Description
This Easy Kimchi Noodles recipe offers a flavorful and spicy Korean-inspired dish featuring tender ramen or udon noodles tossed with tangy kimchi, savory gochujang, and a blend of aromatic seasonings. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, it can be customized with optional protein toppings like fried egg or tofu, making it both versatile and satisfying.
Ingredients
Scale
Noodles and Base
- 8 oz ramen or udon noodles
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Kimchi Sauce
- 1 cup chopped kimchi with juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
Toppings
- 1 green onion, sliced
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
- Optional: fried egg or tofu for topping
Instructions
- Cook Noodles: Prepare the ramen or udon noodles according to the package directions. Once cooked, drain the noodles thoroughly and set them aside to cool slightly.
- Sauté Garlic: Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Cook Kimchi: Stir in the chopped kimchi along with its juices into the skillet. Cook this mixture for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the kimchi to soften slightly.
- Add Seasonings: Mix in the gochujang, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar. Stir well to combine all ingredients, then let the sauce simmer for an additional 2 minutes to develop depth of flavor.
- Toss Noodles: Add the drained noodles back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything thoroughly until the noodles are evenly coated and heated through.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish the noodles with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds. Top with a fried egg or tofu if desired. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- You can adjust the spice level by using more or less gochujang according to your taste preference.
- Add stir-fried vegetables or proteins like chicken or shrimp to make the meal heartier.
- Udon noodles provide a chewier texture, while ramen noodles are softer and cook quicker, so choose based on your texture preference.
- Ensure to use vegetarian kimchi if adhering to a vegetarian diet.
