If you’re craving something bursting with bold flavors that come together in a flash, this Aromatic Garlic Chilli Noodles Recipe is an absolute winner. It’s that perfect blend of spicy, savory, and garlicky goodness that makes every bite a mouthwatering experience. Whether you’re a busy weeknight cook or just want a satisfying meal with a hint of heat and a ton of aroma, these noodles deliver on all fronts. The texture from crisp vegetables combined with the rich sauce makes this dish impossible to resist, and it’s ready in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the secret to making this dish sing. Each item is simple and pantry-friendly but plays a crucial part in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color in your noodles.
- 200 grams dried wheat noodles: The base that soaks up all the delicious sauce and stays satisfyingly chewy.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: A neutral oil perfect for stir-frying and ensuring nothing sticks or burns.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Adds a fragrant nuttiness that elevates the whole dish.
- 6 cloves garlic finely minced: The star that packs a punch of aromatic flavor in every bite.
- 1 to 2 tablespoons red chilli paste or chilli sauce: Adjust to your spice liking to give those noodles a lively kick.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Brings that essential umami depth and saltiness.
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce: Adds a subtle sweetness and richness for a well-rounded sauce.
- 1 teaspoon sugar: Balances out the heat and salt with a touch of sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons spring onions finely chopped: For a fresh, green contrast and mild onion flavor.
- 1 small onion thinly sliced: Adds texture and a gentle sweetness when stir-fried.
- 1 small carrot julienned: Brings a pop of color and natural crunch that complements the noodles.
- 1 small bell pepper thinly sliced: Offers sweetness and vibrant color to brighten up the dish.
- 1 teaspoon chilli flakes (optional): Sprinkle in if you want an extra layer of spice.
- Salt to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste: Adds warmth and a subtle sharpness that wakes up the palate.
How to Make Aromatic Garlic Chilli Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Noodles
Start by cooking your dried wheat noodles according to the package instructions until they are just tender, or al dente. This ensures they hold their shape and texture well when tossed in the sauce. Once done, drain them carefully and set aside while you make the sauce and stir-fry the veggies.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Vegetables
Heat the vegetable oil and sesame oil together in a large pan or wok over medium heat. The combo of these oils creates a perfect base for flavor without overpowering the garlicky dimension. Add the finely minced garlic and stir constantly, ensuring it doesn’t burn but turns wonderfully fragrant. Then toss in the sliced onion, carrot, and bell pepper. Stir-fry them for 2 to 3 minutes until they are slightly tender but still crisp, which keeps a fresh bite in your noodles.
Step 3: Create the Saucy Magic
Next, stir in your red chilli paste (adjust the amount depending on how spicy you like it), soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and chilli flakes if using. Mixing these ingredients well lets the sauce become glossy and coats each vegetable perfectly. This is where the layers of flavor begin to shine, balancing spicy, salty, sweet, and umami notes harmoniously.
Step 4: Toss the Noodles in the Sauce
Add your cooked noodles back into the pan and toss everything thoroughly so that each noodle strand is evenly coated by the sauce and veggies. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld nicely together. This final step guarantees that every mouthful bursts with that signature garlicky, chilli-laced taste.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove the noodles from heat and sprinkle the chopped spring onions over the top. These add the perfect fresh crunch and subtle sharpness to finish off your Aromatic Garlic Chilli Noodles Recipe.
How to Serve Aromatic Garlic Chilli Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
To add exciting layers, consider garnishing your noodles with toasted sesame seeds, extra fresh chopped spring onions, or a wedge of lime for a zesty touch. These toppings add texture and brightness that elevate the dish visually and flavor-wise.
Side Dishes
This noodle dish pairs wonderfully with light Asian-inspired sides like steamed dumplings, fresh cucumber salad, or a bowl of miso soup. These companions keep the meal balanced and satisfying without overwhelming the bold flavors of the noodles.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve the noodles in individual bowls with a swirl of sauce and scattered fresh herbs like cilantro or Thai basil on top. Alternatively, plating with a colorful medley of extra vegetables or sliced tofu can add an eye-catching flair and extra nutrition.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, place leftover Aromatic Garlic Chilli Noodles into an airtight container and store them in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 days, making for a quick and delicious next-day lunch or dinner.
