Chili Garlic Udon Noodles
These Chili Garlic Udon Noodles are a delightful treat that brings a burst of flavor to your table. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner, this dish combines savory garlic and spicy chili oil in a quick-to-make noodle bowl. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up an umami-packed meal that is sure to impress friends and family alike. Whether you’re looking for a simple lunch or a comforting dinner, these udon noodles are the answer!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 10 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, chili oil, and soy sauce creates an irresistible umami flavor.
- Versatile Dish: Enjoy these noodles on their own or pair them with your favorite protein or vegetables.
- Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice level by adding more chili flakes according to your preference.
- Single Serving Convenience: This recipe is perfect for solo diners, eliminating food waste.
Tools and Preparation
Gathering the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare your Chili Garlic Udon Noodles.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Small saucepan
- Heatproof bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling the udon noodles quickly and efficiently.
- Heatproof bowl: Allows you to pour hot oil safely over the garlic and ginger mixture without risk of damage.
- Small saucepan: Perfect for heating the oil to the right temperature before mixing with other ingredients.
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 Aromatics
Finely mince the garlic and fresh ginger. Place them into a heatproof bowl along with:
Chili oil
Chili flakes
Salt
White sesame seeds
Step 2: Heat the Oil
In a small saucepan, heat up the granola or peanut oil. When it starts to smoke:
1. Remove it from the stove.
2. Carefully pour it over the mixture in the heatproof bowl.
Step 3: Mix in Sauces
Add soy sauce, dark rice vinegar, and pure sesame oil to the bowl. Stir well until all ingredients are combined.
Step 4: Cook the Noodles
Boil water in a large pot. Add udon noodles and cook until they’re soft. Drain them thoroughly.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Transfer the drained noodles into the bowl with the garlic chili oil mix. Toss well to ensure every noodle is coated in delicious sauce.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Top your dish with a fried egg, sliced spring onion greens, and black sesame seeds. Enjoy your flavorful Chili Garlic Udon Noodles!
How to Serve Chili Garlic Udon Noodles
Chili Garlic Udon Noodles are not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve them in various ways to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some serving suggestions that will enhance your meal.
Garnish with Fresh Ingredients
- Sliced Spring Onions: Add a pop of color and freshness with chopped spring onion greens.
- Black Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle these on top for a nutty flavor and a beautiful presentation.
Pair with Protein
- Fried Egg: Top your bowl with a perfectly fried egg for added richness and protein.
- Grilled Chicken: Serve alongside sliced grilled chicken for a hearty meal.
Create a Complete Meal
- Steamed Vegetables: Pair the noodles with steamed broccoli or bok choy for a nutritious side.
- Tofu: Incorporate pan-fried or baked tofu for a vegetarian protein boost.
Add Extra Spice
- Chili Oil Drizzle: For those who love heat, drizzle more chili oil over the dish before serving.
- Fresh Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro can add brightness and flavor.
How to Perfect Chili Garlic Udon Noodles
Perfecting Chili Garlic Udon Noodles is all about balance and technique. Follow these tips to elevate your dish.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh garlic and ginger to enhance the flavor.
- Watch the Oil Temperature: Heat the oil until it’s just smoking; this releases the flavors without burning them.
- Don’t Overcook Noodles: Cook udon noodles until just tender, so they maintain their chewy texture.
- Customize Your Heat Level: Adjust the amount of chili flakes to match your spice preference.
- Mix Thoroughly: Ensure the noodles are well coated in the garlic chili oil mix for an even flavor distribution.
Best Side Dishes for Chili Garlic Udon Noodles
Chili Garlic Udon Noodles shine as a main dish, but they can be complemented by delightful side dishes. Here are some great options to consider.
- Edamame Beans: Lightly salted edamame make for a healthy and protein-rich side.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar balances the spicy noodles.
- Spring Rolls: Crispy vegetable spring rolls offer a crunchy contrast to the soft udon noodles.
- Miso Soup: Warm miso soup serves as a comforting companion that adds umami flavors.
- Pickled Vegetables: Serve pickled radishes or carrots for tanginess that cuts through the richness.
- Tempura Vegetables: Lightly battered and fried veggies add texture and taste to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Chili Garlic Udon Noodles, it’s easy to overlook some crucial steps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.
- Skipping the garlic prep: Not mincing the garlic finely can lead to uneven flavor distribution. Always mince your garlic and ginger well for a balanced taste.
- Ignoring oil temperature: If the oil isn’t hot enough, you won’t achieve that perfect sizzle. Ensure your oil is hot enough before pouring it over the garlic mixture.
- Overcooking the noodles: Cooking udon noodles for too long can make them mushy. Follow package instructions closely and taste-test for doneness.
- Not balancing flavors: Just adding chili oil might make it too spicy without depth. Always combine soy sauce and vinegar to create a well-rounded flavor profile.
- Skipping garnishes: Garnishes add both visual appeal and flavor. Don’t forget the spring onions and sesame seeds; they elevate your dish significantly.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Best consumed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Chili Garlic Udon Noodles
- Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Can be frozen for up to 1 month.
Reheating Chili Garlic Udon Noodles
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish with a splash of water, cover with foil, and heat until warm.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds, stirring in between until hot.
- Stovetop: Add a little water or oil to a pan over medium heat and stir until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common queries about making Chili Garlic Udon Noodles.
What is the best way to cook udon noodles?
Udon noodles should be boiled according to package instructions, usually around 5-7 minutes. Once tender, drain them immediately.
Can I customize my Chili Garlic Udon Noodles?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or bok choy or protein such as chicken or tofu for added nutrition.
Are Chili Garlic Udon Noodles spicy?
The spice level depends on how much chili oil and flakes you use. Adjust these ingredients based on your heat preference.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes! Simply omit the egg or replace it with a plant-based alternative to keep it vegan-friendly.
Final Thoughts
Chili Garlic Udon Noodles are not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor that satisfies any craving. Feel free to customize ingredients based on what you have at home, making this dish versatile for any occasion!
Chili Garlic Udon Noodles
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2
Description
Chili Garlic Udon Noodles are a quick and satisfying dish that will elevate your weeknight dinners. This recipe highlights the bold flavors of garlic and chili oil, creating a savory umami experience that can be enjoyed in just 10 minutes. Whether you’re craving a comforting meal or need something simple for lunch, these noodles deliver on flavor and convenience. Pair them with your favorite proteins or vegetables for a customizable feast that pleases every palate.
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)
- sliced spring onion greens (for garnish)
- white sesame seeds (for garnish)
- black sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
- Mince garlic and ginger; combine in a heatproof bowl with chili oil, chili flakes, salt, and white sesame seeds.
- Heat granola or peanut oil in a small saucepan until smoking; carefully pour over the mixture.
- Stir in soy sauce, dark rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
- Boil udon noodles as per package instructions, then drain.
- Toss drained noodles with the garlic-chili mixture until well coated.
- Top with a fried egg and garnish with spring onions and black sesame seeds before serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 570
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 22g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 186mg
