Garlic Chili Oil Noodles

If you’re craving a dish with bold flavors and a bit of heat, Garlic Chili Oil Noodles are the perfect choice. This recipe combines the rich aroma of garlic, the heat of chili oil, and the satisfying texture of noodles for a quick, easy meal. Not only is this dish incredibly flavorful, but it’s also simple to make with pantry staples. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious, spicy noodle dish!

Ingredients

For this recipe, you’ll need:

• 8 oz of noodles (any type of noodle will work, but wide, flat noodles are ideal)
• 4 cloves of garlic, finely minced
• 2 tbsp chili oil (adjust to your heat preference)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium, if preferred)
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp sugar (optional, for a hint of sweetness)
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (for extra heat, optional)
• 2 green onions, chopped
• Sesame seeds, for garnish

Optional Add-ins

• Sliced vegetables (like bell peppers or carrots)
• Protein (such as grilled chicken, tofu, or shrimp)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles

1. Boil a pot of water, add the noodles, and cook according to package instructions. Aim for a chewy, al dente texture.
2. Drain and set the noodles aside, reserving a small amount of the cooking water in case you need it to thin out the sauce later.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Chili Oil Sauce

1. In a small bowl, combine the chili oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and sugar (if using). Stir until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture. Stir well, ensuring the garlic is evenly distributed.

Step 3: Combine and Serve

1. In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked noodles with the garlic chili oil sauce until evenly coated.
2. If needed, add a bit of the reserved noodle cooking water to thin the sauce.
3. Toss in the chopped green onions and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy your Garlic Chili Oil Noodles hot!

Tips for the Best Garlic Chili Oil Noodles

1. Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of chili oil or red pepper flakes.
2. Add Vegetables: Sautéed bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas add a nice crunch and extra flavor.
3. Protein Options: Add grilled chicken, tofu, or shrimp for a more filling meal.
4. Experiment with Noodles: While flat noodles are ideal, you can also use spaghetti, ramen, or rice noodles.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe is ready in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level, add veggies, or include your favorite protein to make it your own.
• Deliciously Spicy: The garlic chili oil adds a bold, spicy kick that’s perfectly balanced by the soy sauce and sesame oil.

Nutrition Information

• Calories: Approximately 350 per serving (without add-ins)
• Protein: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 2g

Conclusion

Garlic Chili Oil Noodles are a fantastic go-to recipe for those who love a bit of spice and bold flavors. With minimal prep and a quick cooking time, this dish will soon become a household favorite. Perfect as a main dish or a side, these noodles are a versatile and satisfying option for any meal. Try it today and enjoy the irresistible taste of homemade garlic chili noodles!

Serving and Storage Tips for Garlic Chili Oil Noodles

Serving Tips

• Top with Fresh Herbs: For a fresh touch, garnish with chopped cilantro or basil leaves. This adds a bit of color and complements the chili and garlic flavors well.
• Add Crunchy Toppings: A sprinkle of roasted peanuts or crispy fried shallots adds a delightful crunch.
• Pair with a Side: Serve these noodles with a light side salad, steamed dumplings, or a bowl of miso soup for a balanced meal.

Storage Tips

1. Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. The flavors will deepen over time, making them even tastier the next day!
2. Reheating: To reheat, warm the noodles in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or a bit more chili oil to loosen up the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, until heated through.
3. Freezing: While freezing is possible, it can slightly change the texture of the noodles. If you choose to freeze, store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Tips for Freshness

• Store Sauce Separately: If you plan to make a big batch, consider storing the chili oil sauce separately from the noodles. This way, you can cook fresh noodles and add the sauce when ready to eat, preserving the ideal texture.

Garlic Chili Oil Noodles are as convenient to store as they are to make, letting you enjoy this flavorful meal even on your busiest days!

1. Can I make Garlic Chili Oil Noodles gluten-free?

• Absolutely! Simply substitute the noodles with a gluten-free variety, like rice noodles or gluten-free soba. Additionally, make sure to use gluten-free soy sauce (like tamari) to keep the dish completely gluten-free.

1. How do I adjust the spice level?

• To make the noodles milder, reduce the amount of chili oil or omit the red pepper flakes. For more heat, add extra chili oil or increase the red pepper flakes. You can also add fresh sliced chili peppers if you love it extra spicy!

1. What other proteins work well with this dish?

• Garlic Chili Oil Noodles pair wonderfully with grilled or stir-fried chicken, shrimp, tofu, or beef. For a quick and satisfying meal, you can even add a fried egg on top for extra protein and flavor.

1. Can I use store-bought chili oil?

• Yes, store-bought chili oil works well and is convenient. If you’d like to customize the flavor, try making homemade chili oil with your preferred level of spice and aromatics, like adding Sichuan peppercorns or star anise for an extra depth of flavor.

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