Introduction
Delve into the delicious world of Asian-inspired cuisine with this flavorful recipe featuring a delightful sesame sauce. Perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a quick meal, this dish combines tender noodles with fresh vegetables, protein, and a rich, creamy sauce that tantalizes the taste buds. Whether you’re preparing a hearty lunch or a satisfying dinner, these bowls are versatile and easy to customize.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Sesame Sauce:
– 1/4 cup sesame paste (or tahini)
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 3 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 clove garlic, grated
– Sriracha and sugar to taste
Bowls:
– 6–8 ounces stir fry noodles, Chinese egg noodles, or linguine
– 2 cups edamame, cooked
– 2 cucumbers, diced
– 1 lb. chicken breast, cooked and diced (optional)
– Sesame seeds
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Total Time
25 minutes
Yield
Serves 4
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Sauce
Whisk together the sesame paste, warm water, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and grated garlic in a mixing bowl until smooth. For a quicker method, you can blend the ingredients in a food processor or shake them together in a jar until fully combined.
Cook the Noodles
Bring a pot of water to a boil and add the stir fry noodles, Chinese egg noodles, or linguine. Cook for a duration that is a few minutes less than what the package instructions recommend to ensure that the noodles are perfectly al dente. Once cooked, if the noodles appear sticky, rinse them under cold water to separate them. After rinsing, toss the noodles with approximately half of the prepared sesame sauce to coat them evenly.
Assemble the Bowls
Take individual containers and divide the cooked noodles, edamame, diced cucumber, and diced chicken (if using) among them. Drizzle each bowl with additional sesame sauce to enhance the flavor. Finally, sprinkle sesame seeds on top for garnish. These bowls can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and can be enjoyed either hot or cold.
Notes
Storage
The assembled bowls can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, making them convenient for meal prep.
Serving Suggestions
These bowls can be served warm or cold, allowing for flexibility depending on personal preference or seasonal temperatures.
Customization
Feel free to adjust the quantity of Sriracha and sugar in the sesame sauce to cater to your taste preferences for spice and sweetness.
Dietary Alternatives
For a vegetarian version, you may skip the chicken or substitute it with tofu or other proteins of your choice.
Cook techniques
Preparing the Sauce
Whisk together or blend all sauce ingredients until very smooth, ensuring a well-combined texture.
Cooking the Noodles
Boil the noodles for a shorter time than the package instructions suggest. After boiling, rinse with cold water to prevent sticking if necessary.
Assembling the Bowls
Evenly distribute the noodles, cooked edamame, diced cucumber, and optional cooked chicken into individual containers. Drizzle additional sesame sauce over the top and finish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
FAQ
Can I substitute sesame paste with something else?
Yes, tahini is a common substitute for sesame paste, and other nut butters can be used, although the flavor will differ.
How long can I store the bowls in the refrigerator?
These assembled bowls can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
Can I use different types of noodles?
Yes, feel free to use stir fry noodles, Chinese egg noodles, linguine, or any preferred pasta varieties.
Is the chicken necessary for the recipe?
No, the chicken is optional. The dish can be made vegetarian by omitting the chicken and possibly adding more vegetables or protein alternatives.
How can I adjust the spiciness of the sauce?
You can increase or decrease the amount of Sriracha according to your heat preference, and sugar can balance the heat if needed.
Conclusion
This sesame sauce and bowl combination offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures, perfect for a quick meal that is both nutritious and satisfying. You can easily adjust the components to fit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Enjoy the versatility of this dish, whether served hot or cold.
Chicken and Vegetable Stir-Fry
Substitute chicken breast with beef or tofu and add assorted vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for a colorful stir-fry.
Cold Sesame Noodle Salad
Use the same noodle preparation and sauce, but let the dish chill in the refrigerator and serve it as a refreshing salad topped with chopped peanuts or sliced green onions.
Edamame and Avocado Dip
Blend cooked edamame with avocado and sesame sauce for a creamy dip. Serve with vegetable sticks or crackers.
Grain Bowl Variation
Replace noodles with quinoa or brown rice, add roasted sweet potatoes, and drizzle with the sesame sauce for a hearty grain bowl.
Veggie-Loaded Rice Paper Spring Rolls
Wrap cooked edamame, cucumber, and diced veggies in rice paper, and serve with the sesame sauce for a fresh spring roll option.
Tofu and Edamame Buddha Bowl
Cube and sauté tofu for added protein. Combine with edamame, cucumbers, and the sesame sauce for a nutritious Buddha bowl.
