Garlic Chili Oil Noodles
Introduction
Garlic chili oil noodles are a delightful dish that beautifully blends flavors and textures. This recipe elevates simple noodles with the sharpness of garlic and the heat of chili, creating a simple yet satisfying meal. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting snack at any time. Let’s dive into the ingredients and preparation needed to make this delicious dish.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Noodles: 8 ounces of your choice of noodles
Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
Chili oil: 3 tablespoons
Soy sauce: 2 tablespoons
Sesame oil: 1 teaspoon
Green onions: 2, finely chopped
Salt: to taste
Pepper: to taste
Prep Time
The preparation time for garlic chili oil noodles is approximately 10 minutes. This short prep time allows you to quickly whip up the dish, making it a great option for busy days.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time for this dish is about 10 minutes, leading to a total time of around 20 minutes from start to finish. This recipe yields about 2 servings, perfect for sharing or enjoying leftovers.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Noodles
Cook the noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain them and set aside.
Make the Garlic Chili Oil
In a small saucepan, combine oil, minced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, and other desired spices. Heat the mixture over medium heat until the garlic is golden brown and fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Combine Noodles and Oil
In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked noodles with the garlic chili oil. Ensure the noodles are evenly coated in the oil mixture.
Add Additional Ingredients
Incorporate any additional ingredients such as vegetables, proteins, or garnishes. Mix well to combine everything thoroughly.
Adjust Flavor
Taste the noodles and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding salt, pepper, or more chili flakes according to your preference.
Serve
Plate the noodles and serve immediately, garnished with any desired toppings such as green onions or sesame seeds.
Notes
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a pan or microwave before serving.
Customizing Heat Level
Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes based on your heat preference. You can start with a small amount and gradually increase it.
Oil Variation
Different oils can be experimented with, such as sesame oil or avocado oil, for a unique flavor profile.
Vegetable Options
Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli for added nutrition and texture.
Protein Additions
This dish pairs well with various proteins; consider adding tofu, chicken, or shrimp for a heartier meal.
Cook techniques
1. Preparing Garlic Infusion
To create a robust garlic flavor, gently cook minced garlic in oil over low heat. This slow cooking allows the garlic to infuse the oil without burning, providing a rich taste.
2. Making Chili Oil
Combine oil with dried chili flakes and heat gently. Ensuring the oil is not too hot will prevent the chili from becoming bitter. This technique creates a vibrant, spicy oil for drizzling.
3. Cooking Noodles
Boil water and add noodles, cooking until al dente. Drain and rinse briefly with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.
4. Tossing Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles with garlic-infused oil and chili oil. Gently toss to ensure an even coating on the noodles while keeping them intact.
5. Serving Suggestions
Serve the noodles warm, garnished with fresh herbs or sliced scallions for added flavor and presentation.
FAQ
What type of noodles can I use?
You can use various types of noodles, such as egg noodles, rice noodles, or wheat noodles, depending on your preference.
Can I adjust the spice level?
Yes, you can increase or decrease the amount of chili flakes used in the oil to suit your taste.
How can I store leftover garlic chili oil?
Store garlic chili oil in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing.
Is it possible to add other ingredients to the noodles?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables, proteins, or other seasonings based on your taste preferences.
Can I make the garlic chili oil ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the garlic chili oil ahead and store it in the refrigerator for later use.
What dishes pair well with garlic chili oil noodles?
These noodles pair well with stir-fried vegetables, grilled meats, or can be enjoyed as a standalone dish.
Conclusion
Garlic chili oil noodles are a delightful and simple dish that combines bold flavors with minimal effort. This recipe is versatile, allowing for customization to suit your taste preferences. Whether enjoyed as a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful side dish, these noodles are sure to satisfy your cravings.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Spicy Garlic Shrimp
Add sautéed shrimp to your garlic chili oil noodles for a protein-packed meal that complements the existing flavors beautifully.
Vegetable Stir-Fry
Toss in your choice of vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas to create a colorful and nutritious addition to the dish.
Sesame Cucumber Salad
Serve a refreshing cucumber salad dressed with sesame oil and rice vinegar on the side to balance the heat of the noodles.
Egg Drop Soup
Pair the noodles with a light egg drop soup for a comforting and satisfying combination.
Baked Teriyaki Chicken
The sweetness of teriyaki chicken pairs well with the spicy noodles, making for a delightful and hearty meal.
Crispy Tofu
For a vegetarian option, add crispy tofu for added texture and flavor that complements the chili oil.
