Name: Quick & Easy Spicy Garlic Noodles Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 8 oz noodles (lo mein, spaghetti, or ramen; kaidong recommended); 3 tbsp shiitake mushroom oil (or sesame oil); 5 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp brown sugar; 1/2 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste); 2 green onions, sliced; 1 tsp sesame seeds; Chili oil (optional); 1/2 cup water (reserved from boiling noodles); 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp smoked paprika; Salt & pepper to taste

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Introduction

These Quick & Easy Spicy Garlic Noodles are a perfect weeknight meal bursting with bold flavors. Combining fragrant garlic, a touch of sweetness, and spicy heat, this dish comes together in minutes and satisfies any craving for tasty, comforting noodles.

The image shows a close-up of a silver pan filled with thick, twisted noodles coated in a rich, reddish-brown sauce. The noodles have a slightly oily, glossy texture, and small bits of dark red seasoning chunks are scattered throughout. Bright green rings of chopped scallions are sprinkled evenly on top, adding a fresh contrast to the warm tones of the noodles and sauce. In the background, there are two red salt and pepper shakers and a lit candle, all placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 oz noodles (lo mein, spaghetti, or ramen; kaidong recommended)
3 tbsp shiitake mushroom oil (or sesame oil)
5 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp brown sugar
1/2 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
2 green onions, sliced
1 tsp sesame seeds
Chili oil (optional)
1/2 cup water from boiling noodles
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Cook noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of the water used to boil the noodles.
Step 2: In a large pan, heat shiitake mushroom oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and lightly golden, about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
Step 3: Stir in soy sauce, brown sugar, and chili flakes. Cook while stirring until the sugar dissolves fully.
Step 4: Add the cooked noodles, reserved noodle water, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pan. Toss everything together thoroughly to coat the noodles evenly with the sauce.
Step 5: Remove the pan from heat. Top the noodles with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Drizzle with chili oil if you want extra spice. Serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

For a richer depth, substitute shiitake mushroom oil with toasted sesame oil.
Add cooked vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for extra crunch and nutrition.
Use fresh chili peppers instead of chili flakes for a sharper heat.
Swap brown sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
To make it vegan, ensure your noodles contain no egg and use a vegan soy sauce.

Storage

Store leftover noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water to restore moisture. Avoid microwaving for best texture.

How to Serve

A close-up of a silver pan filled with thick noodles covered in a rich, reddish-brown spicy sauce with visible bits of chili paste. The noodles are coated evenly, with some twists showing the sauce soaking in. Bright green chopped scallions are sprinkled on top, adding fresh color contrast. The pan sits on a black stove, and the background features a white marbled texture with two red salt and pepper shakers and a lit candle with a greenish glass container blurred in the back. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of noodles?

Yes, this recipe works well with lo mein, spaghetti, ramen, or any noodles you prefer. Just cook them according to package instructions.

How spicy is this dish?

The heat level can be adjusted by changing the amount of chili flakes or adding chili oil. For a milder dish, use less chili flakes and omit the chili oil.