These Japanese Garlic Fried Noodles are quick and tasty! With a perfect mix of garlic, soy sauce, and veggies, they’re packed with flavor and super satisfying.
I love how easy this dish is to whip up. You can enjoy it as a meal or a side dish, and it always makes my kitchen smell amazing! 🥢
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Noodles: I recommend using fresh yakisoba or ramen noodles for the best texture and flavor. If you can’t find them, you can use spaghetti or rice noodles as a substitute. They can offer a different twist!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for that warm flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work. Just use about 1/8 teaspoon for each clove.
Vegetable Oil: Vegetable oil keeps it neutral, while sesame oil adds a lovely nutty flavor. If sesame oil is unavailable, olive oil can be a good substitute, though it might slightly change the final taste.
Green Onions: Both the white and green parts add texture and flavor. If you run out, leeks or shallots could be alternatives, though the flavor will differ slightly.
Sauces: Soy sauce is a must, but for a gluten-free version, tamari works well. If you don’t have oyster sauce, hoisin sauce can be a suitable substitute, although it’s sweeter.
How Do I Cook the Noodles Perfectly?
Cooking the noodles properly is crucial for this dish. If you use dried noodles, follow these tips:
- Check the package instructions and cook them in a large pot of boiling water.
- Drain them once they’re al dente, then quickly rinse with cold water to stop cooking. This keeps them from becoming mushy.
- If using fresh noodles, just gently separate them before adding to the stir-fry.
The texture should be firm yet tender. Avoid overcooking, as they’ll continue to cook when stir-fried with other ingredients!
What’s the Best Way to Sauté Garlic?
Garlic can easily burn, so it’s important to monitor it closely:
- Heat your oil until it’s hot, but not smoking. Add the garlic and the white parts of green onions.
- Sauté on medium heat until fragrant and lightly golden, about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Stir often!
- Remove from heat immediately if it gets dark to prevent bitterness.
Perfectly cooked garlic adds its wonderful essence to your noodles without overpowering them!
How to Make Japanese Garlic Fried Noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Noodles:
- 200g fresh or dried yakisoba or ramen noodles
For the Stir-Fry:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil for more flavor)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2-3 stalks green onions, sliced (separate white and green parts)
- 1 cup broccolini or similar greens, chopped
For the Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon mirin (optional, for slight sweetness)
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnishing:
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
- 1 large egg (optional)
- Red chili flakes or togarashi powder (optional, for heat)
- Chili oil or chili sauce (optional, served on the side)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare, including cooking the noodles and stir-frying. It’s quick, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a speedy lunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Noodles:
If you’re using dried noodles, cook them according to the package instructions, usually boiling for a few minutes. Once they’re done, drain and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. If you’re using fresh noodles, gently separate them without breaking. Set aside until needed.
2. Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, mirin (if you’re using it), sugar, and a pinch of pepper. Stir the mixture well until the sugar dissolves completely and set it aside.
3. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet or wok, heat your choice of vegetable or sesame oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and the white parts of the green onions. Sauté everything together for about 30 seconds to 1 minute until it’s fragrant and just turning golden—be careful not to let the garlic burn!
4. Add Vegetables:
Next, add the chopped broccolini or any similar greens to the pan. Sauté them for about 1-2 minutes until they’re just tender but still vibrant and fresh-looking.
5. Stir-Fry the Noodles:
Add the cooked noodles to the pan, tossing everything together to combine. Then, pour the sauce over the noodles, continuing to toss until everything is well coated. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until everything is heated through.
6. Finish and Season:
Before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add a little more soy sauce or salt to suit your taste.
7. Cook the Egg (Optional):
If you’d like to add an egg, heat another small pan and fry the egg sunny-side-up (or however you prefer). This step adds a nice touch and extra protein to the dish!
8. Plate and Garnish:
To serve, transfer the noodles to a large plate or bowl. Top the noodles with the fried egg, sprinkling the sliced green parts of the green onions and toasted sesame seeds on top. If you’re using them, add red chili flakes or togarashi powder for a bit of heat!
9. Serve:
Enjoy your Japanese Garlic Fried Noodles with a small dish of chili oil or chili sauce on the side for those who prefer a little extra kick. It’s a flavorful, satisfying dish that’s sure to please!
Can I Use Different Types of Noodles?
Absolutely! While yakisoba or ramen noodles provide the best texture, you can substitute them with spaghetti or rice noodles in a pinch. Just note that the flavor and texture might vary slightly.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer less heat, simply omit the red chili flakes or togarashi powder. You can also serve chili oil or sauce on the side, allowing everyone to add heat according to their taste.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes! This recipe is flexible, so feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots. Just be sure to cut them into similar sizes and adjust the cooking time to ensure everything is tender.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a pan with a splash of water or broth to avoid drying out the noodles.