Sesame butter noodles are a delicious and comforting dish that can be whipped up in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a quick meal. This recipe combines the nutty richness of sesame with the creamy goodness of butter, creating a delectable sauce that coats the noodles beautifully. Let’s dive into the steps to make this easy and satisfying dish.
Ingredients
To make sesame butter noodles, you will need the following ingredients:
- 12 ounces of your favorite noodles (spaghetti, udon, or soba work well)
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons of sesame oil
- 3 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons of sesame paste or tahini
- 1 tablespoon of honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon of chili oil (optional, for a spicy kick)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon of grated ginger
- 1/4 cup of chopped scallions
- 1/4 cup of toasted sesame seeds
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Start by cooking the noodles according to the package instructions. Use a large pot of salted boiling water to ensure the noodles cook evenly and don’t stick together. Once the noodles are al dente, drain them and set them aside. You can rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent them from sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
While the noodles are cooking, you can prepare the sesame butter sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once the butter is melted, add the sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté for about a minute until the garlic and ginger are fragrant but not browned.
Next, stir in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame paste or tahini, and honey or maple syrup. If you like a bit of heat, add the chili oil at this stage. Whisk the ingredients together until you have a smooth and well-combined sauce. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 3: Combine Noodles and Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles and the sesame butter sauce. Toss the noodles thoroughly to ensure they are evenly coated with the sauce. The warm noodles will help the sauce adhere nicely, creating a silky and flavorful coating.
Step 4: Add Toppings
To add some texture and freshness to your sesame butter noodles, mix in the chopped scallions and toasted sesame seeds. These ingredients add a lovely crunch and a burst of flavor that complements the creamy sauce. If you enjoy cilantro, sprinkle some freshly chopped cilantro on top as a garnish.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Your shortcut sesame butter noodles are now ready to be served! Transfer the noodles to serving bowls and enjoy them while they’re warm. This dish pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple cucumber salad for a complete meal.
Tips and Variations
- Protein Addition: For a more substantial meal, you can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu to the noodles. Simply stir in your protein of choice during Step 3.
- Vegetable Boost: Enhance the nutritional value of this dish by adding vegetables like julienned carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas. Sauté the vegetables lightly and mix them into the noodles along with the sauce.
- Spice Level: Adjust the spice level to your preference by increasing or decreasing the amount of chili oil. You can also add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
- Noodle Choices: Experiment with different types of noodles such as soba, udon, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
Conclusion
Sesame butter noodles are a quick and easy dish that packs a punch of flavor with minimal effort. By following these simple steps, you can create a delicious meal that is sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re preparing a quick lunch or a cozy dinner, this recipe is a fantastic option that you can customize to suit your taste. Enjoy the nutty, creamy goodness of sesame butter noodles anytime you need a comforting and delicious meal.