Garlic Chili Oil Noodles are a bold, spicy, and deeply flavorful dish that comes together in minutes. The noodles are coated in a fragrant mixture of chili oil, soy sauce, garlic, and a touch of sweetness. This recipe is perfect for quick lunches, late-night cravings, or as a base to build on with vegetables, tofu, or chicken. It’s simple, comforting, and full of aroma from the sizzling garlic chili oil.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 2
Ingredients:
200 g noodles (wheat noodles, ramen, or spaghetti)
3 tablespoons chili oil (with flakes)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon dark soy sauce (optional, for color and depth)
1 teaspoon rice vinegar or lime juice
2 teaspoons brown sugar or honey
4 garlic cloves, finely minced
1 teaspoon grated ginger (optional)
2 tablespoons vegetable or sesame oil
1 tablespoon chopped green onions
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper (adjust to spice level)
Salt to taste
Toasted sesame seeds and chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
-
Cook the Noodles
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add noodles and cook until tender, according to package directions. Drain and set aside, reserving 2 tablespoons of the noodle water. -
Prepare the Sauce Base
In a heatproof mixing bowl, combine chili oil, soy sauce, dark soy sauce (if using), rice vinegar, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to combine. -
Infuse the Garlic and Chili Oil
In a small saucepan or wok, heat the vegetable or sesame oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring constantly for 30–40 seconds until golden and fragrant—don’t let it burn. -
Sizzle the Sauce
Immediately pour the hot garlic oil into the bowl with the sauce mixture. The hot oil will sizzle and release the deep aroma of the chili and garlic. Mix everything together. -
Toss the Noodles
Add the cooked noodles to the bowl, along with the reserved noodle water. Toss thoroughly until all noodles are evenly coated with the spicy garlic oil sauce. -
Finish and Serve
Mix in chopped green onions and red pepper flakes. Taste and adjust with extra soy sauce or chili oil if you want more flavor.
Transfer to serving bowls and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and cilantro. Serve warm.
Nutrition (per serving):
Calories: 430
Protein: 9g
Carbohydrates: 58g
Fat: 18g
Sugar: 6g
Fiber: 3g
Sodium: 820mg
Tips:
For extra crunch, top with crushed peanuts or crispy shallots.
Add sautéed mushrooms, bok choy, or tofu for a heartier version.
If you like it spicier, increase the chili flakes or use homemade chili crisp.
You can store leftover noodles in the fridge for up to two days—reheat with a splash of water or oil to revive the texture.
For a non-vegan option, add a fried or poached egg on top—it pairs perfectly with the spicy, garlicky flavor.
