Korean Garlic Noodles are a tasty treat that mixes soft noodles with a rich garlic sauce. They’re simple to make and bring a yummy twist to your dinner table!
I love how these noodles are both flavorful and comforting. They make me feel warm and cozy, like a hug in a bowl! 🍜 Try them with some veggies for an extra crunch!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Noodles: Fresh ramen noodles are beautiful in this dish for their chewiness. However, you can use any thin wheat noodles like udon or even spaghetti if you’re in a pinch!
Sesame Oil: This oil adds a nutty flavor that’s hard to beat. If you don’t have it on hand, you can substitute with olive oil, but expect a different taste.
Gochujang: This Korean chili paste gives the dish its signature kick. For a milder version, you can use sriracha or red pepper flakes, but adjust the quantity to match your heat preference.
Rice Vinegar: It adds a bit of acidity to balance the flavors. If unavailable, apple cider vinegar can work in a pinch, though the taste will vary slightly.
Eggs: Adding a fried egg on top makes the dish even heartier. If you prefer it plant-based, consider tofu or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for extra flavor.
How Do I Get My Garlic Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking garlic needs a little attention because it can burn quickly. Start by heating the sesame oil over medium-low heat, which gives the garlic time to release its flavor without burning.
- Once the oil is hot, add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Look for a golden color, but stop before it turns brown as it can become bitter.
- This technique ensures your garlic is fragrant and enhances the noodles beautifully!
Korean Garlic Noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Noodles:
- 8 oz fresh ramen noodles or thin wheat noodles
For the Sauce:
- 3 tbsp sesame oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
For Topping:
- 1 tsp sesame seeds (toasted)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 small cucumber, sliced or julienned (optional)
- 2 eggs (optional, for topping)
- Salt, to taste
- Vegetable oil (for frying eggs)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes in total – around 10 minutes for preparation and 10 minutes for cooking. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Noodles:
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add the noodles and cook according to the package instructions until they are just tender. Once done, drain the noodles and set them aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in the sesame oil. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic until it becomes fragrant and golden, which should take about 1-2 minutes. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
3. Mix in the Flavor:
Now it’s time to make the sauce! Stir in the gochujang, soy sauce, sugar, and rice vinegar. Mix everything well to create a flavorful blend of ingredients.
4. Combine with Noodles:
Once the sauce is ready, add the cooked noodles to the skillet. Toss everything together so that the noodles are well coated with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to warm everything through.
5. Garnish the Noodles:
Toss in most of the sliced green onions and sesame seeds, saving a bit for topping later. Give everything a good stir to combine again.
6. Fry the Eggs (Optional):
If you’d like fried eggs on top, heat a little vegetable oil in a separate pan. Fry the eggs sunny-side up until the whites are set but the yolks remain runny.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Now, it’s time to serve! Dish the noodles into bowls, and top each bowl with a fried egg, the remaining green onions, sesame seeds, and optionally some cucumber slices for added crunch.
8. Dig In:
Enjoy your fragrant, savory, and slightly spicy Korean Garlic Noodles! They’re sure to impress everyone at the table.
Can I Use Different Types of Noodles?
Absolutely! While fresh ramen noodles are ideal for their texture, you can substitute them with any thin wheat noodles or even spaghetti in a pinch. Just adjust the cooking time based on the type of noodles you choose.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you love heat, consider adding extra gochujang or a splash of sriracha while mixing the sauce. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before serving for an extra kick!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can make the noodle mixture and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply warm the noodles in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming.