Are you craving a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful dinner? Look no further than this delicious Vietnamese Garlic Noodles recipe! This dish is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a truly unforgettable culinary experience. It's a weeknight staple in our house, ready in under 20 minutes and bursting with aromatic garlic and savory goodness. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is perfect for you. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces dried egg noodles (or your favorite noodles)
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 8 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional, but adds great depth of flavor)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
- 2 scallions, thinly sliced, for garnish
- Optional additions: 1/4 cup chopped roasted peanuts, a fried egg, chili flakes for extra spice
Instructions:
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Cook the Noodles: Cook the egg noodles according to package directions. Drain well and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking. Set aside.
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Prepare the Garlic Sauce: While the noodles are cooking, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly golden (about 2-3 minutes). Be careful not to burn the garlic!
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Combine the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), rice vinegar, brown sugar, sesame oil, and black pepper.
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Combine Noodles and Sauce: Add the cooked noodles to the skillet with the garlic. Pour the sauce over the noodles and toss to coat evenly. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and cling to the noodles.
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Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro and sliced scallions. Add roasted peanuts or a fried egg if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious homemade Vietnamese Garlic Noodles!
Cooking Tips for the Best Garlic Noodles:
- Don't burn the garlic: Low and slow cooking is key to achieving the perfect fragrant garlic flavor without bitterness.
- Adjust the seasoning: Taste the sauce before adding it to the noodles and adjust the soy sauce, fish sauce, rice vinegar, or brown sugar to your liking.
- Fresh herbs make a difference: Fresh cilantro and scallions add brightness and freshness to the dish. Don't skip them!
- Noodles matter: While egg noodles are traditional, feel free to experiment with other types of noodles like rice noodles or even spaghetti.
Variations:
- Spicy Garlic Noodles: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Garlic Noodles: Omit the fish sauce for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- Protein Boost: Add cooked shrimp, chicken, or tofu for a more substantial meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 10-15g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This easy recipe for Vietnamese Garlic Noodles is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual get-together. The fragrant garlic, savory sauce, and fresh herbs create a truly unforgettable flavor combination. Enjoy!