Shallot Chili Oil Noodles

These Shallot Chili Oil Noodles are a delightful and quick meal option, perfect for busy weeknights or when you crave something comforting yet flavorful. With just 15 minutes of prep and cooking time, this dish features the aromatic essence of shallots and a spicy kick from chili oil. Ideal for lunch or dinner, these noodles are not only easy to make but also versatile enough to suit any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 15 minutes to complete, making it a great choice for busy days.
• Bold Flavors: The combination of garlic, shallots, and spices creates a rich taste that excites your palate.
• Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice level easily by modifying the amount of chili flakes and gochugaru to fit your preference.
• Vegan-Friendly: This dish is entirely plant-based, catering to various dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Make extra servings for an easy meal the next day—just reheat and enjoy!

Tools and Preparation

To make these tasty noodles, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures smooth preparation and cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• A large pot
• A saucepan
• A cutting board
• A sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Pot: Ideal for boiling noodles efficiently, ensuring they cook evenly in plenty of water.
• Saucepan: Perfect for making the shallot chili oil sauce while keeping flavors concentrated.
• Cutting Board: Provides a safe surface for dicing shallots and mincing garlic without mess.
• Sharp Knife: Essential for quickly chopping ingredients, which speeds up your overall prep time.

Ingredients

These spicy shallot chili oil noodles can be made in 15 minutes for a comforting, quick, & easy vegan noodle dish!

Noodles

• 5-6 ounces noodles (cooked according to package instructions)

Aromatics

• 1 large shallot (finely diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (finely minced)

Sauce Ingredients

• 2 Tablespoons oil (I used avocado oil)
• 1 teaspoon red chili flakes (reduce to 1/2 teaspoon for a less spicy dish)
• 1 teaspoon gochugaru (reduce to 1/2 teaspoon for a less spicy dish)
• 1-1 1/2 Tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 Tablespoon dark soy sauce
• 1/2 Tablespoon black vinegar
• 1/2 Tablespoon brown sugar

Optional Toppings

• Diced scallions (for serving)
• Chili crisp (for serving)

How to Make Shallot Chili Oil Noodles

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Boil water in a large pot. Cook the noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain them and set aside. This process should take about 5-12 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Shallot Chili Oil Sauce

While the noodles are cooking:
1. Dice the shallot and mince the garlic.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, add oil once hot.
3. Add the diced shallots and minced garlic; sauté them for about 2-3 minutes until soft.

Step 3: Add Spices

Add red chili flakes and gochugaru to the saucepan. Sauté with shallots and garlic for another 30 seconds but be careful not to burn them.

Step 4: Combine Sauce Ingredients

Turn off the heat after sautéing:
1. Immediately add soy sauce, dark soy sauce, black vinegar, and brown sugar to the saucepan.
2. Stir well to combine everything for about 1 minute until sugar dissolves.

Step 5: Mix Noodles with Sauce

Once combined:
1. Add cooked noodles into the saucepan with sauce.
2. Toss everything together until noodles are evenly coated with the flavorful sauce.

Step 6: Serve

Serve your shallot chili oil noodles hot! Top with freshly chopped scallions and chili crisp if desired for an extra burst of flavor.

Enjoy your deliciously quick Shallot Chili Oil Noodles!

How to Serve Shallot Chili Oil Noodles

Shallot chili oil noodles are a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

Top with Fresh Ingredients

• Diced Scallions: Sprinkle freshly chopped scallions over the noodles for a burst of flavor and color.
• Chili Crisp: Add a spoonful of chili crisp for an extra layer of heat and crunch.

Pair with a Salad

• Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad balances the spiciness of the noodles with its coolness.
• Asian Slaw: A tangy Asian slaw adds crunch and complements the flavors of the shallot chili oil.

Serve with Protein

• Grilled Chicken: Thinly sliced grilled chicken offers additional protein and pairs well with the spicy noodles.
• Tofu Stir-Fry: For a plant-based option, serve with sautéed tofu for added texture and nutrients.

How to Perfect Shallot Chili Oil Noodles

To make your shallot chili oil noodles even more delightful, consider these tips.

• Bold Flavors: Use high-quality soy sauce for deeper umami flavor.
• Adjust Spiciness: Modify the amount of red chili flakes and gochugaru to suit your spice tolerance.
• Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh shallots and garlic for the best taste and aroma.
• Noodle Variety: Experiment with different types of noodles, such as rice noodles or udon, for unique textures.
• Garnish Creatively: Don’t hesitate to get creative with garnishes like sesame seeds or cilantro for added freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Shallot Chili Oil Noodles

Pairing side dishes with shallot chili oil noodles enhances your meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

1. Edamame: Lightly salted edamame pods provide a healthy snack that complements the main dish well.
2. Vegetable Tempura: Crispy vegetable tempura adds a delightful crunch and richness, balancing the noodle’s spiciness.
3. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup offers soothing flavors that pair nicely with spicy noodles.
4. Spring Rolls: Fresh or fried spring rolls filled with veggies add a refreshing contrast to your meal.
5. Stir-Fried Bok Choy: Quickly stir-fried bok choy enhances your plate with greens and a slight crunch.
6. Seaweed Salad: This refreshing salad brings ocean flavors that balance out the heat from the noodle dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Shallot Chili Oil Noodles, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overcooking the noodles – Ensure you follow the package instructions precisely. Overcooked noodles can become mushy and lose their texture.
• Burning the shallots and garlic – Keep an eye on the saucepan as you sauté. If they burn, they will impart a bitter flavor to your dish. Stir continuously until they turn golden brown.
• Ignoring spice levels – Adjust red chili flakes and gochugaru according to your heat preference. Start low, and you can always add more spice later.
• Not mixing sauce thoroughly – Make sure to combine the sauce well with the noodles to ensure every bite is flavorful. Toss them well in the pan before serving.
• Using incorrect vinegar – Black vinegar gives a distinct taste; using another type may alter the flavor profile. Stick with black vinegar for authenticity.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow noodles to cool completely before sealing them in a container.

Freezing Shallot Chili Oil Noodles

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month.
• Portion into smaller containers for easy thawing.

Reheating Shallot Chili Oil Noodles

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warm.
• Stovetop – Warm in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Shallot Chili Oil Noodles.

What are Shallot Chili Oil Noodles?

Shallot Chili Oil Noodles are a quick and spicy noodle dish made with shallots, garlic, and various seasonings. They come together in just 15 minutes!

Can I make Shallot Chili Oil Noodles gluten-free?

Yes! You can use gluten-free soy sauce and gluten-free noodles to make this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet.

How can I customize my Shallot Chili Oil Noodles?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for extra nutrients. You can also add protein such as chicken or tofu.

What should I serve with my Shallot Chili Oil Noodles?

These noodles pair well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Shallot Chili Oil Noodles are not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor! This versatile dish allows for plenty of customization based on your preferences. Whether you stick to the recipe or experiment with different ingredients, you’re guaranteed a delightful meal that will impress your taste buds. Give it a try today!