipe vegetarian/vegan?
- Yes, this recipe can easily be adapted to be vegetarian or vegan. The main ingredient to consider is the noodles. Make sure to use egg-free noodles if you are vegan. Most commercially available egg noodles are not vegan, so make sure to check the ingredient list. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegetarian and vegan-friendly. You can also add some protein like tofu or edamame to make it a more complete and satisfying meal. Also, check the soy sauce is vegan (if you use oyster sauce, be sure to use mushroom oyster sauce)
