There’s something magical about the sizzle of garlic meeting hot oil, releasing its aromatic essence into the air. As I rushed home after a long day, I craved something warm, quick, and ultimately satisfying. That’s when these Quick and Addictive Garlic Chilli Noodles came to mind. With an addictive blend of spices and a savory kick, this dish is not just quick to prepare—it’s bursting with flavor and richly textured.
Made with a thoughtful reduction in oil and the wholesome addition of vegetable broth, these noodles are a delightful, guilt-free escape from typical takeout options. If you’re searching for a meal that brings joy, comfort, and a hint of spice to your dinner table, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into this vibrant recipe that’s sure to become a weeknight staple!
Why Choose Chili Garlic Noodles (With Knife-Cut Noodles!)?
Indulge in the vibrant allure of Chili Garlic Noodles (With Knife-Cut Noodles!)!
- Quick to Prepare: This recipe needs less than 10 minutes, making it a fantastic option for those busy nights when you want deliciousness without the wait.
- Satisfying Flavor: With a perfect balance of spicy garlic and savory depth, every bite is a delightful experience that will tickle your taste buds.
- Nutritious Twist: By using vegetable broth and reducing oil, you can enjoy all the flavors without the guilt—it’s a win-win!
- Versatile Dish: Whether you’re craving a light meal or want to add some proteins and veggies, this recipe is adaptable to your liking.
- Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for dinner parties or a family meal, these noodles are sure to impress everyone at the table!
If you’re looking to go beyond this flavor-packed recipe, check out our links for more exciting vegetarian dinner ideas.
Chili Garlic Noodles Ingredients
For the Noodles
• Dried Ribbon Noodles (300g) – Essential for that delightful chewiness; feel free to substitute with ramen noodles for an equally satisfying texture.For the Sauce
• Cooking Oil (1½ Tbsp) – Use a neutral oil like grapeseed or canola for Sautéing aromatics; allows the garlic to shine.
• Scallions (½ Cup, thinly sliced white part) – These add a depth of flavor; remember to save the green parts for garnish!
• Minced Garlic (1½ Tbsp or 4 cloves) – Fresh garlic is a must; it delivers a powerful kick that’s key to the sauce.
• Vegetable Broth (¼ Cup, low-sodium) – A great way to add moisture with reduced oil content; it’s the secret to a savory depth.
• Light Soy Sauce (2 Tbsp) – Boosts umami flavor; it’s a must-have for achieving that rich sauce base!
• Dark Soy Sauce (1 Tbsp) – Don’t skip this; it offers a deeper color and flavor to your dish.
• Chinese Black Vinegar (1 Tbsp) – Essential for a tangy finish; opt for KONG YEN brand for the best results.
• Korean Chilli Powder/Flakes (1 Tbsp) – This gives the dish its mild heat and vibrant color; adjust for your spice preferences.For Garnish
• Scallions (¼ Cup, sliced green part) – Perfect for adding a burst of color and flavor to the final dish.
• Toasted Sesame Seeds (1 Tbsp) – Adds a lovely nutty flavor and crunchy texture; a delightful finishing touch.
• Additional Chilli Flakes (optional) – For those who crave an extra kick—perfect for spice lovers!
Embrace the wonderful flavors of Chili Garlic Noodles and elevate your dinner with a dish that’s quick to both prepare and devour!
How to Make Chili Garlic Noodles
Sauté Aromatics: In a small frying pan, heat the cooking oil over very low heat. Add in the thinly sliced scallions (white part) and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant but not browned.
Prepare Sauce: While the aromatics are cooking, bring a pot of water to boil for the noodles. After 5 minutes, pour the vegetable broth, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, Chinese black vinegar, and Korean chilli powder/flakes into the pan. Increase the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for another 5 minutes.
Cook Noodles: In the pot of boiling water, cook the dried ribbon noodles according to the package instructions, usually around 4-6 minutes, until al dente.
Combine: Once the noodles are ready, drain them well. Add the drained noodles to the garlic chilli sauce and toss until the noodles are completely coated. Garnish with sliced green scallions, toasted sesame seeds, and an extra sprinkle of chilli flakes for an added touch.
Optional: For a fragrant twist, squeeze a bit of lime juice over the finished dish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Chili Garlic Noodles (With Knife-Cut Noodles!)?
Building a delightful meal around these vibrant noodles transforms a quick dinner into a satisfying feast that your taste buds will celebrate.
Toasted Vegetable Spring Rolls: Crispy on the outside and packed with fresh vegetables, these rolls make a perfect crunchy contrast to the noodles’ chewiness.
Simple Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad with crisp cucumbers and a light vinegar dressing adds a cooling touch that balances the spice of the noodles beautifully.
Homemade Pickled Radishes: These tangy, crunchy pickles provide a zesty kick that elevates the flavors and complements the savory depth of the dish.
Sesame Tofu Bites: Crispy, golden tofu bites drizzled with a light sesame sauce make for an excellent protein addition, enhancing the meal’s satisfaction.
Chili Garlic Edamame: Steamed and tossed in a similar chili garlic seasoning, these edamame are a fun and flavorful way to add more of that irresistible heat.
Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet and creamy dish serves as a wonderful contrast to the savory noodles, intriguing every palate with a bit of sweetness.