Freezing
While you can freeze these noodles, keep in mind that the texture of the vegetables may change after thawing. Pack the noodles tightly in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat the noodles gently in a pan over medium-low heat with a splash of water or sesame oil to prevent drying out. Stir occasionally until warmed through. Microwaving works fine too, but stirring halfway helps maintain an even temperature.
FAQs
Can I use other types of noodles for this recipe?
Absolutely! While wheat noodles work beautifully here, you can substitute with rice noodles, egg noodles, or even soba depending on your preference. Just adjust the cooking time according to the noodle type.
How spicy is the Aromatic Garlic Chilli Noodles Recipe?
The heat level can easily be adjusted. Use less chilli paste for a milder dish or add more for extra spice. The optional chilli flakes are great for adding a final fiery touch if you love heat.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, by swapping the oyster sauce for a vegetarian mushroom sauce or a vegan oyster sauce alternative, this dish becomes fully plant-based without sacrificing flavor.
What vegetables can I add or substitute?
Feel free to mix it up with mushrooms, cabbage, snap peas, or tofu for extra texture and nutrition. The recipe is very flexible, so use whatever you have on hand.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Definitely! The noodles keep well and reheat nicely, making this Aromatic Garlic Chilli Noodles Recipe a perfect choice for preparing meals ahead of a busy week.
Final Thoughts
This Aromatic Garlic Chilli Noodles Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate — easy to make, packed with flavor, and utterly satisfying. I encourage you to try it and make it your own by adjusting the spice and veggies to match your cravings. Once you’ve had this mouthwatering combination of garlic, chili, and fresh ingredients, it will quickly become a favorite you reach for time and again.
Print
Aromatic Garlic Chilli Noodles Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Aromatic Garlic Chilli Noodles is a flavorful and spicy Asian-inspired dish combining tender wheat noodles with a savory garlic-chilli sauce, stir-fried vegetables, and aromatic seasonings. Perfect for a quick, satisfying vegetarian main course that balances heat and umami with fresh textures.
Ingredients
Noodles and Oils
- 200 grams dried wheat noodles
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Sauce and Seasonings
- 6 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 to 2 tablespoons red chilli paste or chilli sauce, adjusted to taste
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon chilli flakes (optional)
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Vegetables and Garnish
- 2 tablespoons spring onions, finely chopped
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1 small carrot, julienned
- 1 small bell pepper, thinly sliced
Instructions
- Cook the noodles: Boil the dried wheat noodles according to the package instructions until they are just tender. Once cooked, drain the noodles thoroughly and set them aside to prevent overcooking.
- Heat oils and sauté garlic: In a large pan or wok, heat the vegetable oil and sesame oil over medium heat. Add the finely minced garlic and stir constantly to sauté until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden, being careful not to burn it.
- Cook the vegetables: Add the thinly sliced onion, julienned carrot, and thinly sliced bell pepper to the pan. Stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender but still maintain a crisp texture.
- Add sauces and seasonings: Stir in the red chilli paste or chilli sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and optional chilli flakes. Mix well to create a glossy and flavorful sauce coating the vegetables.
- Toss noodles with sauce: Add the cooked noodles to the pan and toss thoroughly to ensure the noodles are evenly coated with the aromatic sauce and combined with the vegetables.
- Final seasoning and heat through: Season the noodles with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to taste. Continue to cook and toss the noodles for another 1 to 2 minutes until heated through.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the pan from heat and sprinkle the dish with finely chopped spring onions. Serve hot for a delicious, spicy, and aromatic noodle meal.
Notes
- For extra heat, add fresh chopped green chillies or increase the chilli paste amount.
- You can include mushrooms, cabbage, or tofu to add more texture and protein to the dish.
- Use gluten-free noodles for a gluten-free version.
- Adjust the sugar level to balance the chili heat according to preference.
