Garlic Chili Oil Noodles

If you’re looking for a dish that packs a punch of flavor and is incredibly easy to whip up, you’ll love these Garlic Chili Oil Noodles. This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it reminds me of cozy weeknights spent at home, savoring every bite. With just a handful of pantry staples, this meal brings restaurant-quality taste right to your kitchen. Plus, it’s versatile enough for busy weeknights or family gatherings!

These noodles are not just delicious; they’re also a wonderful way to bring everyone together around the table. Whether you enjoy them as a main dish or a side, Garlic Chili Oil Noodles will soon become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 20 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy this meal on even the busiest nights.
• Full of Flavor: The combination of garlic, scallions, and Korean chili flakes creates an irresistible sauce that’s both savory and spicy.
• Customizable Heat: You can easily adjust the spice level to suit your preference by adding more or less chili flakes.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy these noodles! They’re sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the sauce ahead of time, and just toss it with fresh noodles when you’re ready to eat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how simple and wholesome these ingredients are! Each one plays an important role in making this dish as flavorful as possible. Let’s gather what we need!

For the Noodles:

• 11 oz (300g) dried ribbon noodles

For the Sauce:

• 1½ tablespoons cooking oil (e.g., grapeseed oil or neutral oil)
• ½ cup scallions (white part only), thinly sliced
• 1½ tablespoons minced garlic (about 4 cloves)
• ¼ cup low-sodium vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons light soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Chinese black vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Korean chili powder or flakes (e.g., Gochugaru)

For Garnish:

• ¼ cup scallions (green part), thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
• Extra chili flakes (optional)

Variations

One of the best things about Garlic Chili Oil Noodles is how flexible the recipe can be! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

• Add some veggies: Toss in some sautéed bell peppers or broccoli for extra color and nutrients.
• Swap the noodles: Try using rice noodles or gluten-free options for a different texture.
• Include protein: Add tofu or chickpeas for a heartier meal that packs in more protein.
• Experiment with spices: If you’re adventurous, throw in some ginger or sesame oil for added depth of flavor.

How to Make Garlic Chili Oil Noodles

Step 1: Make the Aromatic Base

Start by heating your cooking oil in a small frying pan over very low heat. This step is crucial because it helps release the fragrant oils from the scallions and garlic without burning them. Add the white part of the scallions along with the minced garlic. Sauté gently for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly. You want them soft and aromatic but not browned—this will give your sauce a beautiful base flavor!

Step 2: Add Sauce Ingredients

Once your aromatics are ready, increase the heat to medium-low. Now it’s time to add all those delicious sauce ingredients: vegetable broth, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, Chinese black vinegar, and Korean chili flakes. Stir well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes while occasionally stirring. This allows all those flavors to meld beautifully together.

Step 3: Cook the Noodles

While your sauce simmers away, bring a pot of water to boil and cook your ribbon noodles according to package instructions. Drain them thoroughly once they’re al dente. This step ensures that you have perfectly cooked noodles that will soak up all that delicious sauce.

Step 4: Combine and Toss

Now comes the fun part! Add your drained noodles directly into the pan with that aromatic sauce. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly until each noodle is coated evenly with that rich garlic chili mixture. This is where all those flavors come together beautifully.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

To finish off your Garlic Chili Oil Noodles, sprinkle on the green part of the scallions and toasted sesame seeds. If you’re feeling adventurous or like it spicier, add some extra chili flakes as well! Serve hot and enjoy every bite of this delightful dish.

And there you have it—a comforting bowl of Garlic Chili Oil Noodles perfect for any occasion! Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Chili Oil Noodles

These Garlic Chili Oil Noodles are sure to impress your friends and family! Here are some pro tips to ensure you achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

• Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic has a more vibrant flavor than pre-minced varieties. This will give your noodles a delightful aromatic quality that’s hard to resist.

• Adjust the Spice Level: If you’re unsure about the heat, start with less Korean chili powder and add more gradually. This way, you can tailor the spice level to your personal preference without overwhelming the dish.

• Don’t Rush the Aromatics: Sautéing the scallions and garlic on low heat allows their flavors to fully develop. Taking your time here makes a significant difference in taste!

• Cook Noodles Al Dente: For the best texture, cook your noodles just until they’re al dente. They will continue to absorb sauce and flavor as they rest, ensuring they don’t become mushy.

• Customize with Veggies: Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, bok choy, or snap peas to the dish. Not only do they enhance nutrition, but they also add great color and crunch!

How to Serve Garlic Chili Oil Noodles

Presenting your Garlic Chili Oil Noodles beautifully can elevate the dining experience! Here are some serving ideas to make it visually appealing and delicious.

Garnishes

• Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a pop of color and a fresh herbaceous note that complements the dish wonderfully.

• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice right before eating brightens up the flavors and adds a zesty kick.

• Sliced Red Chilies: For an extra touch of heat and color, sprinkle some sliced red chilies on top for visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a nutritious crunch and pairs well with the spicy noodles.

• Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with rice vinegar dressing offers a cool contrast to the warmth of the noodles.

• Edamame: Seasoned edamame is an excellent protein-rich side that complements Asian flavors perfectly.

• Vegetable Spring Rolls: These crispy rolls filled with fresh vegetables make for a delightful appetizer alongside your noodles.

Enjoy crafting this delightful meal that’s not only satisfying but also packed with flavor!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Garlic Chili Oil Noodles are perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare them in advance, making them a convenient option for busy weeknights. Here’s how to store and reheat them for optimal freshness.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the noodles to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate.
• They can be stored for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Cool the noodles fully and then portion them into freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
• To prevent sticking, you may want to toss the noodles in a little oil before freezing.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen noodles in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• For stovetop reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to a pan over medium heat.
• Stir until warmed through, adding more liquid as necessary to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Garlic Chili Oil Noodles that might help you out!

Can I make Garlic Chili Oil Noodles spicier?

Absolutely! You can increase the amount of Korean chili flakes according to your spice preference. Just remember to start small; you can always add more!

How do I store Garlic Chili Oil Noodles leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them!

Can I customize this Garlic Chili Oil Noodles recipe?

Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas, or protein sources such as tofu or tempeh for added nutrition and flavor.

What type of noodles work best for Garlic Chili Oil Noodles?

Ribbon noodles work wonderfully, but you can also use other types like udon or rice noodles depending on your preference.

Are these Garlic Chili Oil Noodles suitable for vegans?

Yes, this recipe is completely vegan-friendly, making it a delicious option for anyone following a plant-based diet!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing these Garlic Chili Oil Noodles! They’re not only easy to whip up but also packed with flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing. Whether you’re serving them as a main dish or a delightful side, I encourage you to give this recipe a try. Enjoy every slurp!