Easy Asian Garlic Noodles
Introduction
Asian garlic noodles are a delightful dish that combines the umami flavors of garlic, soy sauce, and butter with the texture of perfectly cooked noodles. This recipe is easy to follow and yields a remarkably delicious meal that can be enjoyed as a main dish or a side. The aromatic garlic together with the richness of butter creates a comforting dish that captures the essence of Asian cuisine.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Noodles – 8 ounces of noodles of your choice
Garlic – 6 cloves, minced
Butter – 4 tablespoons unsalted
Soy sauce – ¼ cup
Oyster sauce – 2 tablespoons
Sugar – 1 tablespoon
Green onions – 2, sliced for garnish
Sesame seeds – optional, for garnish
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Asian garlic noodles are not only simple to prepare, but they also offer a deliciously rich flavor that is sure to satisfy your taste buds. Enjoy this recipe as a quick weeknight dinner or serve it at your next gathering for a crowd-pleasing dish.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add your choice of noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, garlic, and sugar. Mix well until the sugar dissolves completely.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a splash of vegetable oil. Once hot, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and golden brown, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 4: Combine Noodles and Sauce
Add the drained noodles to the skillet with the sautéed garlic. Pour the prepared sauce over the noodles and toss well to coat the noodles evenly with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your easy Asian garlic noodles.
Notes
Note 1: Noodle Variations
Feel free to use any type of noodles such as egg noodles, rice noodles, or even spaghetti for a different twist.
Note 2: Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or oil.
Note 3: Customize the Dish
You can add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas to make the dish more colorful and nutritious. Sauté them along with the garlic before adding the noodles.
Note 4: Adjusting Spice Level
For a spicier version, consider adding red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil to the sauce mixture.
Cook techniques
Stir-Frying
Stir-frying is a quick and efficient cooking technique that involves cooking food over high heat in a small amount of oil while stirring constantly. This method is ideal for noodles as it helps to achieve a nice texture and flavor.
Garlic Infusion
Infusing garlic in oil before adding other ingredients enhances the overall flavor of the dish. It’s important to cook the garlic just until fragrant to avoid burning, which can create a bitter taste.
Noodle Preparation
For the best texture, choose fresh or properly cooked noodles. Be mindful of cooking them al dente, as they will continue to cook when mixed with the other ingredients in the stir-frying process.
Sauce Mixing
Combining sauces and seasonings before adding them to the stir-fry helps to ensure an even distribution of flavor. It’s best to blend all the sauce ingredients in a bowl prior to cooking.
Garnishing
Adding garnishes such as chopped green onions or sesame seeds at the end of cooking adds a fresh touch and enhances the visual appeal of the dish.
FAQ
Can I use different types of noodles?
Yes, you can substitute other kinds of noodles such as rice noodles or udon, but cooking times may vary.
Is this dish gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free noodles and ensure that your sauces are also gluten-free.
Can I add vegetables to the garlic noodles?
Absolutely! You can customize the dish by adding vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or carrots during the stir-frying process.
How can I make this dish spicier?
You can add red pepper flakes, sriracha, or chili paste to the sauce mixture for an added kick.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave for best results.
Conclusion
The Easy Asian Garlic Noodles recipe is a delightful blend of flavors that can easily be adapted to suit various tastes. With its simple preparation and rich garlic flavor, this dish makes for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying side. The versatility of the noodles allows for endless possibilities with different ingredients and pairings.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Shrimp Stir-Fry
Pair your garlic noodles with a quick shrimp stir-fry for a protein-packed meal. Toss shrimp with vegetables like bell peppers and broccoli, seasoned with soy sauce and ginger.
Vegetable Spring Rolls
Serve the noodles alongside fresh vegetable spring rolls for a refreshing appetizer. Use rice paper to wrap a mix of your favorite vegetables and herbs.
Teriyaki Chicken
Complement your noodles with teriyaki chicken. The sweet and savory sauce pairs perfectly with the garlicky flavors of the noodles.
Beef Bulgogi
For a hearty meal, try beef bulgogi. The marinated beef adds a rich flavor that balances well with the Asian garlic noodles.
Sesame Cucumber Salad
A light sesame cucumber salad can provide a crisp contrast to the warm noodles. Toss sliced cucumbers with sesame oil, vinegar, and sesame seeds for a refreshing side dish.
Kimchi
Add a side of kimchi for a spicy and tangy flavor. This fermented dish complements the richness of the garlic noodles beautifully.
