Garlic Chili Oil Noodles

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that packs a punch, you’re in for a treat with these Garlic Chili Oil Noodles. This recipe is one of my go-to favorites because it’s not only easy to whip up, but it also brings so much flavor to the table. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, this dish shines bright and satisfies everyone’s cravings for something savory and a bit spicy.

These Garlic Chili Oil Noodles are perfect for customizing to your taste. You can adjust the spice level or add your favorite veggies to make it your own. It’s all about comfort food that feels special without taking hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 20 minutes, making it a perfect solution for those hectic evenings.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of garlic, scallions, and Korean chili flakes creates an aromatic sauce that will leave your taste buds dancing.
• Family-Friendly: With its delightful flavors and fun texture, this dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Customizable: Feel free to toss in your favorite veggies or adjust the spice level based on your preference!
• Vegan Delight: This recipe is completely plant-based, making it suitable for everyone at the table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that this recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you may already have in your pantry. Each element works together to create a delightful dish full of robust flavors.

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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to get creative! Here are some ideas to change things up:

• Add some greens: Toss in steamed bok choy or spinach for an extra boost of nutrition.
• Make it protein-rich: Stir in tofu or edamame for added protein and texture.
• Switch up the noodles: Try using whole wheat or gluten-free noodles if you prefer!
• Experiment with spices: If you’re feeling adventurous, add a splash of sesame oil or some fresh ginger for an additional layer of flavor.

How to Make Garlic Chili Oil Noodles

Step 1: Make the Aromatic Base

In a small frying pan, heat your cooking oil over very low heat. This gentle heating ensures that the flavors of the garlic and scallions develop without burning. Add the white part of the scallions and minced garlic, sautéing them together for about 5 minutes while stirring constantly. The aim here is to release their wonderful aromas and create a fragrant base for our sauce!

Step 2: Add Sauce Ingredients

Now, increase the heat to medium-low. Stir in your vegetable broth along with light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, Chinese black vinegar, and Korean chili flakes. Simmer this mixture for about 5 minutes while stirring occasionally. This step allows all those delicious flavors to meld together into a rich sauce that will coat our noodles beautifully.

Step 3: Cook the Noodles

While your sauce is simmering away, bring a pot of water to boil and cook your dried ribbon noodles according to package instructions. Once they’re done cooking, make sure to drain them thoroughly. Properly drained noodles will absorb more flavor from our delightful sauce!

Step 4: Combine and Toss

Add those drained noodles directly into your pan with the aromatic sauce. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly so that each noodle gets coated with that lovely garlic chili mixture we’ve created.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

To finish off this beautiful dish, top it with sliced green scallions and toasted sesame seeds. If you’re craving extra heat, sprinkle on some additional chili flakes! Serve hot and enjoy every flavorful bite of these Garlic Chili Oil Noodles!

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Chili Oil Noodles

Making Garlic Chili Oil Noodles is a breeze, but these pro tips can help you elevate your dish to the next level!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and scallions bring vibrant flavors that dried alternatives simply can’t match. They add a fragrant aroma and enhance the overall taste of the dish.

• Adjust Spice Levels: If you’re sensitive to heat, start with less Korean chili powder or flakes. You can always add more at the end, allowing you to control the spice level to your preference.

• Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Follow package instructions carefully and aim for al dente noodles. This texture holds up better when mixed with the sauce, creating a more satisfying bite.

• Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to toss in cooked vegetables or protein alternatives like tofu or tempeh. This not only adds nutrition but also makes the dish heartier and even more delicious.

• Make It Ahead: The sauce can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to a week. Just reheat it when you’re ready to prepare your noodles, making it a perfect quick meal option!

How to Serve Garlic Chili Oil Noodles

Garlic Chili Oil Noodles are not just delicious; they can also be presented beautifully on your dining table! Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped Cilantro: Adds a fresh herbal note that complements the spicy flavors.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice brightens up the dish and adds a zesty kick.
• Sliced Red Peppers: For an extra crunch and color, thinly sliced red peppers make a lovely garnish.

Side Dishes

• Stir-Fried Vegetables: Quick-cooked seasonal veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas tossed in soy sauce make a colorful and healthy side.
• Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar adds a crisp contrast to the warmth of the noodles.
• Edamame: Steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt offers a satisfying protein boost while being easy to prepare.
• Spring Rolls: Light and crispy spring rolls filled with fresh vegetables serve as an excellent appetizer that pairs perfectly with these flavorful noodles.

With these serving suggestions, your Garlic Chili Oil Noodles will not only taste fantastic but look stunning on any table! Enjoy creating this delicious meal for yourself and your loved ones.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Garlic Chili Oil Noodles are not only quick to prepare but also fantastic for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch in advance and enjoy them throughout the week. Here’s how to store and reheat your noodles.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the noodles to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Follow the same cooling instructions as for storing leftovers.
• Transfer the noodles to a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For refrigerated noodles, simply heat them in a pan over low-medium heat until warmed through.
• If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator or use a microwave.
• Add a splash of vegetable broth or water while reheating if they seem dry.

FAQs

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

Can I customize the heat level in Garlic Chili Oil Noodles?

Absolutely! You can adjust the amount of Korean chili flakes to suit your spice preference. Start with less and add more if you like it spicier!

What can I serve with Garlic Chili Oil Noodles?

These noodles pair beautifully with steamed vegetables, tofu, or even grilled chicken alternatives for a balanced meal. They also make a great side dish!

Are Garlic Chili Oil Noodles vegan-friendly?

Yes! This recipe is entirely plant-based, making it perfect for anyone following a vegan diet.

How long do Garlic Chili Oil Noodles last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, they will last about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Can I use other types of noodles for this recipe?

Definitely! Feel free to swap out ribbon noodles for any noodle type you prefer, such as rice noodles or udon, keeping cooking times in mind.

Final Thoughts

I hope you give these Garlic Chili Oil Noodles a try! They’re not just delicious but also versatile and easy to prepare. Whether as a main course or a side dish, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences or variations—it brings me joy to know how you make this dish your own!