Looking for a quick and savory meal that’s packed with flavor? Try this Chili Garlic Udon Noodles recipe! Thick, chewy udon noodles are tossed in a rich, spicy chili garlic sauce, making it a perfect dish for busy weeknights or a quick lunch. With simple ingredients like sesame oil, garlic, soy sauce, and chili paste, this noodle dish delivers a satisfying blend of heat and umami. Best of all, it’s ready in just 20 minutes!
Ingredients:
14 oz (400 g) fresh or frozen udon noodles
2 tbsp sesame oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp ginger, minced
1 tbsp chili paste or chili flakes (adjust for spice preference)
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp hoisin sauce (optional for added sweetness)
2 green onions, chopped
1 tsp sugar (optional)
1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
Fresh cilantro or parsley (optional garnish)
Instructions:
Cook the Udon Noodles:
Prepare the udon noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics:
In a large pan, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and ginger, and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Make the Chili Garlic Sauce:
Stir in soy sauce, chili paste (or chili flakes), rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, and sugar (if using). Let the sauce simmer for about 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Toss Noodles in Sauce:
Add the cooked udon noodles to the pan and toss until they are fully coated in the sauce.
Garnish & Serve:
Garnish with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro or parsley (if desired). Serve hot and enjoy!
Serving Tips:
Serving Temperature: Serve the noodles hot for the best flavor and texture. They can lose their chewiness if allowed to cool too much.
Garnishes: Enhance the dish with additional garnishes like extra sesame seeds, fresh cilantro or parsley, and a drizzle of sesame oil for added flavor and presentation.
Pairing Options: Serve alongside sides like steamed bok choy, Asian-style pickled vegetables, or a fresh cucumber salad for a complete meal.
Protein Additions: Consider adding cooked protein such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make the dish more filling.
Chili Oil: For those who love extra heat, provide a side of chili oil for drizzling on top before serving.
Storage Tips:
Refrigeration: Store any leftover noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Udon noodles can be frozen; however, the texture may change slightly after thawing. To freeze, place cooled noodles in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Reheating: To reheat, you can microwave the noodles for 1-2 minutes until warmed through, adding a splash of water or additional sesame oil to maintain moisture. Alternatively, stir-fry them briefly in a pan over medium heat to revive their texture.
Avoid Overcooking: When reheating, be careful not to overcook the noodles, as they can become mushy. Stirring gently helps keep them from clumping together.
Related Recipes:
FAQs:
Can I use a different type of noodle for this recipe?
Yes! While udon noodles provide a thick and chewy texture, you can substitute them with other noodles like soba, rice noodles, or even spaghetti if needed. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make Chili Garlic Udon Noodles gluten-free, use gluten-free udon noodles or rice noodles. Additionally, substitute regular soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the chili garlic sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. When ready to use, simply reheat the sauce and toss it with freshly cooked noodles.
What can I add to the noodles for extra flavor or nutrition?
Feel free to customize your dish by adding vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, or spinach. You can also incorporate proteins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a more balanced meal. Experimenting with different ingredients can enhance the flavor and nutrition of your udon noodles!
Conclusion:
This Chili Garlic Udon Noodles recipe is perfect when you’re craving bold flavors in a pinch. Give it a try and enjoy a savory, spicy dish that’s sure to become a household favorite!
📖 Recipe:
Print
Chili Garlic Udon Noodles
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy a quick and savory meal with these Chili Garlic Udon Noodles! Thick, chewy udon noodles are tossed in a spicy chili garlic sauce made with soy sauce and sesame oil. Perfect for busy weeknights, this flavorful dish is both satisfying and easy to prepare, making it a go-to favorite for noodle lovers!
Ingredients
14 oz (400 g) fresh or frozen udon noodles
2 tbsp sesame oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp ginger, minced
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp chili paste or chili flakes (adjust for spice preference)
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp hoisin sauce (optional for sweetness)
1 tsp sugar (optional)
2 green onions, chopped
1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
Fresh cilantro or parsley (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the udon noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pan, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger, sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the soy sauce, chili paste, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, and sugar (if using). Let the sauce simmer for 2 minutes.
- Toss the cooked udon noodles in the sauce until evenly coated.
- Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and cilantro (if desired). Serve hot.
Notes
Adjust the amount of chili paste or flakes based on your spice preference.
Add vegetables or proteins like tofu, chicken, or shrimp for a more filling meal.
The hoisin sauce and sugar are optional but enhance the flavor balance.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 servings
- Calories: 320 kcal
