Sesame Noodles Recipe

Noodles: The base of the dish, you can use spaghetti or any other type of noodles you prefer.

Sesame oil: Adds a rich, nutty flavor and aroma to the dish.

Soy sauce: Provides a salty and umami taste, balancing the sweetness of the honey.

Rice vinegar: Adds a mild tanginess to the sauce.

Honey: Sweetens the sauce, balancing the saltiness of the soy sauce.

Garlic: Adds a pungent and aromatic flavor.

Ginger: Provides a warm, spicy, and slightly sweet flavor.

Toasted sesame seeds: Adds a crunchy texture and enhances the sesame flavor.

Scallions: Also known as green onions, they add a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color.

When preparing the noodles, ensure they are cooked al dente to maintain a pleasant texture when mixed with the sauce. After draining, rinse the noodles under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent them from becoming mushy. This also helps to remove excess starch, which can make the noodles stick together.

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

• sesame oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil has a different flavor profile but can provide a similar richness to the dish.

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

• rice vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar provides a similar tangy flavor and acidity.

• honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup offers a similar sweetness and can be used in the same quantity.

• garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a milder, sweeter flavor that complements the dish well.

• ginger - Substitute with ground ginger: Ground ginger can be used in smaller quantities to provide a similar spicy warmth.

• toasted sesame seeds - Substitute with chopped peanuts: Chopped peanuts add a similar crunch and nutty flavor.

• scallions - 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 cooled sesame noodles to an airtight container. This helps maintain freshness and prevents the noodles from absorbing other odors in the fridge.
• Store the container in the refrigerator. The sesame noodles can be kept for up to 4 days.
• For freezing, portion the noodles into individual servings. This makes it easier to thaw only what you need.
• Place each portion into a freezer-safe bag or container. Squeeze out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Label the bags or containers with the date. This helps you keep track of how long the noodles have been stored.
• When ready to eat, thaw the noodles in the refrigerator overnight. This ensures even thawing and maintains the texture.
• Reheat the noodles in a microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of soy sauce or sesame oil to refresh the flavors.
• Garnish with fresh scallions and toasted sesame seeds before serving to enhance the taste and presentation.

• Microwave Method:

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

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet or wok over medium heat.
  2. Add a small amount of sesame oil or vegetable oil to the pan.
  3. Add the leftover sesame noodles to the skillet.
  4. Stir-fry for 3-5 minutes, tossing frequently to ensure even heating.
  5. If the noodles seem dry, add a splash of soy sauce or water.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the leftover sesame noodles in an oven-safe dish.
  3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent the noodles from drying out.
  4. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the noodles are heated through.
  5. Stir halfway through the reheating process for even warming.

• Steamer Method:

  1. Set up your steamer basket over a pot of boiling water.
  2. Place the leftover sesame noodles in a heatproof dish that fits inside the steamer basket.
  3. Cover and steam for 5-7 minutes, or until the noodles are heated through.
  4. Stir the noodles halfway through to ensure even heating.

• Hot Water Bath Method:

  1. Place the leftover sesame noodles in a heatproof resealable bag.
  2. Bring a pot of water to a gentle simmer.
  3. Submerge the bag in the simmering water for 5-10 minutes.
  4. Carefully remove the bag and check if the noodles are heated through.

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

• Colander: Essential for draining the cooked noodles.

• Small bowl: Needed to whisk together the sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, garlic, and ginger.

• Whisk: Used to combine the sauce ingredients thoroughly.

• Knife: Necessary for mincing the garlic and slicing the scallions.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping and slicing ingredients.

• Grater: Used to grate the ginger.

• Serving bowl: Ideal for mixing the noodles with the sauce and for serving the final dish.

• Tongs: Helpful for tossing the noodles with the sauce to ensure even coating.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey accurately.

• Measuring cup: Needed to measure the soy sauce.

Pre-cook the noodles: Cook the noodles in advance and store them in the fridge. This way, you can quickly toss them with the sauce when needed.

Use pre-minced garlic and ginger: Save time by using store-bought pre-minced garlic and ginger instead of mincing them yourself.

Make the sauce ahead: Prepare the sauce in a jar and store it in the fridge. Just shake and pour when ready to use.

Toast sesame seeds in bulk: Toast a large batch of sesame seeds and store them in an airtight container for future use.

Chop scallions in advance: Slice the scallions ahead of time and keep them in the fridge for quick garnishing.