Asian Garlic Noodles are a quick and tasty dish that blends noodles with lots of garlic, soy sauce, and a sprinkle of green onions. It’s packed with flavor and super easy to whip up!
These noodles are like a warm hug for your tummy. I love making them when I’m short on time—just boil, mix, and enjoy! Perfect for a cozy night in or a snack anytime! 🍜
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Noodles: Thin spaghetti works well, but if you want to try Asian flavors, go for egg noodles or rice noodles. They absorb the sauce beautifully! Sometimes, I mix them for a fun texture.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential here; it gives the dish its signature flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute, but fresh is always best for that punchy taste.
Oils: I love using sesame oil for its nutty flavor, but vegetable oil is great too. If you’re avoiding oils, a splash of vegetable broth can help sauté the garlic without losing flavor.
Oyster Sauce: For a vegetarian option, use mushroom oyster sauce. It’s delicious and gives a similar umami taste. I keep both on hand for different recipes!
Chili Flakes: Use these if you like a bit of heat! If you have fresh chili, chop that up instead. No spice? Just skip it—it’ll still be tasty!
How Do I Get the Garlic Just Right?
Sautéing garlic can be tricky since it can burn quickly. Here’s the trick: keep the heat on medium, and don’t walk away!
- Heat your oil first, then add garlic and stir continuously for 1-2 minutes.
- Watch for it to change to a light golden shade—this means it’s ready!
- If you smell a strong garlic aroma but it’s not golden yet, lower the heat a bit.
Remember, burnt garlic tastes bitter, so take your time here! Happy cooking!
How to Make Asian Garlic Noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Noodles:
- 8 oz thin spaghetti or Asian egg noodles
For the Sauce:
- 4 tbsp vegetable oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor)
- 6-8 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes or to taste (optional)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Garnish:
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 10 minutes boiling the noodles and another 10 minutes cooking the sauce and mixing everything together. So, get ready to enjoy a tasty meal in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Noodles:
Start by boiling a large pot of water. Cook the thin spaghetti or Asian egg noodles according to the package instructions until they’re just al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the noodles and set them aside while you prepare your sauce.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil (or sesame oil if you’re using it) over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the finely minced garlic. Sauté it for about 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently until it becomes fragrant and turns a light golden color. Be careful not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can ruin the flavor!
3. Mix the Sauce:
Next, stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and brown sugar. Mix everything together well. Let the mixture simmer for about a minute so the flavors can combine nicely.
4. Combine Noodles and Sauce:
Now, add your cooked noodles to the skillet. Toss them gently in the garlic sauce to make sure they are evenly coated. If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in the chili flakes during this step and mix it in. Season with freshly ground black pepper to your taste.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Once everything is well mixed, remove the skillet from heat. Garnish your flavorful noodles with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds, if using. Serve warm in bowls and enjoy your homemade Asian Garlic Noodles!
This dish is not only quick and easy to make but also bursts with savory and slightly sweet flavors. A perfect meal for any day of the week!
Can I Use Different Types of Noodles?
Absolutely! While thin spaghetti is a great choice, you can also use Asian egg noodles, rice noodles, or even whole wheat pasta. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type of noodle you choose!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! To make this dish vegan, simply substitute the oyster sauce with mushroom oyster sauce or a combination of soy sauce and a bit of mushroom broth for added flavor.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to help loosen them up.
Can I Add Vegetables or Protein?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in some snap peas, bell peppers, or broccoli while sautéing the garlic. For protein, cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu can be added along with the noodles for a heartier meal.
