Shallot Chili Oil Noodles

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that packs a punch, these Shallot Chili Oil Noodles are the answer! This recipe is a favorite of mine because it comes together in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when time is tight. The warmth of the shallots combined with the heat from the chili oil creates a comforting dish that’s sure to impress your family or friends. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting a casual dinner, these noodles always hit the spot.

What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity and versatility. You can whip it up in no time with just a few ingredients, and it’s easily customizable to fit your taste. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this dish even more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish is ready in just 15 minutes, making it an ideal choice for those hectic days.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of shallots, garlic, and spices creates an explosion of flavor that will keep you coming back for more.
• Vegan-Friendly: Made without any animal products, this recipe fits perfectly into a plant-based diet.
• Easy to Customize: You can adjust the spice level and toppings to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a gathering with friends, these noodles will always be a hit!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these spicy shallot chili oil noodles, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need:

For the Noodles

• 5-6 ounces noodles (cooked according to package instructions)
• 1 large shallot (finely diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (finely minced)

For the Sauce

• 2 Tablespoons oil (I used avocado oil)
• 1 teaspoon red chili flakes (reduce to 1/2 teaspoon for a less spicy dish)
• 1 teaspoon gochugaru (reduce to 1/2 teaspoon for a less spicy dish)
• 1-1 1/2 Tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 Tablespoon dark soy sauce
• 1/2 Tablespoon black vinegar
• 1/2 Tablespoon brown sugar

For Serving

• Diced scallions (optional)
• Chili crisp (optional)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to experiment with different ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Here are some ideas:

• Add Protein: Toss in some cooked tofu or edamame for an extra boost of protein.
• Load Up on Veggies: Include sautéed bell peppers, bok choy, or snap peas for added texture and nutrition.
• Switch Up the Noodles: Try using rice noodles or whole grain alternatives for different flavors and textures.
• Make it Creamy: Stir in a splash of coconut milk for a rich and creamy texture that balances out the spiciness.

How to Make Shallot Chili Oil Noodles

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Start by boiling water in a large pot. Once it’s bubbling away, add your noodles and cook them according to the package instructions. This usually takes about 5-12 minutes depending on your noodle type. When they’re done, drain them and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Shallot Chili Oil Sauce

While your noodles are cooking, it’s time to prepare the flavorful sauce! Dice up that shallot and mince your garlic. Heat oil in a saucepan over medium heat until hot; then add the shallots and garlic. Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes until they’re fragrant but not burnt—this step brings out their natural sweetness!

Step 3: Add Spice

Once your shallots are translucent and aromatic, sprinkle in those red chili flakes and gochugaru. Sauté everything together for another 30 seconds. The aroma will be heavenly! Remember to turn off the heat before anything burns.

Step 4: Mix in Sauces and Sugar

Now it’s time to add all those delicious sauces! Pour in the soy sauce, dark soy sauce, black vinegar, and brown sugar. Stir everything together until well mixed and let it simmer gently for about one minute so that sugar dissolves completely.

Step 5: Combine Noodles with Sauce

With your sauce ready, toss those drained noodles into the pan! Gently mix them in with the sauce until they are fully coated. This is where all those flavors meld beautifully together.

Step 6: Serve It Up!

Your Shallot Chili Oil Noodles are ready to shine! Serve them hot out of the pan, optionally topped with freshly chopped scallions and chili crisp if you’re feeling adventurous. Enjoy every spicy bite!

Now you have an easy-to-follow guide on how to create this delightful dish at home! Enjoy making these Shallot Chili Oil Noodles as much as I do!

Pro Tips for Making Shallot Chili Oil Noodles

Making these shallot chili oil noodles is a breeze, but with a few insider tips, you can elevate your dish even more!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh shallots and garlic bring out vibrant flavors that dried or older ingredients can’t match. This will enhance the overall taste of your noodles.

• Control the spice level: Adjusting the amount of red chili flakes and gochugaru allows you to cater to your personal heat preference. Start low and taste as you go to find your perfect balance!

• Get the oil hot enough: Ensuring that your oil is hot before sautéing the shallots and garlic helps release their essential oils. This step is key to achieving that rich, aromatic flavor in your sauce.

• Don’t skip the sugar: A touch of brown sugar helps balance out the savory and spicy elements in your dish, creating a more harmonious flavor profile. It’s a small addition that makes a big difference!

• Toss well: When mixing the cooked noodles with the sauce, be sure to toss thoroughly for even coating. This ensures every bite is bursting with flavor!

How to Serve Shallot Chili Oil Noodles

Presentation can make a world of difference when serving up these delicious noodles! Here are some ideas on how to serve them beautifully.

Garnishes

• Diced scallions: Freshly chopped scallions add a lovely crunch and fresh flavor that complements the spiciness of the dish.

• Chili crisp: For those who enjoy an extra kick, a drizzle of chili crisp on top adds both texture and additional heat.

• Sesame seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds can provide a delightful nutty flavor and appealing visual contrast.

Side Dishes

• Steamed bok choy: Lightly steamed bok choy offers a refreshing green element that balances the richness of the noodles.

• Cucumber salad: A simple salad made from sliced cucumbers dressed in rice vinegar adds crunch and acidity, which pairs wonderfully with the spicy noodles.

• Vegetable spring rolls: These crispy rolls filled with fresh veggies make for a satisfying side, offering both texture and lightness alongside your main dish.

• Miso soup: A warm bowl of miso soup is comforting and complements the bold flavors of the shallot chili oil noodles perfectly.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re set to impress anyone who tries your Shallot Chili Oil Noodles! Enjoy this delightful meal any day of the week!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Shallot Chili Oil Noodles are not only quick to prepare but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch in advance, making it a convenient option for busy days.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the noodles to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• If desired, keep the sauce separate to maintain noodle texture.

Freezing

• Cooked noodles can be frozen along with the sauce for up to 1 month.
• Portion them into freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible.
• Label the containers with the date for easy reference.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen noodles in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Heat in a pan over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if needed.
• For refrigerated leftovers, simply reheat in a pan or microwave until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Shallot Chili Oil Noodles!

Can I use any type of noodles for Shallot Chili Oil Noodles?

Absolutely! You can use any noodles you prefer—rice, wheat, or even gluten-free options work well. Just adjust cooking times according to the package instructions.

How spicy are Shallot Chili Oil Noodles?

The spice level can easily be adjusted. With 1 teaspoon of red chili flakes and gochugaru, they offer a nice kick. If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the spices to 1/2 teaspoon each.

What can I add to Shallot Chili Oil Noodles?

Feel free to customize your dish! Add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for extra nutrition. Tofu or tempeh can also be excellent protein additions.

Are Shallot Chili Oil Noodles suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This recipe is perfect for meal prep. Cook a batch ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer for quick meals later!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Shallot Chili Oil Noodles as much as I do! They’re not only packed with flavor but also incredibly simple to whip up. Whether you’re preparing them for lunch or dinner, they’re sure to become a favorite in your home. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences with this delightful dish!