Asian Chili Garlic Noodles

Here's what you'll need for 4 servings:

Photo byClaire

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped, optional
• 4 garlic cloves, minced or puree
• 1 Tbs fresh ginger, grated or pureed
• 2 shallots, sliced
• 1-3 Tbs chili garlic sauce
• 1/4 cup Shoyu soy sauce
• 8 oz Rice noodles, regular or wide
• 2 Tbs Brown sugar, light
• 1 Tbs peanut or olive oil for frying
• 2 tsp sesame oil, toasted
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes, optional

Optional Add-Ins:

• Red bell pepper
• Chicken, shrimp, or tofu
• Sugar snap peas
• Broccoli
• Sesame seeds

Cook rice noodles according to package directions. While it boils, add the shallots and garlic to a pot and sauté in oil until browned, roughly 10 minutes. Add the white parts of the scallions and grated ginger, and cook for another 2-3 minutes.

Pour in the rest of the sauce ingredients, starting with the lower end of the suggested amounts of chili sauce (around 1 tablespoon or less) and work up. It's much easier to add more spice later if needed, but hard to reduce it once added!

Once the noodles are cooked, mix them with the sauce, stirring until they are thoroughly coated. Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes so the noodles can soak up the flavors. I also added two diced roasted red peppers, but feel free to include any sautéed vegetables of your choice!

Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Remember that the spiciness may build gradually, so take a few bites before deciding if you need to add more red chili flakes!

Top with more spice if desired, the remaining chopped scallions, and any add-ons you prefer. Enjoy!