Shallot Chili Oil Noodles

If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and packed with flavor, then these Shallot Chili Oil Noodles are a perfect choice! This recipe has quickly become one of my go-to meals for those busy weeknights when I want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of spicy shallots and fragrant garlic creates such a satisfying aroma that fills your home, making it feel extra special.

What I love most about this dish is its versatility. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining friends, these noodles are sure to impress. Plus, they come together in just 15 minutes, making them ideal for last-minute cravings or cozy family dinners!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 15 minutes from start to finish, you’ll be enjoying your meal in no time!
• Flavor Packed: The blend of shallots and chili oil creates a rich flavor that will make your taste buds dance.
• Vegan-Friendly: This dish is completely plant-based, so everyone can enjoy it!
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level or add your favorite veggies to make it your own.
• Leftovers Are Great: These noodles taste amazing the next day, making them perfect for meal prep!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to whip up these Shallot Chili Oil Noodles. You may already have most of these in your pantry!

• 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 parts about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add Vegetables: Toss in some fresh veggies like bell peppers or snap peas for added crunch and nutrition.
• Change the Noodles: Use rice noodles or gluten-free pasta if you’re looking for alternatives.
• Swap the Protein: Add tofu or tempeh to make this dish heartier.
• Adjust the Spice: If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the amount of chili flakes and gochugaru.

How to Make Shallot Chili Oil Noodles

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Start by boiling water and cooking the noodles according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set them aside. This usually takes about 5-12 minutes. Cooking the noodles first ensures they’re ready 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. Begin making your shallot chili oil sauce just as your noodles are nearing completion. Heating the oil allows it to infuse with flavors from the shallots and garlic.

Step 3: Sauté Shallots and Garlic

In a saucepan over medium heat, warm up your chosen oil until it’s hot but not smoking. Add in the diced shallots and minced garlic. Sauté them together for about 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant and translucent—this step brings out their natural sweetness.

Step 4: Add Spices

Once your shallots and garlic are ready, sprinkle in the red chili flakes and gochugaru. Sauté everything together for another 30 seconds before turning off the heat; this helps release even more flavor without burning any ingredients.

Step 5: Create Your Sauce

Immediately after removing from heat, pour in the soy sauce, dark soy sauce, black vinegar, and brown sugar. Stir everything together well for about a minute until combined. The sugar should dissolve completely here, giving you that sweet-salty balance we all crave.

Step 6: Combine with Noodles

Now comes my favorite part! Add in your cooked noodles into the saucepan with the sauce. Toss everything together until each noodle is fully coated with that delicious mixture.

Step 7: Serve It Up!

Serve your Shallot Chili Oil Noodles hot right away! For an extra touch of flavor and color, top with freshly chopped scallions and a drizzle of chili crisp if you’re feeling adventurous. Enjoy every spicy bite!

This recipe not only satisfies hunger but also warms hearts—perfect for sharing with loved ones!

Pro Tips for Making Shallot Chili Oil Noodles

Creating a delicious bowl of shallot chili oil noodles is easy, but a few handy tips can take your dish to the next level!

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh shallots and garlic will enhance the flavor of your sauce, making it more aromatic and vibrant.

• Adjust spice levels – Feel free to modify the chili flakes and gochugaru to match your spice tolerance. Balancing heat ensures everyone at the table can enjoy their meal!

• Cook noodles al dente – Slightly undercooking the noodles can prevent them from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce, giving you that perfect bite.

• Experiment with oils – Try different oils like sesame or peanut for added depth in flavor. Each oil brings its unique taste profile that can transform the dish.

• Don’t skip the garnishes – A sprinkle of scallions or a dollop of chili crisp not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the flavor and texture of your noodles.

How to Serve Shallot Chili Oil Noodles

Serving shallot chili oil noodles is all about presentation and complementary flavors. Here are some ideas to elevate your dish!

Garnishes

• Chopped scallions – Freshly chopped scallions add a mild onion flavor and a pop of color, making your dish visually appealing.

• Chili crisp – This crunchy topping brings an extra layer of spice and texture, elevating each bite with its savory goodness.

• Sesame seeds – A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds nuttiness and crunch, enhancing both flavor and presentation.

Side Dishes

• Stir-fried vegetables – A mix of colorful veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas stir-fried with garlic can complement your noodles beautifully while adding nutrition.

• Cucumber salad – A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar offers a cool contrast to the spicy noodles and balances the dish perfectly.

• Spring rolls – Light and crispy spring rolls filled with fresh vegetables make for a delightful side that pairs well with the bold flavors of your noodles.

• Miso soup – A warm bowl of miso soup serves as a comforting side, providing umami richness that complements the spiciness of the shallot chili oil noodles wonderfully.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll not only enjoy a fantastic meal but impress your family or guests too! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Shallot Chili Oil Noodles recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week, making your lunches or dinners not only quick but also incredibly flavorful.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They should keep well for up to 3 days.
• To prevent them from sticking together, consider tossing them with a little extra oil before storing.

Freezing

• While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the noodles if necessary.
• Place the cooled noodles in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to a month. Just make sure to label the container with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat, simply place your noodles in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or oil to help loosen them up.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through until heated through.

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 replace regular soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative to make this dish gluten-free.

How can I adjust the spice level in Shallot Chili Oil Noodles?

To reduce the spiciness, use less red chili flakes and gochugaru. Start with just 1/2 teaspoon of each and taste as you go!

What kind of noodles work best for Shallot Chili Oil Noodles?

You can use any type of noodle; however, rice noodles or wheat-based ramen work particularly well for this recipe.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Shallot Chili Oil Noodles as much as I do! This dish is not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor that will warm your heart. Whether you’re whipping it up for lunch or dinner, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy every delicious bite and don’t forget to share your experience!