Introduction
Garlic noodles are a delicious and simple dish that combines the rich flavors of butter and garlic with the satisfying texture of noodles. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal at home. With just a few ingredients, you can create a flavorful dish that will impress your family and friends.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Noodles: 140g (5 oz) dried ramen or noodle cakes (2 cakes)
Unsalted butter: 30g (2 tablespoons)
Garlic: 2 tablespoons (approximately 6 cloves), finely minced
Oyster sauce: 2 teaspoons
Fish sauce: 2 teaspoons
Maggi seasoning: 1½ teaspoons
Noodle cooking water: ¼ cup, more if needed
Parmesan cheese: ¼ cup, finely grated
Green onion: ¼ cup, thinly sliced
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Total Time
20 minutes
Yield
Serves 2-3
Instructions
1. Cook the noodles: Prepare the noodles according to the package instructions. Before draining, reserve about ½ cup of the cooking water. Drain the noodles and set them aside.
2. Prepare the sauce: In the same saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Combine sauce ingredients: Add the oyster sauce, fish sauce, Maggi seasoning, and ¼ cup of the reserved noodle cooking water to the saucepan. Stir to combine.
4. Add noodles and cheese: Return the cooked noodles to the saucepan. Add the grated parmesan cheese and toss everything together for about 30 seconds, ensuring the noodles are well-coated with the sauce. If the mixture appears too thick or sticky, add more of the reserved cooking water, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is achieved.
5. Finish with green onions: Stir in the sliced green onions.
6. Serve immediately: Enjoy the garlic noodles hot, optionally topped with a fried egg and a side of vegetables like broccolini for a complete meal.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Cook the noodles
Prepare the noodles according to the package instructions. Before draining, reserve about ½ cup of the cooking water. Drain the noodles and set them aside.
Prepare the sauce
In the same saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Combine sauce ingredients
Add the oyster sauce, fish sauce, Maggi seasoning, and ¼ cup of the reserved noodle cooking water to the saucepan. Stir to combine.
Add noodles and cheese
Return the cooked noodles to the saucepan. Add the grated parmesan cheese and toss everything together for about 30 seconds, ensuring the noodles are well-coated with the sauce. If the mixture appears too thick or sticky, add more of the reserved cooking water, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is achieved.
Finish with green onions
Stir in the sliced green onions.
Serve immediately
Enjoy the garlic noodles hot, optionally topped with a fried egg and a side of vegetables like broccolini for a complete meal.
Notes
Ingredient substitutions
If oyster sauce is unavailable, you may substitute with soy sauce, although the flavor will be slightly different.
Vegetarian option
For a vegetarian variation, you can replace the fish sauce with a plant-based alternative or additional soy sauce.
Spice it up
For a spicier version, consider adding red pepper flakes or sliced chili peppers when sautéing the garlic.
Storage suggestions
Leftover garlic noodles can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan with a splash of water.
Cook techniques
Cooking Noodles
To cook the noodles, follow the package instructions for the best texture. Always remember to reserve some of the cooking water before draining, as it can be useful for adjusting the sauce consistency.
Sauteing Garlic
When sautéing garlic, use medium heat to prevent burning. Garlic should be cooked just until fragrant, which typically takes about 30 seconds. This enhances its flavor without making it bitter.
Making the Sauce
Combine oyster sauce, fish sauce, and Maggi seasoning in a pan with melted butter and sautéed garlic. This mixture creates a savory base that will coat the noodles beautifully.
Tossing Noodles
After adding cooked noodles to the sauce, toss everything together over low heat. This ensures that the noodles are evenly coated, and you can add reserved cooking water gradually if the dish looks too thick.
Finishing with Green Onions
Add sliced green onions at the end to maintain their crispness and fresh flavor. Stir them in just before serving for the best taste.
Serving Suggestions
For a complete meal, consider serving garlic noodles with a fried egg on top and a side of vegetables like broccolini. This adds protein and nutrients, balancing the dish.
FAQ
Can I use other types of noodles instead of ramen?
Yes, you can use other types of noodles, such as soba or udon, but cooking times may vary.
How can I make the dish vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, you can omit fish sauce and replace it with a vegetarian alternative, such as soy sauce or a mushroom-based seasoning.
What can I use if I don’t have Maggi seasoning?
If you don’t have Maggi seasoning, you can substitute it with soy sauce or a combination of soy sauce and a bit of sugar for sweetness.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely! You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, beef, or tofu to the noodles for additional protein.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out.
Conclusion
This simple yet flavorful garlic noodles recipe brings together the rich umami flavors of oyster and fish sauces while being enhanced by the creamy texture of Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick dinner or a satisfying lunch, it’s a dish that is sure to impress with minimal effort.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Garlic Shrimp Noodles
Add sautéed shrimp to the garlic noodles for a protein boost and an additional layer of flavor.
Vegetable Stir-Fry Noodles
Incorporate a mix of seasonal vegetables such as bell peppers, snow peas, and carrots for added nutrition and crunch.
Spicy Garlic Noodles
Introduce some red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha into the sauce for a spicy kick that complements the garlic beautifully.
Cilantro Lime Noodles
Toss in freshly chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice before serving to give the dish a refreshing twist.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Noodles
For a creamier version, add a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche along with the Parmesan cheese to create a rich sauce.
Tofu Garlic Noodles
Include pan-fried tofu cubes for a vegetarian option that still packs a protein punch and pairs perfectly with the garlicky sauce.
Sesame Garlic Noodles
Add a drizzle of sesame oil and sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for a nutty flavor enhancement that complements the existing ingredients.
Egg Drop Noodles
Finish the dish by swirling in a beaten egg for a silky texture, creating a luxurious and hearty addition to the garlic noodles.
