These Asian Garlic Noodles are quick, tasty, and full of flavor! With garlic, soy sauce, and a sprinkle of green onions, they are sure to please everyone at the dinner table.
What I love most is how simple they are to whip up! Perfect for busy nights, they’re ready in just 15 minutes. So, don’t be surprised if they become a family favorite! 🍜
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Noodles: You can use either spaghetti or Asian egg noodles. While spaghetti is easy to find, I love how egg noodles soak up the sauce perfectly! If gluten-free, consider rice noodles or shirataki noodles as great substitutes.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for flavor, so I recommend avoiding pre-minced options. You can try shallots if you’re looking for a milder taste. Garlic powder won’t give the same depth, but in a pinch, it’s an option.
Soy Sauce: This adds saltiness and umami. For a gluten-free option, use tamari. If you prefer less sodium, look for low-sodium soy sauce. Liquid aminos can also be a nice alternative.
Oyster Sauce: It gives a rich flavor. If you’re vegetarian, try mushroom sauce instead for a similar taste. You can also skip it, but the dish might miss some depth.
Chili Flakes: Use these for heat! You can swap with Sriracha or your favorite hot sauce if you enjoy a bit of spiciness. Adjust according to your taste!
How Do I Perfectly Sauté Garlic Without Burning It?
It’s essential to sauté garlic without letting it burn, as burnt garlic can taste bitter. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat the oil over medium heat. Avoid high heat, as garlic cooks quickly.
- Once the oil is warm, add the minced garlic. Keep stirring constantly.
- Cook for just about 1-2 minutes until it’s fragrant and starting to turn golden, then move to the next step.
If it starts to brown too quickly, reduce the heat and add a splash of water or broth to cool it down. This technique helps prevent burning and ensures your dish is full of delicious garlic flavor!
How to Make Asian Garlic Noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Noodles:
- 8 oz spaghetti or Asian egg noodles
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or sesame oil
- 6 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes or chili garlic sauce (optional, for heat)
For Topping:
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes in total. You’ll spend the first 10 minutes cooking the noodles and making the garlic sauce, and then a few minutes to toss everything together. It’s a quick and delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Noodles:
Start by boiling a large pot of water. Once it’s bubbling, add the spaghetti or egg noodles, and cook them according to the package instructions until they’re al dente. This usually takes around 6-8 minutes. Once done, drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water. This stops the cooking process and stops them from getting sticky. Set them aside!
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet or wok, pour in the vegetable or sesame oil and heat it over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it becomes fragrant and turns a lovely golden color. Be careful not to let it burn!
3. Mix in the Sauces:
Next, add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sugar, and chili flakes or chili garlic sauce (if you like a bit of spice!). Stir everything together and cook for another minute, letting the flavors meld and heat through.
4. Combine Noodles and Sauce:
Now, it’s time to add the cooked noodles to the skillet. Toss them gently with the sauce, ensuring they are evenly coated. Mix in most of the sliced green onions, leaving a little aside for garnishing later.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Once everything is combined thoroughly, remove the skillet from heat. Serve the noodles in bowls, topped with the reserved green onions and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for added crunch and flavor. Enjoy your warm and tasty Asian Garlic Noodles!
These noodles are a fantastic side dish or a light main course. Plus, they are super versatile—add some veggies or protein for a complete meal!
Can I Use Other Types of Noodles?
Absolutely! While spaghetti and Asian egg noodles work great, you can also use rice noodles, udon noodles, or even whole wheat noodles as a substitute. Just adjust the cooking time according to the noodle type you choose.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! To make it vegetarian, simply substitute the oyster sauce with mushroom sauce or simply omit it. The soy sauce and hoisin sauce will still provide plenty of flavor!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover noodles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or soy sauce to prevent them from drying out, and warm them on the stove or in a microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
What Can I Add for Extra Protein?
You can easily add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu to this dish for a protein boost. Add them in at the same time as the noodles to ensure they are well-coated with the garlic sauce!
