Garlic Noodles Recipe

Garlic noodles recipe is a versatile, comforting dish that’s beloved for its simplicity and irresistible flavor. This dish takes basic noodles and infuses them with the rich aroma of garlic and butter, resulting in a recipe that’s quick, delicious, and memorable. Perfect as a side dish or main course, garlic noodles work with any protein or vegetable, and you can adjust the ingredients to suit your taste.

A Brief History of Garlic Noodles Recipe:

Garlic noodles, particularly popular in Asian-American fusion cuisine, were made famous by San Francisco’s restaurant, Thanh Long, in the 1970s. This dish reflects a blend of Vietnamese and Italian flavors and quickly became a staple in American households. The recipe’s origins combine the Italian tradition of pasta dishes with garlic with the Vietnamese love for bold, savory flavors, resulting in a rich, buttery, and umami-filled plate that’s easy to love.

Garlic Noodles Recipe

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Equipment

• Large pot for boiling noodles
• Sauté pan or large skillet
• Tongs or a fork to toss noodles
• Colander for draining noodles
• Grater (for Parmesan cheese)

Ingredients

  

For the Garlic Noodles:

• 200g (7 oz) spaghetti or noodles of choice (fresh egg noodles work well too)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 5-6 garlic cloves, finely minced
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (or soy sauce for a vegetarian option)
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional for additional umami)
• 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for a richer flavor)
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Chopped green onions or parsley (for garnish)

See also  Golden & Crispy Home Fries Recipe

Instructions

 

• Fill a large pot with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil.
• Once boiling, add the noodles or spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually around 8-10 minutes for spaghetti).
• Drain the noodles in a colander, then set aside. You may drizzle a little olive oil over the noodles to prevent them from sticking.
• In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat until melted and slightly sizzling.
• Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. Be careful not to brown or burn the garlic, as this can make it bitter. You want it soft and fragrant.
• Once the garlic is softened, add the oyster sauce, fish sauce (if using), and sugar to the pan.
• Stir well to combine, letting the mixture cook for about 1-2 minutes. The sauce will thicken slightly, turning a glossy, rich brown color.
• Add the cooked noodles directly into the skillet with the sauce.
• Toss the noodles using tongs or a fork, making sure each strand is coated with the garlic-butter sauce.
• Taste and season with salt and pepper as desired. For a hint of creaminess, sprinkle in Parmesan cheese and mix well.
• Serve and Garnish

  Remove the garlic noodles from heat and transfer them to a serving dish.

  Garnish with freshly chopped green onions or parsley for added color and a fresh taste.

  Serve hot, and enjoy the savory goodness of garlic noodles!

Video

Tips for Perfect Garlic Noodles:

– Choose high-quality noodles for the best texture.
– Control the garlic cooking time to avoid bitterness.
– Adjust sauces to taste: Feel free to increase or decrease the amount of oyster or fish sauce for preferred taste balance.

Similar Recipes You Might Enjoy:

– Garlic Shrimp Noodles: Add shrimp to this recipe for a seafood twist.
– Spicy Chili Garlic Noodles: Add chili flakes or chili paste for a spicy kick.
– Miso Garlic Noodles: Substitute miso paste for a unique umami flavor.
– Creamy Parmesan Garlic Pasta: Add heavy cream and extra Parmesan for a rich, creamy version.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Garlic Noodles Recipe:

1. Can I use gluten-free noodles?

Yes! Simply substitute with gluten-free noodles, and ensure any sauces are also gluten-free if you have dietary restrictions.

2. What’s the best noodle type for this recipe?

Spaghetti or fresh egg noodles work well, but you can also use linguine or ramen noodles for variety.

3. How can I make garlic noodles vegan?

Use vegan butter, omit the fish sauce, and choose soy sauce instead of oyster sauce. Parmesan can be replaced with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

4. How do I store leftover garlic noodles?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan with a little extra butter or oil for the best results.

5. What proteins pair well with garlic noodles?

Shrimp, chicken, beef, or tofu are excellent protein options to complement the noodles.

6. Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Try adding mushrooms, bell peppers, broccoli, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.

7. Are garlic noodles spicy?

The classic recipe isn’t spicy, but you can add chili flakes or Sriracha for heat.

Conclusion:

Garlic noodles are an easy, flavor-packed dish that delivers big on taste with minimal effort. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or as a delicious side, these noodles can be adapted to suit any preference. Try pairing them with grilled meats or fresh vegetables for a balanced and satisfying meal. Enjoy experimenting with variations, and don’t be surprised if this recipe becomes a regular in your kitchen!

YouTube Video Credits:
J. Kenji López-Alt