Introduction:
Experience the bold flavors of Sichuan cuisine with this Spicy Sichuan Noodles recipe! This dish combines the heat of Sichuan peppercorns and chili paste with the savory notes of soy sauce and garlic, all tossed with tender noodles and crunchy vegetables. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or an impressive dinner for guests, these noodles are sure to excite your taste buds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and flavorful: Ready in under 30 minutes with a kick of heat.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice level and add your favorite vegetables or proteins.
- Authentic taste: Brings the authentic flavors of Sichuan cuisine right to your kitchen.
- One-pot wonder: Minimal cleanup with everything cooked in one pan.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz dried noodles (egg noodles, rice noodles, or your choice)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon Sichuan peppercorns (crushed)
- 2 tablespoons chili paste (adjust to taste)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 cup snap peas, trimmed
- 1 cup bell peppers, thinly sliced (any color)
- 1 cup carrots, julienned
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the Noodles:
- Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar. Set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, ginger, and crushed Sichuan peppercorns. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add Vegetables:
- Add the snap peas, bell peppers, and carrots to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are just tender but still crisp.
- Combine and Cook:
- Stir in the chili paste and cook for another 1-2 minutes. Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and pour the sauce over them. Toss everything together until the noodles are well-coated and heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds (if using), and fresh cilantro. Serve hot.
Tips for Success:
- Adjusting Spice: Feel free to modify the amount of chili paste and Sichuan peppercorns based on your spice preference.
- Noodle Types: You can use any type of noodles you prefer; just adjust the cooking time as needed.
- Add Protein: For a complete meal, add cooked chicken, beef, or tofu to the dish.
Recipe Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Ensure your chili paste and soy sauce are vegetarian-friendly.
- Extra Heat: For a spicier kick, add extra chili flakes or hot sauce.
- Nutty Flavor: Add a splash of toasted sesame oil for a nutty depth of flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of steamed dumplings or spring rolls.
- Pair with a simple cucumber salad to balance the heat.
Freezing and Storage:
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: This dish can be frozen, though the texture of the noodles may change slightly. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the noodles.
Special Equipment:
- Skillet or Wok: Essential for stir-frying the vegetables and combining the noodles.
FAQ:
- Can I use a different type of peppercorn?
Yes, if you can’t find Sichuan peppercorns, you can use regular black peppercorns for a different flavor profile. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
The noodles are best enjoyed fresh but can be prepared a day ahead and reheated. Store in an airtight container. - Can I use fresh noodles?
Absolutely! Fresh noodles will work well; just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Preparation Time:
- 10 minutes for prepping ingredients and cooking the vegetables.
Cook Time:
- 15 minutes for cooking and combining everything.
Total Time:
- 25 minutes (including prep and cook time).
Nutrition Information (per serving, assuming 4 servings):
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 7g
Spicy Sichuan Noodles
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz dried noodles (egg noodles, rice noodles, or your choice)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon Sichuan peppercorns (crushed)
- 2 tablespoons chili paste (adjust to taste)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 cup snap peas, trimmed
- 1 cup bell peppers, thinly sliced (any color)
- 1 cup carrots, julienned
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Noodles:
- Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar. Set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, ginger, and crushed Sichuan peppercorns. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add Vegetables:
- Add the snap peas, bell peppers, and carrots to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are just tender but still crisp.
- Combine and Cook:
- Stir in the chili paste and cook for another 1-2 minutes. Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and pour the sauce over them. Toss everything together until the noodles are well-coated and heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds (if using), and fresh cilantro. Serve hot.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes1
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Protein: 10g
Closing Notes:
Have you tried making Spicy Sichuan Noodles? Share your thoughts and variations in the comments below! Tag us on social media with your spicy creations and keep checking back for more delicious recipes.
