Garlic Chili Oil Noodles

Name: Garlic Chili Oil Noodles
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 11 oz dried ribbon noodles; 1½ tablespoons cooking oil; ½ cup scallions (white part only), thinly sliced; 1½ tablespoons minced garlic; ¼ cup low-sodium vegetable broth; 2 tablespoons light soy sauce; 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce; 1 tablespoon Chinese black vinegar; 1 tablespoon Korean chili powder or flakes

Published: August 24, 2025

by lara

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just 5 minutes and a total cooking time of 15 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
Bold Flavors: The combination of garlic, scallions, and Korean chili flakes creates a mouthwatering sauce that packs a punch.
Customizable Heat: Adjust the amount of chili flakes to make it as spicy as you like, ensuring it’s tailored to your taste.
Versatile Dish: Enjoy these noodles as a main course or side dish, pairing well with various proteins or vegetables.
Pantry Staples: Most ingredients are common kitchen items, making it easy to whip up anytime.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools to ensure smooth preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large pot
Small frying pan
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Large pot: Essential for boiling the noodles evenly without overcrowding.
Small frying pan: Ideal for making the aromatic base without taking up too much space.
Cutting board & Chef’s knife: Crucial for efficiently preparing your ingredients with precision.

Ingredients

For the Noodles:

11 oz (300g) dried ribbon noodles

For the Sauce:

1½ tablespoons cooking oil (e.g., grapeseed oil or neutral oil)
½ cup scallions (white part only), thinly sliced
1½ tablespoons minced garlic (about 4 cloves)
¼ cup low-sodium vegetable broth
2 tablespoons light soy sauce
1 tablespoon dark soy sauce
1 tablespoon Chinese black vinegar
1 tablespoon Korean chili powder or flakes (e.g., Gochugaru)

For Garnish:

¼ cup scallions (green part), thinly sliced
1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
Extra chili flakes (optional)

How to Make Garlic Chili Oil Noodles

Step 1: Make the Aromatic Base

Start by heating the cooking oil in a small frying pan over very low heat. Add the white part of the scallions along with the minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes while stirring constantly to avoid burning.

Step 2: Add Sauce Ingredients

Increase the heat to medium-low and stir in the vegetable broth, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, Chinese black vinegar, and Korean chili flakes. Let this mixture simmer for 5 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Cook the Noodles

While your sauce is simmering, cook the dried ribbon noodles in a large pot of boiling water according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain them thoroughly.

Step 4: Combine and Toss

Add the drained noodles directly into the pan with your aromatic sauce. Toss well to ensure each noodle is coated evenly in the garlic chili mixture.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Top your noodles with sliced green scallions, toasted sesame seeds, and extra chili flakes if you prefer more heat. Serve hot and enjoy this delightful dish!

This recipe not only highlights how easy it is to create flavorful Garlic Chili Oil Noodles but also shows how customizable they can be—perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Garlic Chili Oil Noodles

Garlic Chili Oil Noodles are a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

As a Main Dish

Pair with a fresh salad for a light and refreshing balance.
Serve alongside steamed vegetables to add color and nutrients.

With Protein

Add grilled chicken or turkey for a heartier meal.
Toss in sautéed beef or lamb strips for an extra kick of flavor.

As a Cold Salad

Chill the noodles after cooking and mix with chopped cucumbers and bell peppers for a refreshing cold noodle salad.
Drizzle with extra soy sauce or sesame oil for added flavor.

With Extra Garnishes

Top with crushed peanuts or cashews for a crunchy texture.
Add fresh cilantro or basil for an aromatic finish.

How to Perfect Garlic Chili Oil Noodles

To achieve the best Garlic Chili Oil Noodles, consider these helpful tips:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh scallions and garlic provide vibrant flavors that enhance the dish.
Adjust Spice Level: Modify the amount of Korean chili flakes to suit your taste, ensuring it’s just right for you.
Cook Noodles Al Dente: Avoid overcooking the noodles; they should have a slight bite to hold up against the sauce.
Let Sauce Simmer: Allow the sauce to simmer adequately to develop rich flavors before adding the noodles.
Toss Thoroughly: Ensure all noodles are well-coated with the sauce for consistent flavor throughout.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Chili Oil Noodles

Garlic Chili Oil Noodles pair well with various side dishes, making your meal even more satisfying. Here are some excellent options:

Stir-Fried Bok Choy: Quick and easy, stir-fry bok choy with garlic and soy sauce for a simple side.
Crispy Tofu Bites: Marinated tofu pan-fried until golden brown adds protein and texture.
Vegetable Spring Rolls: Serve these crispy rolls filled with fresh veggies as a light appetizer.
Asian Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad made with cucumbers, vinegar, and sesame oil complements the noodles perfectly.
Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup offers comforting flavors that pair beautifully with spicy noodles.
Roasted Cauliflower: Seasoned roasted cauliflower provides a deliciously nutty flavor that balances the heat of the noodles.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make some common mistakes when preparing Garlic Chili Oil Noodles. Here are a few to watch out for:

Boldly heat the oil: Using high heat can burn the garlic and scallions. Always start on low heat and gradually increase it to medium-low.
Neglecting noodle cooking time: Overcooking the noodles can lead to a mushy texture. Follow the package instructions carefully for the best results.
Ignoring flavor balance: Skipping any sauce ingredients can alter the taste. Ensure you use both light and dark soy sauces for depth of flavor.
Forgetting garnish: Garnishes add freshness and texture. Don’t skip the scallions and sesame seeds; they enhance the dish significantly.
Not adjusting spice levels: If you prefer milder noodles, reduce the amount of Korean chili flakes. Always taste and adjust according to your heat preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Allow the noodles to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Garlic Chili Oil Noodles

Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Separate portions for easy reheating later.

Reheating Garlic Chili Oil Noodles

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake in an oven-safe dish covered with foil for about 15 minutes or until heated through.
Microwave: Heat on medium power in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring halfway, until hot (about 2-3 minutes).
Stovetop: Sauté in a pan over medium heat with a splash of vegetable broth or water until warmed up.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Garlic Chili Oil Noodles:

Can I use gluten-free noodles?

Yes, gluten-free ribbon noodles can be used as a substitute to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivity.

How can I customize Garlic Chili Oil Noodles?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or carrots for extra nutrition. Protein options include chicken or tofu.

What is Gochugaru?

Gochugaru is a Korean chili powder that adds flavor and a mild kick. You can adjust its quantity based on your spice preference.

How do I make Garlic Chili Oil Noodles vegan?

This recipe is naturally vegan-friendly as it doesn’t contain animal products. Just ensure any added protein is also plant-based.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Chili Oil Noodles are an exciting dish that brings bold flavors and comforting textures together. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins. Try making it your own today!