Each of these pairings brings its own unique texture and flavor to the table, ensuring that your dining experience is truly special with every bite of those Chili Garlic Noodles!
Expert Tips for Chili Garlic Noodles
- Watch the Heat: Keep the stove on low while sautéing garlic and scallions to prevent burning; burnt garlic adds an unpleasant bitterness.
- Adjust Spice to Taste: Start with the recommended amount of Korean chilli powder; you can always add more if you like it spicier.
- Proper Drainage: Ensure your noodles are well-drained after cooking to allow the flavors of the sauce to cling effectively; excess water can dilute the taste.
- Flavor Enhancements: Experiment with add-ins like pan-fried tofu or vegetables to elevate the nutritional profile and add texture; they pair beautifully with Chili Garlic Noodles.
- Make it Ahead: If preparing in advance, store the noodles and sauce separately to maintain freshness and texture, then combine just before serving.
How to Store and Freeze Chili Garlic Noodles
Room Temperature: Best enjoyed fresh; however, if needed, they can sit out for no more than 2 hours before they start losing flavor and texture.
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of vegetable broth or water to reignite their delicious flavors.
Freezer: Not recommended for freezing as the noodles may lose their texture, but if you must, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: When reheating Chili Garlic Noodles, add a little moisture to the pan to prevent drying out, stirring until heated through.
Make Ahead Options
These Chili Garlic Noodles are fantastic for meal prep and can save you time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the sauce components (soffrito and broth mixture) up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, cook the dried ribbon noodles ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. To maintain the noodles’ quality, toss them with a little oil to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce, cook the noodles for a minute to warm them up, and combine everything for a quick, delicious meal that feels fresh and homemade!
Chili Garlic Noodles (With Knife-Cut Noodles!) Variations
Embark on a culinary adventure by customizing your Chili Garlic Noodles to suit your taste and pantry!
- Protein Boost: Add cubes of pan-fried tofu or crispy chickpeas for a hearty protein addition and delightful texture.
- Veggie Delight: Toss in blanched bok choy, mushrooms, or julienned carrots for vibrant colors and added nutrition.
- Noodle Twist: Use fresh egg noodles or whole wheat noodles in place of dried ribbon noodles for a different chew.
- Spicy Kick: Substitute Korean chilli powder with cayenne for a fiery heat that warms up the dish beautifully.
- Flavor Infusion: Enhance the sauce by incorporating a splash of lime juice or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a refreshing twist.
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap dried ribbon noodles for gluten-free rice noodles, and ensure soy sauce is gluten-free for a safe alternative.
- Creamy Texture: Add a spoonful of peanut butter or tahini into the sauce for a rich, creamy layer of flavor and indulgence.
- Stock Substitute: Replace vegetable broth with mushroom broth to enhance the umami flavor and add an earthy depth to the dish.
Chili Garlic Noodles (With Knife-Cut Noodles!) Recipe FAQs
How can I choose ripe and fresh ingredients for Chili Garlic Noodles?
Absolutely! When selecting scallions, look for firm green tops and crisp white parts without any dark spots. For garlic, opt for fresh cloves that are plump and firm. Avoid any that feel soft or have started to sprout. Fresh vegetable broth is important too; check the expiration date if it’s store-bought.
How should I store leftover Chili Garlic Noodles?
You can keep the noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure they are completely cool before sealing the container to avoid excess moisture. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or water for the best texture.
Can I freeze Chili Garlic Noodles?
While freezing is not recommended because it can affect the noodles’ texture, if necessary, you can freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. To thaw, place them in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a skillet with a bit of vegetable broth or water to restore moisture.
What should I do if my Garlic Chilli Sauce is too salty?
Very! If you find your sauce a bit too salty, you can balance it by adding a splash of vegetable broth or a teaspoon of sugar to cut the saltiness. Additionally, serving with a side of fresh salad or steamed veggies can also help mitigate the saltiness of the dish.
Are there any dietary considerations for Chili Garlic Noodles?
Absolutely! This recipe is vegan-friendly, but be mindful of any allergies to soy if you’re using soy sauce. For those with gluten sensitivities, substitute with gluten-free noodles and tamari for a delicious alternative. If serving to pets, avoid giving them the garlic, as it’s not suitable for them.
Can I add more spice to my Chili Garlic Noodles?
Certainly! If you like it spicy, feel free to increase the amount of Korean chili powder or add additional chili flakes at the end. Remember, the more chili you add, the more flavorful your dish will be!
Satisfy Your Cravings with Chili Garlic Noodles (Knife-Cut!)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small frying pan, heat the cooking oil over very low heat. Add in the thinly sliced scallions (white part) and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant but not browned.
- While the aromatics are cooking, bring a pot of water to boil for the noodles. After 5 minutes, pour the vegetable broth, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, Chinese black vinegar, and Korean chilli powder/flakes into the pan. Increase heat to medium-low and let it simmer for another 5 minutes.
- In the pot of boiling water, cook the dried ribbon noodles according to the package instructions, usually around 4-6 minutes, until al dente.
- Once the noodles are ready, drain them well. Add the drained noodles to the garlic chilli sauce and toss until the noodles are completely coated. Garnish with sliced green scallions, toasted sesame seeds, and an extra sprinkle of chilli flakes.
Leave a Reply