Spicy Garlic Sesame Noodles

$- 8 oz (225g) spaghetti or any noodle of choice - 4 tablespoons sesame oil - 4 garlic cloves, minced - 1 inch piece ginger, grated - 2 tablespoons soy sauce - 2 tablespoons rice vinegar The main ingredients form the base of your dish. The noodles provide the heartiness. Sesame oil adds a nutty flavor. Garlic and ginger give it a rich aroma. Soy sauce and rice vinegar bring in umami and tang. - 2 tablespoons chili paste (adjust for heat preference) - 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup - 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds - 3 green onions, sliced - Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional) Optional ingredients allow you to customize your dish. Chili paste boosts the heat. Honey or maple syrup adds sweetness. Toppings like toasted sesame seeds and green onions add crunch and flavor. Fresh cilantro brightens the dish. - Large pot for boiling noodles - Skillet for sauce preparation - Measuring cups and spoons Having the right tools makes cooking easier. A large pot helps boil noodles properly. A skillet is key for making your sauce. Measuring cups and spoons ensure you use the right amounts. {{ingredient_image_1}} To cook the noodles, start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. This step is key for flavor. Once boiling, add your 8 oz of spaghetti or your chosen noodle. Stir often to prevent sticking. Boil the noodles for about 8-10 minutes, or until they are al dente. Al dente means they should be firm when you bite them. This texture holds up well when tossed with the sauce. After cooking, drain the noodles but save about a cup of the pasta water. This water will help adjust the sauce later. Next, heat 2 tablespoons of sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 4 minced garlic cloves and 1 inch grated ginger. Sauté them for 1-2 minutes. You want them fragrant, not browned. Browning can change the flavor. After that, stir in 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar, 2 tablespoons of chili paste, and 1 tablespoon of honey or maple syrup. Mix these well and let them simmer for about 2 minutes. This helps the flavors blend nicely. Now, add the drained noodles to the skillet. Toss them gently to coat in the spicy garlic sauce. If the mixture seems dry, slowly add some reserved pasta water. This will help the sauce stick better and reach your preferred consistency. Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the remaining sesame oil, 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame seeds, and 3 sliced green onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Now, your spicy garlic sesame noodles are ready to serve! To make your spicy garlic sesame noodles shine, start with the chili paste. You can adjust the heat by adding more or less. If you love spice, add an extra tablespoon. If you prefer mild, use less. Taste as you go to find your perfect level. Balancing sweetness is key, too. Honey or maple syrup can help with that. Use one tablespoon to start. If the sauce is too spicy, add a bit more sweetener. This mix makes the dish well-rounded and delicious. Never forget to reserve some pasta water. This starchy water helps sauce stick to the noodles. If your dish feels dry, add a little pasta water. It brings everything together. Also, try switching the order of adding ingredients. Start with the garlic and ginger, then add the liquids. This lets those flavors bloom before you add the noodles, making everything taste better. Garnishing with herbs makes your dish pop. Fresh cilantro works well, adding color and flavor. Sprinkle some on just before serving to impress your guests. When serving, think about the dish type. Bowls keep the noodles warm and cozy. Plates can show off the noodles' presentation. Choose what fits your style! Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger will enhance the flavors significantly compared to their dried counterparts. Adjust the Heat: Feel free to modify the amount of chili paste according to your heat preference; start with less and add more as needed. Perfect Pasta Texture: Ensure to cook the noodles al dente for the best texture that holds up in the sauce. Garnish for Freshness: Adding fresh cilantro or lime juice just before serving can brighten the dish and add a fresh flavor contrast. {{image_2}} You can use different noodles for this recipe. Whole wheat noodles add fiber and a nutty flavor. They also work great with the sauce. Gluten-free noodles are a good choice if you avoid gluten. They come in many shapes and flavors. Rice noodles are another option. They soak up the sauce well. Just make sure to cook them according to the package. Want to change the heat? You can make it less spicy. Just add less chili paste. Start with one tablespoon, then taste. If you like more heat, add more chili paste. You can also try red pepper flakes for a different kind of heat. Sriracha is another option. Adjust it to match your taste. Pairing these noodles with protein makes a great meal. Chicken, tofu, or shrimp all work well. Cook them in the skillet before adding the noodles. This way, they soak up the sauce. Adding veggies can make your dish even better. Try broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas. They add color and nutrition. Just sauté them with the garlic and ginger. To store leftovers, let the noodles cool first. Place them in an airtight container. Use glass or plastic containers that seal well. Store them in the fridge for up to three days. This keeps the flavors fresh and safe to eat. The best way to reheat noodles is in a skillet. Add a splash of water or broth to keep them moist. Heat on low, stirring often to prevent sticking. You can also use a microwave. Place the noodles in a bowl, cover, and heat in short bursts. Stir between each burst to warm evenly. Yes, Spicy Garlic Sesame Noodles can be frozen. To freeze, cool the noodles completely. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. To thaw, move the noodles to the fridge overnight. Reheat them in a skillet with a bit of water or broth for the best taste. Yes, you can use many types of noodles! Spaghetti works well, but you can also try rice noodles, udon, or whole wheat pasta. Each noodle type brings a unique taste and texture. If you want gluten-free options, look for rice or quinoa noodles. Just make sure to cook them according to the package instructions. This way, you get the best results for your dish. You can easily make this dish vegan. Instead of honey, use maple syrup for sweetness. Make sure to choose a vegan chili paste, as some may contain fish sauce. For the soy sauce, choose a gluten-free version if needed. This keeps the flavor while making it plant-based. Enjoy delicious, spicy garlic sesame noodles without any animal products. Yes, this dish is great for meal prep. You can cook a big batch and store it for later. Divide the noodles into portions and keep them in airtight containers. It stays fresh in the fridge for up to four days. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat in the microwave or on the stove. Add a splash of water to keep it moist. This makes weeknight dinners quick and easy. You now have a tasty recipe for Spicy Garlic Sesame Noodles. You've learned about the main and optional ingredients, kitchen tools needed, and step-by-step instructions. I shared tips that help enhance flavor and ideas for different variations. Remember, you can store and reheat leftovers easily. This dish is perfect for meal prep and can suit many diets. Experiment with flavors and ingredients to make it your own. Enjoy your cooking adventure!$

Spicy Garlic Sesame Noodles

A flavorful and spicy noodle dish with garlic, sesame, and a hint of sweetness.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 10

Total Time 20

Course Main Course

Cuisine Asian

Servings 2

Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients

8 oz spaghetti or any noodle of choice
4 tablespoons sesame oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch piece ginger, grated
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
2 tablespoons chili paste
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
3 pieces green onions, sliced
to taste salt and pepper
optional fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

Cook the noodles according to package instructions in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside, retaining a cup of pasta water.
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of sesame oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
Stir in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili paste, and honey or maple syrup. Mix well until combined and simmer for about 2 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss to coat them in the spicy garlic sauce. If the mixture seems dry, gradually add reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
Remove from heat and stir in the remaining sesame oil, toasted sesame seeds, and sliced green onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Divide the spicy garlic sesame noodles into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

Notes

Adjust the chili paste according to your heat preference.

Keyword garlic, noodles, quick meal, sesame, spicy