Korean Garlic Noodles are a tasty dish full of flavor! With garlic, soy sauce, and a hint of spice, these noodles are super easy to make and perfect for any meal.
The best part? They are so good, you might end up eating them straight from the pan! I know I do! 😂 They’re quick to whip up, and they pair perfectly with your favorite protein.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Noodles: You can use ramen noodles for the authentic feel, but spaghetti works just as well. If you’re gluten-free, rice noodles are a great option!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is the star here! If fresh isn’t available, garlic powder can work, but I always prefer the strong flavor of fresh garlic. A similar effect can be achieved using minced garlic from a jar.
Gochujang: This Korean chili paste adds a spicy kick and depth. If you don’t have it, you can substitute Sriracha or red pepper flakes, just be careful with the amount, as they are spicier!
Kale or Spinach: Both greens add nutrients and color. If you can’t find them, try bok choy or even shredded cabbage for a different twist.
Oyster Sauce: The sauce adds a rich umami flavor. If you’re vegetarian, look for mushroom-based oyster sauce or soy sauce as a substitute.
How Do You Sauté Garlic without Burning It?
Sautéing garlic is all about timing and temperature! Garlic cooks quickly, so it’s important to keep an eye on it. Here’s how:
- Heat your oil over medium heat. Avoid high heat to prevent burning.
- Once the oil is hot, add your minced garlic. Stir frequently to avoid sticking.
- Cook for only 1-2 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s fragrant.
- If it starts to turn brown, it’s cooked too long; remove it from the heat immediately.
Keeping garlic on medium heat and stirring often will give you that perfect golden color without bitterness!
How to Make Korean Garlic Noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Noodles:
- 8 oz (225g) noodles (such as ramen or spaghetti)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean red chili paste) – optional for heat
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
For the Vegetables:
- 1 cup kale or spinach, chopped
- 1 scallion, sliced (for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
For Topping:
- 2 eggs (optional, for topping)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes of prep and cooking time. It’s quick and simple, so you can whip it up any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Noodles:
Start by cooking your noodles according to the package instructions until they’re al dente. Once they are done, drain the noodles and set them aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until it’s fragrant but not browned. We want that lovely garlic aroma!
3. Make the Sauce:
Now, stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, gochujang (if you’re feeling spicy), brown sugar, and sesame oil. Cook this mixture for another minute to let all the flavors meld together.
4. Add Noodles and Greens:
Next, toss the cooked noodles and chopped kale or spinach into the skillet. Mix everything together well, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the greens are softened and the noodles are nicely coated with the sauce.
5. Season and Prepare for Topping:
Season your noodle dish with salt and pepper to taste. Meanwhile, in a separate pan, fry the eggs sunny-side up or to your preference.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s time to serve your delicious Korean Garlic Noodles! Place the noodles in bowls, top each with a fried egg, and garnish with sliced scallions and toasted sesame seeds. Dig in!
This savory noodle dish offers a tasty balance of sweet, salty, and umami flavors, made even better with the richness of the fried egg on top. Enjoy your culinary adventure! 🍜
Can I Use Different Types of Noodles?
Absolutely! While ramen or spaghetti work great, you can also use rice noodles or udon for a different texture. Just make sure to adjust cooking times as needed!
Is It Possible to Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the oyster sauce. Instead, use a mushroom-based sauce or just stick with soy sauce for flavor. The rest of the ingredients are vegetarian-friendly!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or warm them gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to help revive the noodles.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Definitely! If you love heat, you can add more gochujang or toss in some red pepper flakes to taste. Start small and adjust to your preference—it’s easy to make it as spicy as you like!