Are you ready to spice up your dinner? Garlic Chili Noodles are not only packed with bold flavors, but they’re also simple to whip up in no time. With just a handful of ingredients like garlic, fresh chilies, and a few sauces, you’ll create a dish that warms your heart and fills your belly. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that will make your taste buds dance!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 200g dried egg noodles (or your preferred noodles)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 6 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-2 red chilies, finely sliced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon chili sauce (like Sriracha)
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 2 green onions, sliced
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
– Toasted sesame seeds, for garnish
– Salt and pepper to taste
Let’s dive into the ingredients for garlic chili noodles. Start with 200g of dried egg noodles. You can use any kind of noodles you like, but egg noodles add a rich flavor. Next, grab 2 tablespoons of olive oil. This oil will help sauté the garlic and chilies, adding depth to your dish.
You need 6 cloves of garlic, minced. Garlic gives a strong and tasty kick. For heat, use 1-2 red chilies, finely sliced. Adjust the amount based on how spicy you want your noodles.
Next, you’ll need 1 tablespoon of soy sauce for a salty taste. Add 1 tablespoon of chili sauce, like Sriracha, for even more spice. A touch of 1 teaspoon of sesame oil brings a nutty flavor. Add 1 teaspoon of sugar to balance the heat.
You also need 2 green onions, sliced. They add freshness and color. For garnishing, grab fresh cilantro and toasted sesame seeds. Finally, don’t forget salt and pepper to taste. These simple ingredients combine to create a vibrant and flavorful dish you can’t resist.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Noodles
First, you need to boil the noodles. Fill a large pot with water and add salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil. Then, add 200g of dried egg noodles. Cook them according to the package instructions until they are al dente. This usually takes around 4-6 minutes. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside.
Preparing the Sauce
While the noodles cook, grab a small bowl. In this bowl, combine the following sauce ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon chili sauce (like Sriracha)
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon sugar
Mix all these well and set the bowl aside. This sauce will add a nice kick and flavor to your noodles.
Sautéing Garlic and Chili
Now it’s time to sauté the garlic and chili. In a large frying pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 6 cloves of minced garlic and 1-2 finely sliced red chilies. Cook them for about 1-2 minutes. Keep an eye on them. You want the garlic golden, not burnt. This step will fill your kitchen with an amazing aroma.
Combining and Heating
Next, add the drained noodles to the frying pan. Pour the sauce over the noodles. Toss everything together gently. Make sure the noodles are well coated in the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat the noodles through. This step makes sure every bite is flavorful.
Final Touches
Finally, taste the noodles. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. You can add more chili sauce if you like it spicier. Once you’re happy with the taste, stir in 2 sliced green onions. Plate your garlic chili noodles and garnish with fresh cilantro and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Tips & Tricks
Adjusting Spiciness
To customize the heat level in your dish, start with one red chili. If you want more heat, add another. You can also use chili sauce like Sriracha. Taste the dish as you cook. This way, you’ll find the perfect spice for you. Remember, you can always add more heat, but it’s hard to take it away.
Cooking Timing
Cooking the noodles just right is key. You want them al dente, which means firm to the bite. Follow the package instructions closely. Usually, this takes around 4 to 5 minutes. Keep an eye on them. If they overcook, they can turn mushy. Drain and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process.
Storage Suggestions
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container. Keep them in the fridge for up to three days. When you want to eat them again, reheat in a pan. Add a splash of water or oil to help with the heating. This keeps the noodles from drying out. Enjoy your delicious Garlic Chili Noodles again!
Variations
Protein Additions
You can make Garlic Chili Noodles even better by adding protein. Chicken, shrimp, or tofu all work well. For chicken, use thin strips and cook them until golden. Add them to the pan after the garlic and chilies. For shrimp, toss them in when the garlic is fragrant. They cook fast, about 2-3 minutes. If you prefer tofu, use firm tofu. Cut it into cubes and pan-fry until crispy. Then, mix it with the noodles. These additions bring flavor and make your meal heartier.
Vegetable Options
Adding vegetables boosts nutrition and flavor. You can use bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas. Slice bell peppers thinly and add them with the garlic. Broccoli can be blanched first, then added to the pan. Snap peas add a nice crunch. Toss in any greens you love. Carrots, spinach, or bok choy also fit well. These veggies add color and make your dish more exciting. Plus, they make each bite a bit different!
Gluten-Free Version
To make Garlic Chili Noodles gluten-free, swap out regular noodles. Use rice noodles or gluten-free pasta instead. Check the sauce too. Soy sauce often contains gluten. You can use tamari or coconut aminos as a great substitute. Both give you that savory flavor without gluten. Follow the same cooking steps after making these swaps. Your gluten-free Garlic Chili Noodles will still taste amazing!
Storage Info
Refrigeration
To store your leftovers, let the Garlic Chili Noodles cool first. Then, place them in an airtight container. Make sure to seal it well to keep out air. Store in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat, check for any signs of spoilage. Look for an off smell or unusual texture.
Freezing
If you want to freeze your Garlic Chili Noodles, use a freezer-safe container. Divide the noodles into single servings for easy meals later. Before sealing, remove as much air as possible. This helps prevent freezer burn. You can freeze them for up to a month. Just remember to label the container with the date.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, the best method is using a frying pan. Heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat. Add the noodles and stir gently. This keeps the flavor and texture intact. You could also use a microwave. Just add a splash of water to help steam them. Cover with a damp paper towel to keep moisture in. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until warm.
FAQs
What type of noodles work best for Garlic Chili Noodles?
I like using dried egg noodles for their texture. They soak up sauce well. You can also try rice noodles, udon, or soba. Each type brings a unique taste. Choose what you enjoy most!
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegan. Swap the egg noodles for rice noodles. Use a vegan soy sauce and skip the chili sauce if it’s not vegan. You can add more fresh veggies for a tasty twist!
How long can I store Garlic Chili Noodles?
You can store leftover Garlic Chili Noodles in the fridge for up to three days. Keep them in an airtight container. When reheating, add a splash of water to keep them moist. This way, they taste great again!
Garlic Chili Noodles are simple and packed with flavor. We covered key ingredients, cooking steps, and storage tips. You can easily adjust the spice level and add your favorite proteins or veggies. This dish shines as a quick meal or a tasty leftovers option. Enjoy experimenting with this recipe. Let your creativity flow and make it your own!
