Vietnamese Garlic Noodles are a tasty treat that packs a punch of flavor! Soft noodles tossed in a savory garlic sauce make this dish irresistible, with a touch of sweetness.
Whenever I make these noodles, I can’t help but twirl them on my fork like a pro! 🍜 They’re great as a side or a light meal, and super quick to whip up. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Noodles: Spaghetti gives a nice bite to the dish, but you can swap it for egg noodles for a more authentic touch. If gluten is a concern, gluten-free pasta works too!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential for that bold flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute, but I recommend fresh for the best taste.
Oyster Sauce: This adds a rich umami flavor. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, look for mushroom sauce as a great alternative that still brings depth.
Fish Sauce: It’s key in Vietnamese cooking. If you prefer, use soy sauce instead or a vegan fish sauce made from seaweed.
Chili Flakes: Adjust the heat level to your liking; go milder or skip them if you want a more gentle flavor. I often add a touch more for an extra kick!
How Do You Sauté Garlic Perfectly Without Burning It?
Sautéing garlic can feel tricky, but it’s easy once you know the tips. Properly sautéed garlic gives your noodles that amazing fragrance and flavor, while burnt garlic can turn bitter.
- Make sure to keep your heat medium; too high can quickly lead to burnt garlic.
- Stir the garlic consistently while it cooks. This will help it cook evenly and prevent burning.
- Watch the color—when it turns golden, you’re in the sweet spot! Take it off the heat just before it gets too dark.
How to Make Vietnamese Garlic Noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Noodles:
- 8 oz spaghetti or egg noodles
For The Sauce:
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 6 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
For Garnish:
- 2 scallions, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- Optional: cooked shrimp or grilled pork slices for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Vietnamese Garlic Noodles recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 10 minutes to cook. You’ll have a tasty meal ready in just 20 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Noodles:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add in your spaghetti or egg noodles and cook them according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Once they’re done, drain the noodles and set them aside while you prepare the sauce.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and the butter over medium heat until the butter is melted and lightly bubbling. This will be the base for your flavorful sauce.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté it for about 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently until it becomes fragrant and slightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter if overcooked.
4. Add the Sauces:
Lower the heat slightly and carefully stir in the oyster sauce, soy sauce, fish sauce, sugar, black pepper, and chili flakes if you’re using them. Allow the sauce to simmer for about one minute to let all the wonderful flavors meld together.
5. Combine Everything:
Add the drained noodles to the skillet and toss them well in the garlic sauce so they’re evenly coated. Make sure that every noodle is covered in that tasty sauce!
6. Add Fresh Ingredients:
Stir in half of the sliced scallions and all of the chopped cilantro, setting aside the remaining scallions and cilantro for the garnish. Mix them into the noodles for a fresh taste.
7. Serve it Up:
Transfer the noodles onto serving plates. Top with the reserved scallions and cilantro. If you’d like, you can also add some cooked shrimp or grilled pork slices as a delicious topping!
8. Enjoy Your Dish:
Serve your Vietnamese Garlic Noodles immediately and enjoy the delightful combination of savory, salty, and slightly spicy flavors. Perfect for a quick meal any time!
Can I Use Different Types of Noodles?
Absolutely! While this recipe features spaghetti or egg noodles, you can also use rice noodles for a gluten-free option or traditional Vietnamese bánh phở for a more authentic touch.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you love heat, feel free to add more chili flakes or even some sliced fresh chili peppers. Sriracha sauce also works great as a spicy garnish when serving!
Can I Prep This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can cook the noodles and prepare the sauce in advance, then store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat them in a skillet over low heat and combine.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to keep them moist.
