Sesame Garlic Ramen Noodles are a delightful fusion of flavors that bring a touch of Asian-inspired cuisine right to your dinner table. This dish combines the nutty richness of sesame oil with the aromatic zing of garlic, enveloping tender ramen noodles in a savory, umami-packed sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a comforting bowl of goodness, these noodles are not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to prepare, making them a go-to recipe for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You’ll fall in love with this recipe for its incredible depth of flavor and simplicity. The harmonious blend of sesame and garlic creates a mouthwatering aroma that fills your kitchen, setting the stage for a delicious meal. The cooking process is quick, allowing you to whip up a satisfying dish in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings with friends. Plus, it fits seamlessly into various dietary lifestyles, whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, or simply looking for a quick and healthy meal option.
Tips and Tricks
To elevate your Sesame Garlic Ramen Noodles, consider these tips and tricks:
- Use fresh garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides a robust flavor that beats jarred alternatives.
- Customize the spice: For a kick, add red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the sauce.
- Add protein: Incorporate cooked chicken, tofu, or shrimp for a complete meal.
- Rinse your noodles: After boiling, rinse the ramen noodles under cold water to prevent them from sticking together.
- Garnish generously: Don’t skimp on garnishes like scallions and sesame seeds for added flavor and texture.
Make Ahead Tips
For those who like to prep ahead, you can make the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Simply reheat it on the stovetop when you’re ready to use it. You can also cook the noodles in advance and store them in an airtight container; just remember to toss them with a little sesame oil to prevent sticking. These prepped components will save you time on busy evenings!
Recipe Variations
Here are some fun variations to try:
- Vegetable stir-in: Sauté bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas and toss them in for added nutrition.
- Different noodles: Swap ramen for udon or rice noodles for a different texture.
- Peanut sauce twist: Add peanut butter to the sauce for a creamy, nutty flavor.
- Herb infusion: Use fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for a fragrant touch.
How to Serve
Serve your Sesame Garlic Ramen Noodles in a deep bowl for a cozy presentation. Top with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and a drizzle of extra sesame oil. For an added touch, you can place a soft-boiled egg on top and serve with a side of crispy seaweed snacks or pickled vegetables for a delightful contrast.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair your ramen with a refreshing iced green tea or a light, crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc. For a heartier side, consider serving with gyoza or a simple cucumber salad tossed in rice vinegar. If you’re in the mood for dessert, a light mango sorbet would be the perfect sweet finish.
How to Store
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the noodles and sauce separately; they will stay fresh for about a month. To reheat, simply microwave the noodles and sauce until warmed through, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Equipment Needed
You will need:
- A large pot for boiling the noodles
- A mixing bowl for combining the sauce ingredients
- A whisk or fork for mixing
- A frying pan or saucepan for heating the sauce
- Tongs or chopsticks for tossing the noodles
Alternatives: If you don’t have a frying pan, you can use a saucepan or even a wok.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this dish vegan, simply ensure that the ramen noodles are egg-free and use soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free option. For a nut-free variation, omit any potential nut ingredients and use sunflower oil instead of sesame oil.
Seasonal Adaptations
In winter, consider adding hearty vegetables like kale or bok choy for extra warmth and nutrition. In the summer, fresh ingredients such as snap peas and bell peppers can brighten up the dish. You can also swap out sesame seeds for pumpkin seeds in the fall for a seasonal twist.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use instant ramen? Yes, instant ramen works well, but avoid using the flavor packet unless you want an extra boost of umami.
- How long do I cook the ramen? Follow the package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes for traditional ramen.
- What if I don’t have sesame oil? You can substitute with another oil, but the flavor will differ. Toasted sunflower oil is a good alternative.
- Can I add meat? Absolutely! Cooked chicken, beef, or shrimp are fantastic additions.
How To Make Sesame Garlic Ramen Noodles
Sesame Garlic Ramen Noodles
Sesame Garlic Ramen Noodles are a delightful fusion of flavors that bring a touch of Asian-inspired cuisine right to your dinner table.
Ingredients
- 8 oz ramen noodles
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce or tamari
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (for vegan)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the ramen noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, minced garlic, soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes until well combined.
- In a frying pan over medium heat, add the sauce mixture and bring to a gentle simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the garlic to infuse the oil.
- Add the cooked ramen noodles to the pan and toss well to coat them in the sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until heated through.
- Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 175Total Fat 9gSaturated Fat 2gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 7gCholesterol 0mgSodium 1294mgCarbohydrates 21gFiber 1gSugar 12gProtein 4g
Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Making Sesame Garlic Ramen Noodles is a rewarding experience that brings warmth and comfort to your dining table. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to indulge in a delightful bowl of noodles. Whether you stick to the classic version or mix it up with your favorite add-ins, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy the cooking process, savor every bite, and share your creations with friends and family!
