Chili Garlic Udon Noodles
These Chili Garlic Udon Noodles are a quick and flavorful dish that packs a punch of umami goodness. Perfect for busy weeknights or any time you crave a savory bowl of noodles, this recipe is as easy to make as it is delicious. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a satisfying meal that combines the bold flavors of garlic and chili in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or impressing guests, these noodles are sure to be a hit.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 10 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for those busy evenings.
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of garlic, chili oil, and soy sauce creates an irresistible umami flavor that tantalizes your taste buds.
- Customizable: Adjust the heat level by adding more chili flakes or spice up with your favorite vegetables for added nutrition.
- Single Serving: Perfectly portioned for one, ensuring no leftovers and no waste.
- Vegetarian-Friendly: A simple yet satisfying option for anyone following a vegetarian diet.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential kitchen tools to make the preparation smooth and efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Small saucepan
- Heatproof bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Used for boiling udon noodles until they reach the perfect tenderness.
- Small saucepan: Ideal for heating oil safely without overcrowding your cooking area.
- Heatproof bowl: Essential for mixing hot oil with other ingredients without risk of melting or damage.
Ingredients
These super savory and umami Asian garlic chili udon noodles are super easy and quick to make and perfect as a busy weeknight dinner.
- 300 g udon noodles
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 thumb fresh ginger
- pinch salt
- 1 tbsp chili oil (watch my homemade chinese chili oil)
- 1 tsp chili flakes (if you like the extra heat)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp dark rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp white sesame seeds
- 1 tbsp sliced spring onion greens (garnish)
- 1 tsp black sesame seeds (garnish)
- 4 tbsp granola / peanut oil
- 1 tsp pure sesame oil
- 1 egg
How to Make Chili Garlic Udon Noodles
Step 1: Prepare the Garlic and Ginger Mixture
Finely mince the garlic and fresh ginger. Place them in a heatproof bowl. Add in the chili oil, chili flakes, salt, and white sesame seeds.
Step 2: Heat the Oil
In a small saucepan, heat the granola or peanut oil over medium heat. Watch closely; when the oil starts to smoke slightly, remove it from the stove. Carefully pour it over the garlic mixture in the bowl.
Step 3: Combine Sauces
Add soy sauce, dark rice vinegar, and pure sesame oil to the bowl. Mix all ingredients together until well combined.
Step 4: Cook Udon Noodles
Cook udon noodles according to package instructions until they are soft. Once cooked, drain them thoroughly.
Step 5: Combine Noodles with Sauce
Transfer the drained udon noodles into the bowl with the garlic chili mixture. Toss well to ensure all noodles are evenly coated.
Step 6: Serve with Garnishes
Garnish your dish with a fried egg on top, some sliced spring onion greens, and sprinkle with black sesame seeds. Enjoy your delicious Chili Garlic Udon Noodles!
How to Serve Chili Garlic Udon Noodles
Chili Garlic Udon Noodles are versatile and can be served in various ways to elevate your dining experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that complement the savory flavors of these noodles.
Add a Protein
- Grilled Chicken – Tender grilled chicken adds a nice protein boost and pairs well with the spicy sauce.
- Tofu – For a vegetarian option, crispy fried tofu enhances texture and flavor.
- Shrimp – Sautéed shrimp brings a seafood twist that complements the garlic and chili.
Garnish Creatively
- Cilantro – Fresh cilantro brightens up the dish with its herbal notes.
- Lime Wedges – A squeeze of lime adds acidity and balances the richness of the udon noodles.
- Chili Oil Drizzle – Extra chili oil on top gives an additional kick for spice lovers.
Pair with Broth
- Miso Soup – This warm soup is a comforting side that aligns with Asian flavors.
- Vegetable Broth – A light vegetable broth can refresh your palate between bites of spicy noodles.
How to Perfect Chili Garlic Udon Noodles
To make your Chili Garlic Udon Noodles truly exceptional, follow these tips for perfecting this dish.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh garlic and ginger enhance the overall flavor significantly.
- Control Heat – Adjust the amount of chili oil and flakes according to your personal heat preference.
- Cook Noodles Al Dente – Avoid overcooking udon noodles for the best texture; they should be soft but still slightly chewy.
