Shallot Chili Oil Noodles

These Shallot Chili Oil Noodles are a delightful and spicy dish that can be whipped up in just 15 minutes. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe combines the rich flavors of shallots and chili oil to create a comforting meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply want something tasty after a long day, these noodles are versatile enough to suit any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 15 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: The combination of shallots, garlic, and spices creates an explosion of flavor that will satisfy your taste buds.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level by modifying the amount of chili flakes and gochugaru according to your preference.
• Vegan-Friendly: With no animal products involved, this dish is suitable for various dietary preferences without compromising on taste.
• Comfort Food: The warmth and richness of this noodle dish make it ideal for cozy meals at home.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Saucepan
• Cooking spoon
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Saucepan: Essential for heating your oil and combining all the flavors in one pot, ensuring a delicious sauce.
• Cooking Spoon: Helps in mixing the ingredients thoroughly without damaging your saucepan.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes dicing shallots and mincing garlic quick and efficient.
• Cutting Board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients while keeping your kitchen organized.

Ingredients

These spicy shallot chili oil noodles can be made in 15 minutes for a comforting, quick, & easy vegan noodle dish!

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

Optional Toppings

• Diced scallions (for serving)
• Chili crisp (for serving)

How to Make Shallot Chili Oil Noodles

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Boil water and cook noodles according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside. This should take anywhere from 5-12 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Shallot Chili Oil Sauce

While the noodles are cooking, dice the shallot and mince the garlic. Start cooking the shallot chili oil sauce about 2 minutes before the noodles are done cooking.

Step 3: Sauté Shallots and Garlic

Heat the oil in a saucepan on medium heat. Once hot, add in the shallots and garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant.

Step 4: Add Spices

Add in the red pepper chili flakes and gochugaru. Sauté with the shallots and garlic for another 30 seconds. Then turn off the heat to prevent burning.

Step 5: Combine Sauce Ingredients

Immediately add soy sauce, dark soy sauce, black vinegar, and brown sugar to the saucepan. Stir everything together for about 1 minute until well mixed.

Step 6: Mix with Noodles

Once combined and sugar has dissolved completely, add in the cooked noodles. Mix them with the sauce until they are thoroughly coated.

Step 7: Serve

Serve your shallot chili oil noodles hot. Top with freshly chopped scallions and chili crisp if desired for an even more delicious dish!

How to Serve Shallot Chili Oil Noodles

Shallot chili oil noodles are a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions that enhance the flavors of this quick and easy meal.

Top with Fresh Ingredients

• Chopped Scallions: Adding fresh scallions gives your noodles a crunchy texture and vibrant color.
• Chili Crisp: A dollop of chili crisp adds an extra layer of spice and richness to the dish.

Pair with Protein

• Grilled Chicken: Serve with slices of grilled chicken for a heartier meal.
• Sautéed Tofu: For a plant-based option, sautéed tofu pairs well and absorbs the delicious sauce.

Serve with Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: This healthy side not only complements the noodles but also adds nutrition.
• Stir-Fried Bok Choy: Lightly stir-fried bok choy brings a lovely crunch and freshness to your plate.

How to Perfect Shallot Chili Oil Noodles

To make your shallot chili oil noodles even more delicious, consider these tips for perfecting the dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shallots and garlic elevate the flavors significantly compared to dried alternatives.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Modify the amount of red chili flakes and gochugaru to suit your heat preference.
• Don’t Overcook Noodles: Follow package instructions carefully to avoid mushy noodles; they should be al dente.
• Mix Sauce Thoroughly: Ensure all ingredients for the sauce are well combined before adding noodles for even flavor distribution.

Best Side Dishes for Shallot Chili Oil Noodles

Pairing shallot chili oil noodles with the right sides can create a delightful meal experience. Here are some excellent side dishes to consider.

1. Crispy Vegetable Spring Rolls: These provide a satisfying crunch and can be filled with your favorite veggies.
2. Spicy Edamame: Tossed in sea salt and chili flakes, these make for a protein-packed appetizer.
3. Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed with garlic, these green beans add freshness and flavor alongside your noodles.
4. Sesame Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad that balances out the spiciness of the noodles.
5. Vegetable Fried Rice: This classic dish works well as a filling side that complements the flavors of the noodles.
6. Miso Soup: A warm, comforting soup that pairs nicely with Asian-inspired dishes like shallot chili oil noodles.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Shallot Chili Oil Noodles even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using the wrong noodles: Not all noodles are created equal. Choose the right type based on your desired texture and flavor. Look for noodles that will hold the sauce well.
• Overcooking the shallots: Sautéing shallots too long can lead to bitterness. Keep an eye on them and remove them from heat as soon as they turn golden.
• Skipping the brown sugar: Omitting brown sugar can make your dish taste flat. The sweetness balances the heat from chili flakes, enhancing overall flavor.
• Not adjusting spice levels: Everyone has different spice tolerance. Always taste your sauce and adjust red chili flakes and gochugaru to suit your preference.
• Neglecting to mix thoroughly: If you don’t mix the noodles with the sauce well, they may not absorb the flavors properly. Stir until every noodle is coated evenly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow noodles to cool before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Shallot Chili Oil Noodles

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month.
• Portion the noodles for easier thawing later.

Reheating Shallot Chili Oil Noodles

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place noodles in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place noodles in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth, and toss noodles until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How do I make Shallot Chili Oil Noodles spicier?

You can increase the amount of red chili flakes or gochugaru in the recipe. Adding fresh sliced chili peppers can also enhance spiciness.

Can I use different types of noodles?

Absolutely! You can use rice noodles, udon, or even whole wheat pasta depending on your preference and dietary needs.

Are Shallot Chili Oil Noodles vegan?

Yes, this recipe is completely vegan as it contains no animal products or derivatives.

What can I serve with Shallot Chili Oil Noodles?

These noodles pair well with steamed vegetables or a light salad on the side. Consider adding tofu for extra protein!

Final Thoughts

Shallot Chili Oil Noodles are a quick and delicious meal that delivers on flavor and comfort. With just a few ingredients, you can create a satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or protein options like chicken or tofu for added variety!