Garlic Chili Oil Noodles

If you’re looking for a quick, satisfying meal that packs a punch of flavor, these Garlic Chili Oil Noodles are just the ticket! This recipe is one of my go-to favorites, especially on busy weeknights when I want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The bold flavors from the garlic and Korean chili flakes make every bite exciting. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve as a main dish or a side at family gatherings.

What I love most about this recipe is how it brings together simple ingredients to create an unforgettable taste. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, these Garlic Chili Oil Noodles will definitely impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for those nights when you’re short on time.
• Full of Flavor: The combination of garlic, scallions, and chili creates a rich and aromatic sauce that elevates the noodles.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer chili flakes to suit your palate!
• Pantry Staples: Most ingredients are likely already in your kitchen, so you can whip this up anytime.
• Vegan-Friendly: Everyone can enjoy this dish since it’s completely plant-based!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering ingredients for these Garlic Chili Oil Noodles is a breeze! You’ll find that they are simple and wholesome—perfect for a comforting meal any day of the week.

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 their flexibility! You can easily customize this dish to fit different tastes and dietary needs.

• Add Proteins: Toss in some tofu or sautéed vegetables for added nutrition and texture.
• Change Up the Noodles: Experiment with different types of noodles like udon or rice noodles for a unique twist.
• Boost the Veggies: Add in steamed broccoli or snap peas for a pop of color and crunch.
• Make it Creamy: Stir in a splash of coconut milk to create a richer sauce.

How to Make Garlic Chili Oil Noodles

Step 1: Prepare the Aromatic Base

Start by heating your cooking oil in a small frying pan over very low heat. This gentle approach allows the flavors to release slowly. Add in the white parts of the scallions along with minced garlic. Sauté them together for about 5 minutes while stirring constantly. This step is crucial as it prevents burning while bringing out that wonderful garlic aroma!

Step 2: Add Sauce Ingredients

Once your aromatics are fragrant and lightly golden, increase the heat to medium-low. Now it’s time to stir in the vegetable broth, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, Chinese black vinegar, and Korean chili flakes. Let this simmer for about 5 minutes while stirring occasionally. This step melds all those incredible flavors together into one savory sauce.

Step 3: Cook the Noodles

While your sauce is bubbling away, bring a pot of water to boil and cook your dried ribbon noodles according to package instructions. Once they’re cooked al dente, drain them thoroughly. Properly draining ensures that your noodles won’t be soggy when mixed with that delicious sauce!

Step 4: Combine and Toss

Next, add those drained noodles directly into your pan with the flavorful sauce. Toss everything together well until each noodle is beautifully coated with that garlicky goodness. This is where all those tasty flavors come alive!

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Finally, plate your Garlic Chili Oil Noodles and top them off with green scallions, toasted sesame seeds, and extra chili flakes if you want an extra kick. Serve them hot and enjoy every delightful bite!

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Chili Oil Noodles

Creating the perfect Garlic Chili Oil Noodles is all about balance and technique. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your dish turns out fantastic every time!

• Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh garlic and good-quality soy sauce can make a significant difference in flavor. The better the ingredients, the more delicious your noodles will be!

• Control the heat: If you prefer a milder dish, start with less Korean chili flakes and taste as you go. You can always add more heat, but it’s tough to tone it down once it’s added.

• Don’t rush the aromatics: Sautéing the scallions and garlic over low heat allows their flavors to develop without burning. This step is essential for achieving that rich, aromatic base.

• Cook noodles al dente: Follow package instructions but aim for al dente noodles. They will continue cooking slightly when tossed with the sauce, preventing them from becoming mushy.

• Customize your toppings: Feel free to experiment with different garnishes like crushed peanuts or fresh herbs. Personalizing your dish is part of the fun!

How to Serve Garlic Chili Oil Noodles

Presenting your Garlic Chili Oil Noodles beautifully can enhance the dining experience! Here are some creative ideas for serving this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh cilantro: Adds a refreshing note that balances the spiciness.
• Lime wedges: A squeeze of lime brings brightness and acidity, cutting through the richness.
• Sliced red chili: For those who love heat, fresh red chili slices can add an extra kick and vibrant color.

Side Dishes

• Steamed broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a lovely crunch and complements the flavors of the noodles while boosting nutrition.

• Asian-style cucumber salad: This refreshing salad provides a cool contrast to the spicy noodles with its crisp texture and tangy dressing.

• Vegetable spring rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with fresh veggies make for a fantastic appetizer that pairs wonderfully with the noodles.

With these serving suggestions and tips, you’re all set to create a memorable meal that’s sure to impress! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Garlic Chili Oil Noodles are not only a delight to eat but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a larger batch and store it for quick meals throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the noodles to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy within 3-4 days for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

• To freeze, portion out the cooled noodles into freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Store in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen noodles overnight in the refrigerator.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or vegetable broth to prevent sticking.
• Stir until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

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

Can I adjust the spice level in Garlic Chili Oil Noodles?

Absolutely! You can reduce the amount of Korean chili flakes for a milder dish or add more if you love extra heat. The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility!

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

While ribbon noodles are used here, feel free to substitute with your favorite noodle type, such as spaghetti, udon, or rice noodles. Each will bring a unique twist!

Can I make Garlic Chili Oil Noodles gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free soy sauce and choose gluten-free noodles. You’ll still enjoy all the delicious flavors without any gluten.

How long does it take to make Garlic Chili Oil Noodles?

This recipe is quick and easy, taking just about 20 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for those busy weeknights!

Final Thoughts

I hope you give these Garlic Chili Oil Noodles a try! They’re not only quick to whip up but also packed with flavor that will satisfy your cravings. Whether enjoyed as a main course or a side dish, they’re sure to impress. Happy cooking and enjoy every delicious bite!