- Mix Thoroughly – Ensure all ingredients are well combined to evenly distribute flavors across the noodles.
- Experiment with Toppings – Try different garnishes like fried shallots or pickled vegetables for added depth.
Best Side Dishes for Chili Garlic Udon Noodles
Pairing side dishes with your Chili Garlic Udon Noodles can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider:
- Spring Rolls – Crispy spring rolls filled with vegetables provide a crunchy contrast.
- Edamame – Steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt offers a healthy, protein-rich snack.
- Asian Slaw – A tangy slaw made from cabbage and carrots adds freshness and crunch.
- Kimchi – The fermented taste of kimchi complements the umami flavors of udon noodles beautifully.
- Tempura Vegetables – Lightly battered veggies bring a delightful crunch to your plate.
- Spicy Pickles – These add a zesty kick that pairs well with savory noodle dishes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Chili Garlic Udon Noodles can be straightforward, but some common mistakes could affect your dish’s flavor and texture.
- Ignoring fresh ingredients – Using old or stale garlic and ginger can dull the flavors. Always use fresh ingredients for the best results.
- Not measuring chili oil – Adding too much chili oil can overwhelm the dish. Start with a tablespoon and adjust according to your heat preference.
- Overcooking noodles – Cooking udon noodles for too long can make them mushy. Follow package instructions carefully for perfect texture.
- Skipping garnishes – Garnishes like spring onions and sesame seeds add essential flavor and texture. Don’t skip them for a complete dish.
- Using low-quality soy sauce – This can affect the overall taste of your noodles. Opt for a good quality soy sauce to enhance umami flavors.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Chili Garlic Udon Noodles
- Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Chili Garlic Udon Noodles
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread noodles on a baking sheet and heat for 10-15 minutes, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out.
- Microwave – Use a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in intervals of 30 seconds, stirring in between until warmed through.
- Stovetop – Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little water or oil for moisture as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Chili Garlic Udon Noodles.
How can I customize my Chili Garlic Udon Noodles?
You can add vegetables like bell peppers or bok choy for extra nutrition. Proteins such as chicken, shrimp, or tofu also work well.
What if I don’t have udon noodles?
You can substitute with other types of noodles like soba, ramen, or even spaghetti if you’re in a pinch.
Can I make Chili Garlic Udon Noodles vegan?
Yes! Simply omit the egg and ensure that your soy sauce is vegan-friendly.
How spicy are these Chili Garlic Udon Noodles?
The spice level depends on how much chili oil and chili flakes you use. Adjust according to your taste preferences!
Can I store leftover Chili Garlic Udon Noodles?
Absolutely! Follow the storage instructions above to keep them fresh for later meals.
Final Thoughts
Chili Garlic Udon Noodles are not only quick and easy to prepare but also packed with delightful flavors. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and offers plenty of room for customization based on your tastes. Whether you prefer it spicy or mild, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings. Give it a try today!
Chili Garlic Udon Noodles
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 1
Description
Chili Garlic Udon Noodles are the perfect weeknight meal that combines bold flavors and quick preparation. In just 10 minutes, you can whip up a savory bowl of umami-packed noodles that deliver a delightful kick from garlic and chili oil. This simple recipe is not only satisfying but also highly customizable—add your choice of proteins or vegetables to make it your own. Ideal for busy evenings or impressing guests, these noodles guarantee a delicious experience every time.
Ingredients
- 300 g udon noodles
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 thumb fresh ginger
- 1 tbsp chili oil
- 1 tsp chili flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp dark rice vinegar
- 4 tbsp granola or peanut oil
- 1 egg (optional garnish)
- Sliced spring onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Mince garlic and ginger, combining them in a heatproof bowl with chili oil, chili flakes, salt, and sesame seeds.
- Heat granola or peanut oil in a small saucepan until slightly smoking; pour over the garlic mixture.
- Add soy sauce, dark rice vinegar, and pure sesame oil to the mixture; stir well.
- Cook udon noodles according to package instructions; drain thoroughly.
- Toss the drained noodles with the garlic-chili mixture until evenly coated.
- Serve topped with a fried egg and garnished with sliced spring onions and sesame seeds.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 26g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 186mg
