Before diving into the delightful world of sesame noodles, let’s take a moment to think about what to enjoy alongside this flavorful dish. Here are some fantastic options that will elevate your dining experience:
1. Grilled Chicken or Tofu: For added protein, grilled chicken or marinated tofu can make your meal heartier. The smoky flavor pairs perfectly with the nutty notes of the sesame sauce.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds a crunchy texture while providing nutrients. Its slight bitterness complements the sweetness of the sesame sauce beautifully.
3. Asian Cucumber Salad: A light, refreshing cucumber salad offers a crisp contrast. The vinegar-based dressing will balance the richness of the noodles.
These pairings create a complete meal that satisfies without overwhelming.
Have you ever found yourself craving a dish that’s as soothing as it is flavorful? That’s where sesame noodles come in. Imagine a bowl of silky noodles drenched in a rich sesame sauce, topped with crunch and zest.
This dish is more than just food; it’s an experience that transports you straight to your favorite Asian restaurant—or even the streets of a bustling city, where vendors dish out magic in a bowl.
In my kitchen, sesame noodles have become a staple. They are quick to prepare, packed with flavor, and endlessly customizable. Whether I’m whipping them up for lunch or serving them at a gathering, these noodles always impress. If you’re curious about this dish, get ready to discover why it should be in your culinary repertoire!
What are Sesame Noodles?
Sesame noodles, also known as cold sesame noodles, are a popular dish in various Asian cuisines, particularly Chinese. The noodles are typically made from wheat or egg and coated in a delicious sesame sauce, often combined with other ingredients like soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and sometimes a touch of sweetness.
The beautiful thing about sesame noodles is that they can be served warm or cold. This versatility makes them perfect for any occasion. When you take a bite, expect an explosion of flavors: the creaminess of sesame, the kick from garlic, and the zing from ginger all harmoniously blend together.
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Why This Recipe Works
Creating the perfect sesame noodle dish takes a mix of quality ingredients and a few key techniques. Here’s why this recipe truly shines:
1. Balanced Flavors: The combination of creamy peanut butter and the umami of soy sauce creates a sauce that is rich yet balanced. Each ingredient plays a role in flavor harmony.
2. Quality Ingredients Matter: Using fresh noodles over dry ones enhances the texture significantly. Fresh egg noodles provide that delightful chewiness that makes every mouthful enjoyable.
3. Customizable: You can tweak the ingredients to fit your dietary needs. Whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, or just not in the mood for something specific, the recipe adapts like a charm.
4. Quick Preparation: Life can get hectic. This dish comes together in about 20 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy nights when you want something satisfying without much hassle.
Ingredients You’ll Need to Make This Dish
Gathering quality ingredients can transform a good meal into a great one. Here’s what you’ll need:
Main Ingredients:
- 500 g / 1 lb fresh egg noodles
- ¾ cup finely chopped green onions (scallions)
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds, plus extra for garnish
- 2–3 tablespoons crushed roasted peanuts (optional), plus extra for garnish
Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
- 1 ½ tablespoons dark soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon regular soy sauce
- 1 ½ tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
- 2 teaspoons freshly grated ginger root
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons granulated white sugar
- 1 tablespoon Chinese sesame paste or tahini
- 2 teaspoons garlic chili paste (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh cilantro (optional for garnish)
How To Make These Delicious Sesame Noodles
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s roll up our sleeves and get cooking.
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fresh egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions, typically around 4-5 minutes. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. This prevents the noodles from becoming gummy.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
While the noodles are boiling, you can whip up the sauce. In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, dark soy sauce, regular soy sauce, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, sugar, sesame paste or tahini, garlic chili paste, and lime juice. Stir the mixture until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Combine Noodles and Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, toss the rinsed noodles with the sauce. Make sure every noodle gets coated. Feel free to add in the chopped green onions at this stage for extra flavor. Toss again!
Step 4: Garnish
Serve the sesame noodles garnished with toasted sesame seeds and crushed peanuts for that satisfying crunch. I often add a sprinkle of cilantro for fresh notes, but that’s totally optional.
Step 5: Serve
These noodles can be enjoyed warm or cold. If you’re serving them later, consider chilling them in the fridge for about 30 minutes for a refreshing dish.
Tips & Tricks
To perfect your sesame noodle dish, here are some handy tips:
Adjust the Spiciness: If you enjoy a bit more heat, increase the garlic chili paste. For a more mellow dish, use less.
Add Protein: Incorporating grilled chicken, tofu, or shrimp can add protein and make the dish more filling.
