Chili Garlic Udon Noodles is a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s both spicy and savory. The combination of garlic, chili paste, and soy sauce makes for an incredibly aromatic sauce that coats the thick, chewy udon noodles perfectly. Topped with a sprinkling of fresh herbs, sesame seeds, and a squeeze of lime, this dish is an instant favorite for spice lovers. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, so it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility: you can easily add vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or bok choy, or even tofu or chicken for added protein. Whether you’re enjoying it on its own or paired with your favorite sides, these Chili Garlic Udon Noodles will always hit the spot.
🧾 Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Udon Noodles:
- 400g fresh udon noodles (about 14 oz)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for stir-frying)
For the Chili Garlic Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons chili garlic sauce (or more for extra spice)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon water (to thin the sauce if needed)
For Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Lime wedges (for serving)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley (optional)
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Cook the Udon Noodles:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the udon noodles and cook according to package instructions (typically 2-3 minutes for fresh noodles).
- Drain the noodles and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
2. Make the Chili Garlic Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the chili garlic sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, ginger, and minced garlic. Add a tablespoon of water if you prefer a thinner sauce.
3. Stir-fry the Noodles:
- Heat vegetable oil and sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the cooked udon noodles to the pan and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until they are heated through and slightly crispy at the edges.
- Pour the chili garlic sauce over the noodles and toss to coat evenly. Continue to stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly and the noodles have absorbed the flavors.
4. Serve:
- Divide the noodles into serving bowls and garnish with sesame seeds, green onions, and a squeeze of lime juice. Optionally, top with fresh cilantro or parsley for an extra burst of flavor.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
📊 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | ~350 kcal |
Protein | 8g |
Carbohydrates | 54g |
Fiber | 2g |
Total Fat | 14g |
Saturated Fat | 2g |
Sugar | 9g |
Sodium | 800mg |
Calcium | 45mg |
Iron | 2mg |
Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
💡 Tips & Tricks
- Customize your spice level: If you like it spicier, feel free to add more chili garlic sauce or even a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. For a milder version, use just one tablespoon of chili garlic sauce.
- Add veggies: Toss in some veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or bok choy while stir-frying the noodles for a more well-rounded dish.
- Protein options: You can add tofu, shrimp, or chicken for added protein. If using tofu, press out the excess water and pan-fry it until golden and crispy before adding it to the noodles.
- Make it vegan: This recipe is naturally vegan if you substitute the honey with maple syrup or agave syrup.
✨ A Little Extra From Me
Chili Garlic Udon Noodles is a dish that brings together the perfect balance of flavors: spicy, savory, and just a hint of sweetness. The garlic and chili paste work wonders together, creating an aromatic and comforting sauce that pairs beautifully with the thick, chewy noodles.
I love how versatile this recipe is — you can easily adjust the level of spice to suit your taste and throw in whatever veggies or protein you have on hand. Plus, it’s incredibly quick to make, making it an ideal option for a satisfying dinner after a busy day.
This recipe is a great reminder that simple ingredients can create delicious and satisfying meals. Whether you’re craving something spicy and flavorful or you’re looking to add a bit of excitement to your usual noodle routine, Chili Garlic Udon Noodles will hit the spot every time.
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