Garlic Chili Oil Noodles

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that brings all the comforting flavors of restaurant-style dishes right to your kitchen, then these Garlic Chili Oil Noodles are just what you need! This recipe has become a beloved staple in my home, especially on busy weeknights when I want something easy yet satisfying. With its bold garlic aroma and spicy kick, it’s not just a dish; it’s an experience that warms your heart and fills your belly.

What I love most about these noodles is their versatility. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an impromptu gathering with friends, this dish fits right in. Plus, you can adjust the heat level to suit everyone’s taste buds—making it perfect for all occasions!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: Ready in just 20 minutes, this recipe is perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Flavor-packed: The combination of garlic, soy sauce, and Korean chili flakes creates a mouthwatering sauce you won’t forget.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level or add veggies to make it your own!
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy these delicious noodles.
• Make-ahead option: Whip up the sauce in advance for an even quicker meal!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Garlic Chili Oil Noodles come together with simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Let’s take a look at what you’ll 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 they are! Here are a few ways you can mix things up:

• Add some protein: Toss in cooked tofu or tempeh to make it more filling.
• Veggie overload: Incorporate vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for added crunch and nutrition.
• Switch up the noodles: Use any type of noodle you prefer—rice noodles or whole wheat spaghetti work great too!
• Experiment with flavors: Try adding fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for a burst of freshness.

How to Make Garlic Chili Oil Noodles

Step 1: Make the Aromatic Base

In a small frying pan, heat cooking oil over very low heat. This gentle approach allows the flavors to infuse slowly without burning. Add the white part of the scallions and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly. You want them fragrant but not browned—this step sets up the flavor foundation for your sauce!

Step 2: Add Sauce Ingredients

Now it’s time to amp up those flavors! Increase the heat to medium-low and stir in vegetable broth, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, Chinese black vinegar, and Korean chili flakes. Let this simmer for about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure everything melds beautifully together.

Step 3: Cook the Noodles

While your sauce is simmering away, cook your noodles according to package instructions in a pot of boiling water. Once they’re al dente, drain thoroughly. This step is crucial as you want well-cooked noodles that will soak up all that delicious sauce.

Step 4: Combine and Toss

Add those freshly drained noodles into the pan with your aromatic sauce. Toss them well until they are evenly coated with that lovely garlic chili mixture. This step makes sure every bite is bursting with flavor!

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Top your dish with the green part of the scallions, toasted sesame seeds, and if you’re feeling adventurous—extra chili flakes for more heat! Serve hot and enjoy every last forkful of this delightful meal.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: Chinese-Inspired, Asian Fusion
Servings: 2–3
Calories: ~450 per serving (estimated)

Now that you’ve got this simple yet flavorful recipe in hand, I hope you enjoy making these Garlic Chili Oil Noodles as much as I do!

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Chili Oil Noodles

Cooking these Garlic Chili Oil Noodles at home can be a delightful experience, especially with a few handy tips to elevate your dish!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and scallions make a significant difference in flavor. They add brightness and depth that dried or older ingredients simply can’t match.

• Adjust the spice level: If you’re sensitive to heat, start with less Korean chili powder and gradually add more until it meets your preference. This way, you ensure the dish is perfectly tailored to your taste.

• Don’t rush the aromatics: Sautéing the scallions and garlic over low heat allows their flavors to develop fully without burning. This step creates a rich base that enhances the overall taste of the noodles.

• Experiment with noodles: While ribbon noodles are delicious, feel free to swap them for any noodle type you love—rice noodles or soba could work beautifully too! Each brings its own texture and flavor profile.

• Make it a meal: To transform this dish into a more substantial meal, consider adding protein like tofu or tempeh. Just sauté them before adding the sauce for an even more satisfying experience.

How to Serve Garlic Chili Oil Noodles

Serving these Garlic Chili Oil Noodles can be as creative as you want! Here are some ideas to make your dish visually appealing and even more delicious.

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: Adding fresh cilantro imparts a bright herby flavor that complements the richness of the sauce.
• Lime wedges: A squeeze of lime juice right before serving can brighten up the dish and add a zesty kick.
• Crushed peanuts: For an extra crunch, sprinkle some crushed peanuts on top—this adds texture and richness that balances well with the noodles.

Side Dishes

• Stir-fried vegetables: Quick stir-fried seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas provide a colorful and nutritious side that enhances your meal’s healthfulness.

• Cucumber salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar and sesame oil adds brightness and contrast to the spiciness of the noodles.

• Edamame: Steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt makes for an easy protein-packed side that complements the flavors of your main dish wonderfully.

By following these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll not only enjoy making Garlic Chili Oil Noodles but also impress your family or guests with a beautiful presentation! Bon appétit!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Garlic Chili Oil Noodles are perfect for meal prep! You can whip them up in advance for busy weeknights or enjoy leftovers for lunch. Here’s how to store and reheat them properly.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the noodles to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer the noodles and sauce into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the noodles cool completely.
• Portion them into freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed.
• Stir until heated through, then serve with fresh garnishes!

FAQs

Got questions about Garlic Chili Oil Noodles? We’ve got answers!

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

Absolutely! You can easily modify the amount of Korean chili flakes according to your heat preference. Start with less and gradually add more as you taste.

What type of noodles can I use for Garlic Chili Oil Noodles?

While ribbon noodles are recommended, you can substitute them with any pasta you have on hand, such as spaghetti or rice noodles. Just adjust cooking times accordingly!

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

These noodles can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making them great for meal prep!

Can I make Garlic Chili Oil Noodles vegan?

Yes! This recipe is already vegan-friendly since it doesn’t contain any animal products. Enjoy guilt-free!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing these Garlic Chili Oil Noodles at home! They’re not only quick and easy but also bursting with flavor that will warm your heart. Whether you’re enjoying them as a main dish or a side, these noodles are sure to impress friends and family alike. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait for you to try this delightful recipe!