Fried Noodles with Seaweed is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that brings together the satisfying crunch of stir-fried noodles with the umami of seaweed. This dish is simple, but the seaweed adds an extra depth of flavor, and it works great as a light lunch or a side dish. Here’s a quick recipe for you!
Fried Noodles with Seaweed Recipe
Ingredients:
- 200g (7 oz) egg noodles or your favorite noodles (can use rice noodles for a gluten-free option)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots (optional, for color and crunch)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, can skip for a vegetarian version)
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance flavors)
- 1/4 cup dried seaweed (such as nori, wakame, or kombu), rehydrated if needed
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)
- A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
- 1 green onion, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional, for added flavor)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Noodles:
- Cook the noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain them well and set aside. If using rice noodles, rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Seaweed:
- If you’re using dried seaweed (like nori or wakame), soak it in warm water for a few minutes to rehydrate. Drain it well and chop it into bite-sized pieces if needed. If you’re using fresh seaweed, rinse it thoroughly.
3. Stir-Fry the Vegetables:
- In a large frying pan or wok, heat the vegetable oil (or sesame oil) over medium-high heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sliced onion, and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes tender and the garlic is fragrant.
- Add the shredded carrots (if using) and cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the Noodles:
- Add the cooked noodles to the pan. Stir well to combine the noodles with the vegetables and allow them to heat through for about 2 minutes.
5. Season the Noodles:
- Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sugar (if desired). Stir everything together to coat the noodles evenly in the sauce.
- Add the rehydrated seaweed and mix it in gently, cooking for another minute or two until everything is heated through.
6. Finish the Dish:
- Drizzle with sesame oil (if using) for extra flavor.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds (optional) and red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat).
- Garnish with freshly chopped green onions.
7. Serve:
- Serve the Fried Noodles with Seaweed hot as a main dish or side. You can enjoy it on its own or pair it with a protein like chicken, tofu, or shrimp.
Tips:
- Vegetable Options: Feel free to add any additional vegetables you like, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or cabbage.
- Flavor Adjustments: If you like it saltier, you can add more soy sauce, or for a sweeter version, increase the sugar a bit. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
- Seaweed Variety: If you can find different types of seaweed (like wakame or kombu), they each bring a unique flavor and texture to the dish. You can mix and match!
This Fried Noodles with Seaweed is an easy, savory dish full of umami flavors that will quickly become a favorite. The seaweed adds a unique, ocean-like richness, while the noodles are satisfying and comforting. Enjoy!