Here’s a versatile, flavorful recipe for Asian Noodles—you can make it vegetarian or add protein like chicken, beef, or tofu:
Ingredients
For the Noodles:
- 8 oz noodles (lo mein, rice noodles, or spaghetti)
- 1–2 tsp sesame oil (for tossing after cooking)
Vegetables (Choose Your Favorites):
- 1 cup bell peppers, thinly sliced
- 1 cup carrots, julienned
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- ½ cup snow peas or snap peas
- 2–3 green onions, sliced
Sauce:
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (or hoisin sauce for vegetarian)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ tsp grated ginger (optional)
- ½ tsp chili flakes (optional for heat)
Protein (Optional):
- 1 cup cooked chicken, beef, shrimp, or tofu
Instructions
- Cook the Noodles:
- Boil noodles according to package instructions.
- Drain, toss with a little sesame oil, and set aside.
- Cook the Protein (if using):
- In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tbsp oil over medium-high heat.
- Cook protein until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Stir-Fry Vegetables:
- In the same pan, add another 1 tbsp oil if needed.
- Add harder vegetables first (carrots, broccoli) and stir-fry 3–4 minutes.
- Add softer vegetables (peppers, peas) and cook another 2–3 minutes.
- Make the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster/hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and chili flakes.
- Combine:
- Add noodles and protein back into the pan.
- Pour sauce over and toss everything to coat.
- Cook 1–2 minutes until heated through and slightly caramelized.
- Serve:
- Garnish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, or chopped cilantro.
- Serve hot as a main dish or side.
💡 Tips:
- Use a wok if possible for high-heat, fast cooking.
- Adjust sweetness or saltiness by tweaking honey and soy sauce.
- Swap in peanut butter or Sriracha for a spicy peanut noodle variation.
I can also give a quick 10-minute Asian noodle stir-fry version that’s perfect for busy weeknights and still packed with flavor.
Do you want me to provide that version?