Gluten-free option, Nut-free, Soy-free option
This dish pairs rice noodles with a sweet and savory sesame sauce. The addition of the cornstarch slurry makes the sauce thick and sticky. Serve these Sesame Noodles with Spicy Gochujang Broccoli Wings or Orange Tofu.
“Sesame Noodles” is a classic and flavorful dish that originates from Asian cuisine, particularly popular in Chinese and Japanese cooking. This dish features tender and chewy noodles coated in a savory and aromatic sesame-infused sauce. It’s a simple yet satisfying recipe that can be enjoyed as a main course or a side dish.
The combination of rich sesame oil, soy sauce, garlic, and other seasonings creates a harmonious blend of flavors that dance on your palate. The addition of chili garlic sauce adds a delightful kick of heat, balanced by the sweetness of brown sugar and the tanginess of rice vinegar. The sauce is both savory and slightly sweet, making it an appealing choice for those who enjoy a balance of taste sensations.
Sesame Noodles are often garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds, adding a burst of freshness and a pleasant crunch to each bite. The dish can be customized to your taste by adjusting the level of spiciness, sweetness, or even the type of noodles used.
These noodles are not only delicious but also versatile. You can enjoy them warm or cold, making them a great option for picnics, potlucks, or as a convenient and flavorful meal on the go. As a bonus, they are relatively quick and easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights when you’re craving something satisfying and comforting.
Whether you’re a fan of Asian cuisine or just looking to explore new flavors, Sesame Noodles are a delightful choice that offers a symphony of tastes and textures. So, gather your ingredients and enjoy this delectable dish that brings a taste of Asia to your plate.
PREP TIME: 5 minutes
COOK TIME: 10 minutes, plus time to cook noodles
YIELD: 6 to 8 servings
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 tbsp (8 g) cornstarch
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) water
- 3 tbsp (45 ml) pure (untoasted) sesame oil
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled and minced, or 4 tsp (12 g) jarred minced garlic
- ⅓ cup (80 ml) soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free or coconut aminos for soy-free)
- ⅓ cup (73 g) packed light brown sugar
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) chili garlic sauce
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) unseasoned rice vinegar
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 1 (14-oz [396-g]) package rice noodles (use the thickness of your choice; any type will work)
FOR SERVING:
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- Sesame seeds
INSTRUCTIONS:
- In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch with the water. Set aside.
- In a large sauté pan, heat the sesame oil over medium-low heat. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until fragrant.
- Stir in the soy sauce, brown sugar, chili garlic sauce, rice vinegar, and garlic powder. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, whisking constantly.
- Whisk in the cornstarch slurry. Lower the heat to low, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Let the sauce cook, whisking often, until it becomes thick and sticky, 3 to 5 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse in cold water.
- Stir the cooked noodles into the sauce.
- Serve the noodles topped with green onion and sesame seeds.