Vegetable Additions: Feel free to toss in julienned carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas for added crunch and nutrition.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Noodle Alternatives: If you’re out of egg noodles, soba or udon noodles work well, too.
Nutrition Information
Serving size: About 2 cups
Calories: Approximately 350
Protein: 12 g
Fat: 16 g
Carbohydrates: 45 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sodium: 600 mg
How Do You Store The Leftovers?
To keep your sesame noodles fresh, place them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply toss them in a pan with a splash of water over low heat or enjoy them cold.
What Sides Would Complement Sesame Noodles?
To round out your meal, consider these side dishes:
1. Steamed Dumplings: These little pockets of joy add a burst of flavor and texture. Whether filled with vegetables, chicken, or shrimp, they pair seamlessly with sesame noodles.
2. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup provides a light and flavorful contrast to the richness of the noodle dish. Plus, it’s comforting and healthy.
3. Asian Slaw: A zesty slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing brings crunchy freshness that balances the rich noodles beautifully.
What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients If They Are Not Present?
Running low on something? No worries! Here are some alternatives:
1. Fresh Egg Noodles: If you don’t have fresh egg noodles, use spaghetti or any wheat-based noodles. Udon noodles also work well.
2. Peanut Butter: If you’re out of peanut butter, tahini can serve the purpose, or you may use sunflower seed butter if allergies are a concern.
3. Soy Sauce: Tamari is a great gluten-free option if you need a soy sauce substitute. You could also use coconut aminos for a lower-sodium alternative.
4. Rice Vinegar: In a pinch, apple cider vinegar can substitute rice vinegar. It provides a similar tang, maintaining the dish’s integrity.
Equipment
- Bowls
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 500 g / 1 lb fresh egg noodles
- ¾ cup finely chopped green onions scallions
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds plus extra for garnish
- 2 –3 tablespoons crushed roasted peanuts optional, plus extra for garnish
Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
- 1 ½ tablespoons dark soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon regular soy sauce
- 1 ½ tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
- 2 teaspoons freshly grated ginger root
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 2 teaspoons granulated white sugar
- 1 tablespoon Chinese sesame paste or tahini
- 2 teaspoons garlic chili paste adjust to taste
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh cilantro optional for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fresh egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions, typically around 4-5 minutes. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. This prevents the noodles from becoming gummy.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
- While the noodles are boiling, you can whip up the sauce. In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, dark soy sauce, regular soy sauce, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, sugar, sesame paste or tahini, garlic chili paste, and lime juice. Stir the mixture until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Combine Noodles and Sauce
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the rinsed noodles with the sauce. Make sure every noodle gets coated. Feel free to add in the chopped green onions at this stage for extra flavor. Toss again!
Step 4: Garnish
- Serve the sesame noodles garnished with toasted sesame seeds and crushed peanuts for that satisfying crunch. I often add a sprinkle of cilantro for fresh notes, but that’s totally optional.
Step 5: Serve
- These noodles can be enjoyed warm or cold. If you’re serving them later, consider chilling them in the fridge for about 30 minutes for a refreshing dish.
Notes
- Adjust the Spiciness: If you enjoy a bit more heat, increase the garlic chili paste. For a more mellow dish, use less.
- Add Protein: Incorporating grilled chicken, tofu, or shrimp can add protein and make the dish more filling.
- Vegetable Additions: Feel free to toss in julienned carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas for added crunch and nutrition.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Noodle Alternatives: If you’re out of egg noodles, soba or udon noodles work well, too.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! The recipe is naturally quite adaptable. Just ensure you use maple syrup instead of sugar and opt for a plant-based protein to add on.
2. Can I make sesame noodles in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the noodles and sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge, then combine them when ready to serve.
3. How spicy can I make these noodles?
You have full control over the spice level. Start with a small amount of garlic chili paste, then taste and adjust according to your preference.
4. What are the best noodles for this recipe?
Fresh egg noodles are ideal because of their texture, but you can use any long, thin noodles like soba or rice noodles as alternatives.
5. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Substitute regular soy sauce with tamari, and choose gluten-free noodles like rice noodles or quinoa pasta.
6. Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, and shredded carrots can be added directly to the noodles for added nutrition and crunch.
Conclusion
Sesame noodles are a delightful dish that perfectly combines flavor, texture, and satisfaction. This recipe is not just easy to prepare; it invites creativity and personal touches. Whether you opt for it as a main course or a side, it promises to be a hit in your kitchen.
Dive into this culinary adventure, and let each bite remind you of the simple joy that good food brings. Ready to give it a try? Grab your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!