Introduction
This delicious noodle stir-fry, infused with rich flavors and a hint of smokiness, is a perfect combination of vegetables, noodles, and a savory sauce. With the option to add a touch of spice, it’s an easy and quick meal that can be prepared in no time. Ideal for a busy weeknight or a casual dinner with friends, this dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
1 large red onion, peeled and thinly sliced
1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
1/2 fresh chili, finely sliced (optional)
6 cloves garlic, peeled and crushed
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
1 tablespoon tahini
2 tablespoons liquid aminos or soy sauce
1/4 cup (60ml) brandy (see note)
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon agave syrup or maple syrup
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
300g cooked noodles or use straight-to-wok noodles
1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
Optional to serve:
Sesame seeds
Sliced spring onions
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Total Time
25 minutes
Yield
Serves 2-3 people
Now, let’s dive into the instructions to create this flavorful dish.
1. Heat the sesame oil in a wok over medium heat, then add the sliced onions, pepper, and chili (if using).
2. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened and just starting to caramelize.
3. Add the garlic and tahini; cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the soy sauce or liquid aminos, syrup, vinegar, brandy, and smoked paprika; let it bubble gently for another minute.
5. Add the cooked noodles and stir well to coat them. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water to reach the desired consistency.
6. Taste and add chili flakes, salt, and pepper as needed.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with sesame seeds and sliced spring onions if desired.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Wok
Heat the sesame oil in a wok over medium heat.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
Add the sliced onions, bell pepper, and fresh chili (if using). Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened and just starting to caramelize.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Tahini
Incorporate the crushed garlic and tahini into the mix, cooking for an additional minute.
Step 4: Combine Sauce Ingredients
Stir in the soy sauce or liquid aminos, agave or maple syrup, rice vinegar, brandy, and smoked paprika. Let it bubble gently for another minute.
Step 5: Add Noodles
Introduce the cooked noodles into the wok and stir well to coat them in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water to achieve the desired consistency.
Step 6: Final Adjustments
Taste the dish and add chili flakes, salt, and pepper as needed.
Step 7: Serve
Serve immediately, garnished with sesame seeds and sliced spring onions if desired.
Notes
Brandy
You can substitute the brandy with vegetable broth or water if you prefer a non-alcoholic option.
Optional Garnishes
Consider adding extra crunch and flavor with toasted sesame seeds and fresh sliced spring onions on top.
Noodle Options
Cooked noodles can be made from scratch or use pre-cooked straight-to-wok noodles for convenience.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing is a cooking technique that involves cooking food quickly in a small amount of oil over medium to high heat. This method is ideal for vegetables, as it helps to retain their texture and color while developing flavors.
Stir-Frying
Stir-frying is similar to sautéing but uses a wok and requires constant stirring or tossing of the ingredients. This technique allows for quick cooking and is great for Asian-inspired dishes, ensuring that vegetables stay crisp and vibrant.
Deglazing
Deglazing involves adding liquid (in this case, brandy) to a hot pan to loosen and dissolve browned bits of food. This adds depth of flavor to sauces and helps create a rich base for the dish.
Mixing
Mixing involves incorporating ingredients together to ensure an even distribution of flavors and textures. In this dish, mixing the cooked noodles with the sauce ensures they are well-coated and absorb the flavors.
Garnishing
Garnishing is the final touch that enhances the presentation of a dish. Sprinkling sesame seeds and sliced spring onions adds visual appeal and a burst of additional flavor.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of oil instead of sesame oil?
Yes, you can use other oils such as olive oil or vegetable oil, but sesame oil adds a distinctive flavor that complements the dish.
Is it necessary to use brandy in the recipe?
Brandy adds richness and depth to the sauce. If you prefer not to use it, you can substitute with vegetable broth or omit it entirely.
Can I make this dish without using noodles?
Yes, you can enjoy the stir-fried vegetables on their own or serve them over rice, quinoa, or another grain of your choice.
What can I use instead of tahini?
If you don’t have tahini, you can substitute it with peanut butter or almond butter for a similar creamy texture and flavor.
How can I adjust the spice level of the dish?
You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less fresh chili or chili flakes according to your taste preference.
Conclusion
This quick and flavorful noodle dish highlights the perfect balance of savory and slightly sweet elements, enhanced by the aromatic essence of sesame oil and spices. It’s a versatile recipe that can easily be adapted to suit various tastes and dietary preferences, making it a delightful option for any meal.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Spicy Edamame and Sweet Potato Stir-Fry
Combine edamame, sweet potato, and the same base sauce, making it a nutritious and filling option.
Tofu and Vegetable Medley
Incorporate cubed tofu along with bok choy and snap peas for a protein-rich vegetarian dish.
Chicken and Broccoli Noodles
Add sliced chicken breast and fresh broccoli for a heartier, protein-packed version of the dish.
Mushroom and Spinach Pasta
Use a mix of mushrooms and fresh spinach instead of bell peppers for a rich umami flavor.
Sweet and Sour Cauliflower
Replace the noodles with steamed cauliflower and add pineapple chunks for a sweet and sour twist.
