If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with bold flavors and comforting textures, this Garlic Sesame Noodles Recipe is going to become your new go-to. It’s a harmonious blend of nutty sesame, savory garlic, and just the right amount of tangy and sweet notes that come together in perfectly tender brown rice noodles. Simple to whip up, satisfying to eat, and utterly irresistible, this recipe offers a delightful meal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends. Once you try it, you’ll wonder how something so easy can taste so amazing!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might sound basic, but each plays a crucial role in building the layers of flavor and texture in this dish. From the chewy brown rice noodles to the rich sesame oil and punchy garlic, everything combines to make the noodles sing.
- 12 ounces brown rice noodles: These noodles are wonderfully chewy and offer a wholesome base that soaks up all the luscious sauce.
- 6 cloves garlic: Fresh garlic is essential here for that unmistakable aromatic kick.
- 1/4-1/3 cup low sodium soy sauce or tamari: Adds that salty, umami depth without overpowering the dish.
- 2 tablespoons veggie broth: Provides a subtle savory background and helps balance the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil: This ingredient is the heart of the flavor—deeply nutty with a warm aroma that makes every bite special.
- 2 tablespoons tahini: Creamy and rich, tahini adds a wonderful texture and enhances the sesame notes.
- Optional garnishes like crushed peanuts and scallions: These add crunchy texture and fresh, vibrant bursts of flavor on top.
How to Make Garlic Sesame Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Start by boiling your brown rice noodles in a large pot following the package instructions until tender but still slightly chewy. This perfect texture will soak up the sauce beautifully without falling apart.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic
While the noodles cook, mince the garlic as finely as you can. Using a garlic press or a sharp knife works great here. The smaller the pieces, the more evenly the garlic will cook and flavor your dish.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
Heat a bit of oil in a pan and gently sauté the minced garlic until it turns a lovely golden brown. This step releases its natural sweetness and adds that irresistible toasted aroma.
Step 4: Whisk Together the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce (or tamari), veggie broth, toasted sesame oil, tahini, and any other flavor enhancers you like. This creates a silky, flavorful sauce that’s the soul of your noodles.
Step 5: Simmer the Sauce with Garlic
Pour the sauce you’ve prepared into the pan with your golden garlic. Let it gently simmer for 2 to 3 minutes so the flavors meld and the sauce thickens just enough to cling deliciously to every noodle.
Step 6: Combine Noodles and Sauce
Drain your cooked noodles and add them directly into the pan with your sauce. Toss everything well to ensure each strand is generously coated with that rich, garlicky sesame goodness.
Step 7: Serve Immediately
These noodles are best enjoyed fresh and warm. Garnish with crushed peanuts or scintillating scallions to add texture and a pop of color. Then dig in and enjoy your masterpiece!
How to Serve Garlic Sesame Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes is the perfect final touch. Crushed peanuts provide a delightful crunch and a contrasting savory flavor, while scallions bring bright freshness and a subtle bite. Feel free to sprinkle sesame seeds or a drizzle of chili oil if you love a bit of heat.
Side Dishes
Garlic Sesame Noodles pair beautifully with simple sides like steamed or roasted vegetables, such as broccoli or snap peas. For a heartier meal, toss in some grilled tofu or chicken on the side to round things out.
Creative Ways to Present
You can serve these noodles hot as a main dish or chill them for a refreshing cold noodle salad. Layer them in a glass jar for a picnic-friendly lunch or use them as a bed under a protein for an impressive plated dinner. The possibilities are endless!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Garlic Sesame Noodles can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually get even better after sitting, but the noodles may soak up more sauce, so be sure to stir before reheating.
Freezing
Freezing this dish isn’t ideal as the texture of the noodles might change and become mushy when thawed. It’s better to enjoy this recipe fresh or keep leftovers refrigerated only.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the noodles gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or veggie broth to loosen the sauce if it’s too thick. Avoid microwaving if possible to maintain the best texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use other noodles besides brown rice noodles?
Absolutely! While brown rice noodles add a nice chew and wholesome flavor, you can substitute with soba noodles, spaghetti, or even rice vermicelli depending on your preference or what you have on hand.
Is tahini necessary in this dish?
Tahini brings a creamy, nutty richness that complements the sesame oil wonderfully, but if you don’t have it, you can leave it out or substitute with a mild nut butter like cashew butter for a slightly different twist.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, this Garlic Sesame Noodles Recipe is naturally vegan if you use vegetable broth and tamari or a vegan soy sauce. You can also customize toppings and sides to keep it plant-based and delicious.
How spicy is the recipe?
The recipe as written is mild, focusing on garlic and sesame flavors. You can easily adjust the heat by adding sriracha, chili flakes, or other hot sauces to suit your taste.
What can I add to make this a full meal?
Adding some protein such as tofu, tempeh, or cooked chicken transforms this dish into a hearty meal. Stir in fresh veggies or a side salad for balance and nutrition.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Garlic Sesame Noodles Recipe enough if you want something quick, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. It’s a dish that feels comforting and special without spending hours in the kitchen. So grab those simple ingredients, dive in, and enjoy noodles that will brighten any mealtime with warmth and deliciousness!
Print
Garlic Sesame Noodles Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Garlic Sesame Noodles recipe features tender brown rice noodles tossed in a savory and tangy sauce made with garlic, sesame oil, tahini, and low sodium soy sauce. Perfect for a quick and flavorful meal, this dish is garnished with optional crushed peanuts and scallions to add texture and freshness.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 ounces brown rice noodles
- 6 cloves garlic
- 1/4 to 1/3 cup low sodium soy sauce or tamari
- 2 tablespoons vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons tahini
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon sriracha
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
Optional Garnishes
- Crushed peanuts
- Chopped scallions
Instructions
- Cook the Noodles: Boil the brown rice noodles in a large pot according to package instructions until tender, then drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Garlic: Mince the garlic cloves finely using a knife or garlic press to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.
- Sauté the Garlic: In a pan over medium heat, sauté the minced garlic in toasted sesame oil until it becomes golden brown and aromatic, being careful not to burn it.
- Make the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce or tamari, vegetable broth, rice vinegar, honey or maple syrup, tahini, sriracha, and ground ginger until smooth and well combined.
- Simmer the Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce into the pan with the sautéed garlic, simmering for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and flavors meld.
- Toss Noodles in Sauce: Add the drained noodles to the pan, tossing well to evenly coat each strand with the garlic sesame sauce.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the noodles immediately, garnished with crushed peanuts and chopped scallions if desired for added crunch and freshness.
Notes
- Use low sodium soy sauce or tamari to control salt content and keep flavors balanced.
- Adjust sriracha to taste for desired spiciness or omit for a milder dish.
- Brown rice noodles offer a gluten-free alternative to traditional wheat noodles.
- For a vegan version, use maple syrup instead of honey.
- To toast peanuts and enhance flavor, lightly toast them in a dry pan before garnishing.
