Thai Chili Hot Oil Noodles Recipe

Noodles: The base of the dish, you can use any type of noodles you prefer, such as rice noodles, egg noodles, or even spaghetti.

Thai chili oil: This spicy oil is infused with chili peppers and adds a significant amount of heat to the dish.

Garlic: Minced garlic adds a fragrant and savory depth to the sauce.

Soy sauce: Provides a salty, umami flavor that enhances the overall taste of the noodles.

Rice vinegar: Adds a subtle tanginess that balances the spiciness of the chili oil.

Sugar: A small amount of sugar helps to balance the flavors and add a hint of sweetness.

Green onions: Chopped green onions are used as a garnish to add a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color.

When sautéing the minced garlic in the thai chili oil, make sure to keep the heat at a medium level to prevent the garlic from burning. Burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste to the dish. Stir constantly and cook just until the garlic becomes fragrant and lightly golden, which should take about 30 seconds to a minute. This will ensure that the garlic infuses the oil with its rich flavor without overpowering the dish.

• any type noodles - Substitute with zucchini noodles: For a low-carb option, zucchini noodles provide a similar texture and can absorb the flavors well.

• thai chili oil - Substitute with sriracha sauce: Sriracha sauce offers a similar heat and flavor profile, though it is slightly thicker.

• minced garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used in a pinch, though it lacks the fresh, pungent flavor of minced garlic.

• soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative that provides a similar umami flavor.

• rice vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar has a similar acidity and can be used to achieve a comparable tangy flavor.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds sweetness and a slight floral note, though it is more viscous than sugar.

• chopped green onions - Substitute with chives: Chives offer a similar mild onion flavor and can be used as a garnish.

• Allow the noodles to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the noodles soggy.
• Transfer the noodles to an airtight container. If you have multiple servings, consider using individual containers for easy reheating.
• Store the container in the refrigerator. The noodles will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, place the cooled noodles in a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.
• When ready to eat, thaw the noodles in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Reheat the noodles in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed. Alternatively, microwave in a microwave-safe dish, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
• Garnish with fresh green onions before serving to revive the dish's vibrant flavors.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add a splash of water or broth to the pan to create steam.
  3. Add the leftover noodles and stir frequently to ensure even heating.
  4. Cook for about 3-5 minutes until the noodles are heated through.
  5. If needed, add a bit more thai chili oil to refresh the flavors.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the leftover noodles in a microwave-safe dish.
  2. Add a tablespoon of water or broth to keep the noodles from drying out.
  3. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap.
  4. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  5. Check if the noodles are heated through; if not, continue microwaving in 30-second intervals.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the leftover noodles in an oven-safe dish.
  3. Add a splash of water or broth to keep them moist.
  4. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
  5. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the noodles are heated through.

• Steaming Method:

  1. Set up a steamer basket over boiling water.
  2. Place the leftover noodles in the steamer basket.
  3. Cover and steam for about 5-7 minutes, or until the noodles are heated through.
  4. Toss the noodles gently to ensure even heating.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the leftover noodles in an air fryer-safe dish.
  3. Add a small amount of water or broth to keep them from drying out.
  4. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating.

• Pot: Used to cook the noodles according to package instructions.

• Strainer: Used to drain the cooked noodles.

• Pan: Used to heat the thai chili oil and sauté the garlic.

• Spatula: Used to stir the ingredients in the pan and toss the noodles in the sauce.

• Knife: Used to mince the garlic and chop the green onions.

• Cutting board: Used as a surface for mincing garlic and chopping green onions.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the thai chili oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar.

• Serving bowl: Used to serve the finished noodles.

Prep ingredients in advance: Mince the garlic and chop the green onions ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.

Use pre-cooked noodles: Opt for pre-cooked or quick-cooking noodles to save boiling time.

Batch make chili oil: Prepare a large batch of thai chili oil and store it for future use.

Combine sauces: Mix the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar in a bowl before cooking to save time during the sautéing step.

Cook in one pan: Use the same pan to sauté the garlic and mix the noodles to reduce cleanup time.