These Sesame Garlic Noodles are tasty and super easy to whip up! With just a few ingredients like sesame oil and garlic, you’ll have a comforting meal in no time.
If you’re like me, you might find yourself sneaking bites right from the pan. They pair perfectly with grilled chicken or veggies, making dinner a breeze!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Noodles: I use thin egg noodles or ramen for a quick cook and nice chewiness. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, rice noodles work great too! Just be mindful of cooking times as they differ.
Sesame Oil: It adds a delicious nutty flavor. If you can’t find it, a mix of vegetable oil and a bit of toasted sesame seeds can give a similar taste. Just use regular oil to fry and add the seeds when serving.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for that pungent kick, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work. Use about 1/8 tsp per clove of fresh garlic for a milder taste.
Broccoli: This adds great color and nutrition. If broccoli isn’t your favorite, try snap peas or bell peppers. They cook quickly and will offer a nice crunch!
Chili Garlic Sauce: It brings heat! If you prefer it mild, you can skip it or replace it with a little black pepper or paprika.
How Can You Get the Noodles Just Right?
Cooking noodles to the perfect texture is key for this dish. Here’s how to make sure they turn out just right:
- Always check the package instructions for timing. Aim for ‘al dente’, which means the noodles should be firm but not hard.
- Reserve a bit of the pasta water before draining; it can help if the noodles seem dry when tossing.
- Rinse the noodles under cold water if you’re not using them immediately, to prevent them from sticking together.
By following these simple steps, you’ll have noodles that are perfectly chewy and ready to soak up that tasty sauce!
How to Make Sesame Garlic Noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Noodles:
- 8 oz thin egg noodles or ramen noodles
For the Stir-Fry:
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup broccoli florets (optional)
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp chili garlic sauce or sriracha (optional for heat)
For Toppings:
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 20 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the noodles and stir-frying the vegetables, followed by a few minutes to mix everything together. It’s a quick and delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Noodles:
Start by cooking the noodles according to the package instructions. Usually, this means boiling them in a pot with water for about 3-5 minutes until they are al dente (firm but cooked through). Once cooked, drain and set them aside.
2. Heating the Oil:
In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. When the oil is hot, you’ll know it’s ready by the shimmery surface.
3. Sautéing the Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté it for about 30 seconds. You want it to be fragrant but not browned, as this can make it bitter.
4. Adding Veggies:
Next, it’s time to add the sliced onions and optional broccoli florets. Stir-fry these veggies together for about 3-5 minutes. They should be tender but still have a bit of crunch—a lovely texture!
5. Mixing the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and chili garlic sauce, if you’re using it. This sauce will bring all the flavors together.
6. Combining Everything:
Add the cooked noodles to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the sauce over the top. Toss everything together gently, making sure the noodles are well-coated and heated through—this should only take a couple of minutes.
7. Garnishing:
Remove the skillet from the heat. Now, sprinkle the sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds over the noodles for that finishing touch.
8. Serving:
These noodles are best enjoyed warm! Serve them up as a simple main dish or as a wonderful side with your favorite protein. Enjoy every bite!
This recipe yields deliciously flavorful noodles that are nutty with hints of garlic, and a beautiful balance from the sauce. The green onions and sesame seeds on top add a lovely freshness and crunch!
Can I Use Different Types of Noodles?
Absolutely! You can substitute the thin egg noodles with rice noodles or even whole wheat noodles for a healthier option. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions!
Can I Add More Veggies?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas. Just be sure to cut them into similar sizes so they cook evenly!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to prevent sticking.
Is This Recipe Vegan?
The recipe can easily be made vegan by ensuring that your hoisin sauce is vegan-friendly (some brands may contain animal products). All other ingredients are plant-based!
