Shallot Chili Oil Noodles

If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying meal that packs a punch, then these Shallot Chili Oil Noodles are just the ticket! This recipe has become a favorite of mine because it combines simplicity with bold flavors. Whether you’re racing against the clock on a busy weeknight or hosting friends for a casual dinner, this dish fits the bill perfectly. In just 15 minutes, you can whip up a comforting bowl of noodles that will make your taste buds dance!

What I love most about this dish is how versatile it is. You can easily customize it to suit your mood or what’s in your pantry. It’s also entirely vegan, making it great for everyone at the table—no one will miss the meat here!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 15 minutes from start to finish, this dish is perfect for those busy days when you need something delicious in a hurry.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of shallots, garlic, and spices creates a mouthwatering sauce that coats every noodle perfectly.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this dish! Adjust the spice level to suit your family’s taste.
• Customizable: Add in your favorite veggies or proteins to make it uniquely yours!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the sauce ahead of time, and all you need to do is cook the noodles when you’re ready to eat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to create these delightful Shallot Chili Oil Noodles. Most of these are likely already in your kitchen!

• 5-6 ounces noodles (cooked according to package instructions)
• 1 large shallot (finely diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (finely minced)
• 2 Tablespoons oil (I used avocado oil)
• 1 teaspoon red chili flakes (reduce to 1/2 teaspoon for a less spicy dish)
• 1 teaspoon gochugaru (reduce to 1/2 teaspoon for a less spicy dish)
• 1 – 1 1/2 Tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 Tablespoon dark soy sauce
• 1/2 Tablespoon black vinegar
• 1/2 Tablespoon brown sugar
• Diced scallions (optional, for serving)
• Chili crisp (optional, for serving)

Variations

One of the best things about Shallot Chili Oil Noodles is their flexibility! Here are some fun ways to switch things up:

• Add Veggies: Toss in some stir-fried broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for extra nutrition and color.
• Change the Protein: Stir in tofu or chickpeas for added texture and protein—perfect if you want something heartier!
• Experiment with Spices: If you like experimenting with flavors, try adding sesame oil or fresh ginger for an extra kick!
• Serve Cold: For a refreshing twist, let the noodles cool and serve them as a cold noodle salad with added vegetables.

How to Make Shallot Chili Oil Noodles

Step 1: Cook Your Noodles

Start by boiling water and cooking the noodles according to package instructions. This usually takes between 5 to 12 minutes. Once they’re cooked, be sure to drain them well and set them aside. Cooking the noodles first ensures they are hot and ready when it’s time to combine everything!

Step 2: Prepare Your Aromatics

While your noodles are cooking, finely dice the shallot and mince the garlic. These two ingredients are crucial because they add depth of flavor to our sauce. Start cooking them about two minutes before your noodles finish—this way, you’ll have everything ready at once!

Step 3: Sauté Shallots and Garlic

In a saucepan over medium heat, warm up your oil until it’s hot but not smoking. Add in those diced shallots and minced garlic. Sauté them together for about 2–3 minutes until they become fragrant and slightly translucent. This step is vital because it releases their natural sweetness.

Step 4: Spice It Up

Next, sprinkle in the red chili flakes and gochugaru; sauté them with shallots and garlic for another 30 seconds. This helps activate their flavors without burning them—just keep an eye on it!

Step 5: Create Your Sauce

Now comes the fun part! Turn off the heat after sautéing; immediately add soy sauce, dark soy sauce, black vinegar, and brown sugar into your pan. Stir everything together until combined; we want that sugar completely dissolved so you get a smooth sauce.

Step 6: Combine Noodles with Sauce

Once your sauce is ready and smelling divine, add those cooked noodles right into the pan! Toss them around gently until every strand is coated with that luscious mixture. This step ensures each bite carries all those wonderful flavors.

Step 7: Serve It Up!

Finally, serve your Shallot Chili Oil Noodles hot! For an extra touch of yumminess, top with freshly chopped scallions or a drizzle of chili crisp if you’d like some added crunch and spice.

Enjoy digging into this delightful bowl of comfort food!

Pro Tips for Making Shallot Chili Oil Noodles

Creating the perfect Shallot Chili Oil Noodles is all about attention to detail and a little bit of love! Here are some pro tips to elevate your dish:

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh shallots and garlic will provide a vibrant flavor that dried or old ingredients simply can’t match. This freshness is key to achieving that authentic taste.

• Monitor the heat: Make sure you don’t burn the shallots and garlic while sautéing. Cooking them on medium heat allows their flavors to develop without losing their delightful taste.

• Customize the spice level: Adjust the amount of red chili flakes and gochugaru based on your personal preference. It’s always easier to add more spice than to take it away, ensuring your noodles fit your taste perfectly.

• Experiment with sauces: Feel free to experiment with different types of soy sauce or even try adding a splash of sesame oil for an extra layer of flavor. Each variation can uniquely enhance the dish.

• Serve immediately: These noodles are best enjoyed fresh out of the pan when they’re hot and coated in that luscious shallot chili oil sauce. The flavors meld beautifully as they sit, but nothing beats that fresh taste!

How to Serve Shallot Chili Oil Noodles

Presentation is key when it comes to serving your Shallot Chili Oil Noodles! Here are some ideas to make your dish visually appealing and delicious.

Garnishes

• Chopped scallions: Freshly diced scallions add a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the spiciness of the noodles.
• Chili crisp: A spoonful of chili crisp not only enhances the flavor but also adds a delightful crunch that takes each bite to another level.
• Sesame seeds: Sprinkling toasted sesame seeds on top introduces a nutty finish, which pairs perfectly with the bold flavors in this dish.

Side Dishes

• Steamed broccoli: This simple side provides a nutritious crunch that balances the richness of the noodles. Plus, it adds vibrant green to your plate!
• Cucumber salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds offers a cool contrast and helps cleanse your palate between bites.
• Edamame: Steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt makes for an easy, protein-packed side dish that’s fun to eat and complements the meal beautifully.
• Miso soup: A warm bowl of miso soup can round out your meal, providing comforting umami flavors that pair well with spicy noodles.

Enjoy making and sharing these Shallot Chili Oil Noodles with friends or family; they’re sure to impress!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Shallot Chili Oil Noodles are perfect for meal prep, making them a quick go-to option for busy days. You can easily make a larger batch and enjoy them throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the noodles to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer them to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Portion the noodles into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Make sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or oil if needed to loosen them up.
• You can also microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

If you have questions about these delicious noodles, you’re in the right place!

Can I adjust the spice level in Shallot Chili Oil Noodles?

Absolutely! You can reduce the amount of red chili flakes and gochugaru to suit your taste. Start with less and adjust as needed.

How long do Shallot Chili Oil Noodles last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, these noodles will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Can I make Shallot Chili Oil Noodles gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free noodles and ensure that your soy sauce is gluten-free, such as tamari.

What toppings pair well with Shallot Chili Oil Noodles?

Freshly chopped scallions and chili crisp add great flavor and texture. Feel free to get creative with other toppings like sesame seeds or roasted peanuts!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Shallot Chili Oil Noodles! They are not only quick and easy but also bursting with flavor that warms your soul. Enjoy experimenting with this recipe, and don’t hesitate to share your own twist on it. Happy cooking!