Name: Sesame Garlic Ramen Noodles
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 2 3-ounce packages instant ramen noodles, seasoning packet discarded; 1 tablespoon butter; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 3 1/2 tablespoons garlic, minced; 3 1/2 tablespoons soy sauce; 3 tablespoons brown sugar; 3 teaspoons shallot ginger chili oil; 3 tablespoons green onion, chopped; 1 teaspoon roasted sesame seeds; 2 tablespoons ramen water, reserved

why make this recipe

Sesame Garlic Ramen Noodles are quick, easy, and packed with flavor. They bring together the rich taste of garlic, the nuttiness of sesame oil, and a hint of sweetness from brown sugar. This recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a late-night snack. Plus, it uses simple ingredients you likely already have at home.

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how to make Sesame Garlic Ramen Noodles

Ingredients:

2 3-ounce packages instant ramen noodles, seasoning packet discarded
1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon sesame oil
3 1/2 tablespoons garlic, minced
3 1/2 tablespoons soy sauce
3 tablespoons brown sugar
3 teaspoons shallot ginger chili oil
3 tablespoons green onion, chopped
1 teaspoon roasted sesame seeds
2 tablespoons ramen water, reserved

Directions:

Cook the ramen noodles in boiling water according to package instructions. One minute before the noodles are al dente, reserve 2 tablespoons of the ramen water.
Drain the remaining water and set the noodles aside.
In a skillet over medium-high heat, add the butter and sesame oil. When the butter melts, add the minced garlic and cook for 2 minutes. Make sure the garlic does not brown.
Remove the skillet from heat and add the reserved ramen water, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
Place the skillet back on the burner. Add the cooked ramen and cook on medium heat for 1 minute.
Stir in the shallot ginger chili oil, followed by the chopped scallions and roasted sesame seeds.
Top with extra scallions and sesame seeds if you wish. Enjoy immediately!

how to serve Sesame Garlic Ramen Noodles

Serve the Sesame Garlic Ramen Noodles warm in a bowl. You can add extra toppings like sliced chili peppers, a fried egg, or additional scallions for garnish. This dish pairs well with a light salad or steamed vegetables.

how to store Sesame Garlic Ramen Noodles

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheating in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water will help restore some moisture.

tips to make Sesame Garlic Ramen Noodles

For added protein, consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu to the dish.
Adjust the spice level by adding more or less shallot ginger chili oil.
Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch.

variation

You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables. Sautéed mushrooms, bok choy, or spinach make excellent additions. If you like a bit of crunch, add some chopped peanuts or cashews on top.

FAQs

1. Can I use any type of noodles for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other types of noodles, but cooking times may vary. Instant ramen is quick and gives a specific texture that works well with the sauce.

2. Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as long as you check that your instant ramen does not contain any meat-based seasonings.

3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free ramen noodles and ensure that the soy sauce is gluten-free or swap it for tamari.

4. How spicy is this dish?
The level of spice depends on the amount of shallot ginger chili oil you use. Feel free to adjust it to your taste.