Shallot Chili Oil Noodles

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that packs a punch, you’ve come to the right place! These Shallot Chili Oil Noodles are one of my go-to recipes for those busy weeknights when you want something comforting yet effortless. In just 15 minutes, you can whip up this spicy vegan dish that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy dinner for yourself or a gathering with friends, these noodles will definitely impress.

I love this recipe not only for its rich taste but also for how easily it can adapt to your pantry staples or whatever fresh ingredients you have on hand. Let’s dive into why these Shallot Chili Oil Noodles will become a favorite in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Make: With just 15 minutes from start to finish, these noodles are perfect for when you’re short on time.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of shallots, garlic, and chili creates an unforgettable taste that will keep you coming back for more.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spice level or add in your favorite veggies to make it your own!
• Vegan Delight: This dish is entirely plant-based, making it suitable for everyone at the table.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy slurping up these flavorful noodles!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cooking should be simple and enjoyable! For these Shallot Chili Oil Noodles, you’ll only need a handful of wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Noodles

• 5-6 ounces noodles (cooked according to package instructions)

For the Sauce

• 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

For Serving

• Diced scallions (optional)
• Chili crisp (optional)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients and make it your own. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add Veggies: Toss in some sautéed bell peppers or spinach for a nutrient boost.
• Change Up the Noodles: Use rice noodles or even zucchini noodles for a gluten-free option.
• Make It Creamy: Stir in a spoonful of nut butter or coconut milk for a richer sauce.
• Protein Boost: Add tofu or chickpeas if you want some extra protein in your meal.

How to Make Shallot Chili Oil Noodles

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Begin by boiling water and cooking the noodles according to package instructions. This usually takes about 5-12 minutes depending on the type of noodles you choose. Once cooked, drain them and set aside. Cooking them first ensures they’ll be ready right when your sauce is done!

Step 2: Prepare the Shallot Chili Oil Sauce

While the noodles are cooking, finely dice the shallot and mince the garlic. Start preparing your sauce about two minutes before the noodles finish cooking. Heat oil in a saucepan over medium heat—this is where all that delicious flavor starts!

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

Once hot, add in the shallots and garlic, sautéing them for about 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant and slightly golden. This step is crucial as it brings out their sweetness and depth of flavor.

Step 4: Add Spices

Now it’s time to spice things up! Add in red chili flakes and gochugaru, continuing to sauté for another 30 seconds. Be careful not to burn them; we want just enough heat without bitterness.

Step 5: Mix in Sauces

Turn off the heat, then immediately stir in soy sauce, dark soy sauce, black vinegar, and brown sugar. Mix everything together until well combined—this creates that irresistible glaze that will coat your noodles beautifully.

Step 6: Combine with Noodles

Once the sauce is mixed well and the sugar has dissolved completely, add in your cooked noodles. Gently toss them with the sauce until every noodle is nicely coated.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve your shallot chili oil noodles hot! For an extra touch of flavor, top them off with freshly chopped scallions and some chili crisp if desired. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Shallot Chili Oil Noodles

Creating the perfect bowl of shallot chili oil noodles is easier than you think! Here are some handy tips to elevate your dish:

• Choose the right noodles: Opt for fresh or dry wheat noodles for the best texture. They hold the sauce beautifully and make each bite a delight.

• Control the heat: Adjust the amount of red chili flakes and gochugaru based on your spice preference. This ensures you tailor the dish to your liking without overwhelming your palate.

• Let the shallots caramelize: Taking a little extra time to cook the shallots until they’re golden adds a sweet, rich flavor that enhances the overall dish.

• Mix well: After adding the sauce to the noodles, toss them thoroughly to ensure every strand is coated. This makes every bite bursting with flavor!

• Don’t skip on garnishes: Fresh scallions and chili crisp not only add visual appeal but also provide an additional layer of flavor and crunch that makes this dish even more enjoyable.

How to Serve Shallot Chili Oil Noodles

When it comes to serving shallot chili oil noodles, presentation is key! With a few thoughtful touches, you can turn this simple dish into an impressive meal.

Garnishes

• Chopped scallions: A sprinkle of fresh scallions adds a pop of color and a subtle onion flavor that contrasts wonderfully with the rich sauce.
• Chili crisp: This crunchy condiment adds texture and extra heat, making each bite exciting and full of flavor.

Side Dishes

• Cucumber salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar provides a cool contrast to the spicy noodles and helps cleanse your palate.
• Steamed bok choy: Lightly steamed bok choy adds a nutritious green element, balancing the meal while offering a delightful crunch.
• Vegetable spring rolls: Crispy vegetable spring rolls make for a fun appetizer, complementing the texture of the noodles while introducing fresh flavors.
• Miso soup: A warm bowl of miso soup rounds out your meal perfectly, providing a comforting broth that’s both savory and soothing.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your shallot chili oil noodles will not only taste amazing but also look stunning on your dinner table! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Shallot Chili Oil Noodles recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch ahead of time, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Here’s how to store and enjoy your leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the noodles to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Keep the sauce separate if possible, to maintain the noodles’ texture.

Freezing

• To freeze, allow the noodles to cool down fully.
• Portion them into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just make sure to label them with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw frozen noodles in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• To reheat, add a splash of water or vegetable broth in a pan over medium heat and stir until warmed through.
• You can also microwave them in short intervals, stirring in between for even heating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Shallot Chili Oil Noodles that might help you out!

Can I make Shallot Chili Oil Noodles gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute regular soy sauce with gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos. Make sure your noodles are also gluten-free.

How spicy are Shallot Chili Oil Noodles?

The spiciness of Shallot Chili Oil Noodles can be adjusted! Start with less chili flakes and gochugaru if you’re sensitive to heat, then increase according to your preference.

What kind of noodles work best for this recipe?

You can use any type of noodles you like—rice noodles, wheat noodles, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.

Can I add vegetables to Shallot Chili Oil Noodles?

Absolutely! Feel free to toss in your favorite veggies such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas while cooking the shallots and garlic.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! These Shallot Chili Oil Noodles store well in the fridge or freezer, making them an excellent choice for easy meals throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about these Shallot Chili Oil Noodles as I am! This recipe is not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor that’s sure to warm your heart. Enjoy making it as much as I enjoyed sharing it with you! Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations—I would love to hear how it turned out!