Spicy Potato Noodles
Spicy Potato Noodles: A Flavor-Packed Adventure in Every Bite (Homemade Chewy Noodles with Chili Oil)
If you’re on the hunt for a delightful dish that delivers a punch of flavor wrapped up in a fun, chewy texture, look no further than Spicy Potato Noodles! These thick, bouncy noodles are blanketed in a garlicky, savory, and mildly spicy chili oil sauce that dances on your taste buds. Imagine a plate of pure comfort food that’s not only delicious but also a joy to make. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering, these Spicy Potato Noodles will leave you and your guests craving more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a culinary treasure for several reasons:
– Big, Bold Flavors: The combination of garlic, chili oil, and cilantro creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
– Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you serve it as a main course or a side dish, everyone will be coming back for seconds!
– Flexible & Fast: Quick to prepare and easy to customize, you can whip it up in just 35 minutes.
– Make-Ahead Magic: Perfect for meal prep, these noodles can be made ahead and enjoyed at your convenience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Get ready to gather some incredible ingredients that will elevate your Spicy Potato Noodles into the realm of deliciousness! The potatoes and the rich chili oil are true flavor game-changers, making this dish simply irresistible.
– 1.1 pounds russet potatoes (peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces; gold potatoes are fine too)
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 1½ cups potato starch
– ½ cup warm water
– 2 tablespoons regular soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons Chinese black vinegar
– 2 tablespoons gochugaru (coarse) (or fine ground or Chinese chili powder)
– 1¼ teaspoons granulated sugar
– ⅛ teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons minced garlic
– 1 stalk green onion, sliced
– 3 tablespoons neutral oil (such as avocado, sunflower, or grapeseed)
– ⅓ cup cilantro, roughly chopped
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.
Variations
The beauty of Spicy Potato Noodles lies in their versatility! Feel free to get creative with these fun variations:
– Go Gluten-Free: Swap regular soy sauce for gluten-free tamari.
– Add Extra Protein: Toss in some cooked chicken or tofu for a heartier meal.
– Make it Spicier: Increase the amount of gochugaru or add some chopped fresh chili for a fiery kick!
– Swap the Dressing: Experiment with other Asian sauces like sesame oil or sweet chili sauce for a different flavor profile.
– Cheese it Up: Sprinkle some crumbled feta or goat cheese for a creamy finish.
How to Make Spicy Potato Noodles
Get ready to dive into the fun part! Making Spicy Potato Noodles is a straightforward process, and I promise, it’s as enjoyable as it is delicious:
Step 1: Cook the Potatoes
Place the cut potatoes in a pot of boiling water and cook until they’re fork-tender, about 10 to 15 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Dough
Drain the cooked potatoes and transfer them into a heatproof mixing bowl. Sprinkle in the salt and mash the potatoes with a fork until no chunks remain.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
While the mashed potatoes are still warm, add the potato starch and mix until everything is well combined. Once it’s comfortable to handle, start kneading until you have a cohesive dough. This step helps keep the noodles perfectly pliable!
Step 4: Add Water and Form the Dough
Gradually add the warm water to the dough and mix until absorbed. Your dough should be smooth and ready for shaping!
Step 5: Prepare for Noodle Making
Bring a pot of water to a boil and set up your noodle-making station close by, along with a large bowl of cold water for cooling the noodles.
Step 6: Shape the Noodles
Divide the dough into 14 equal pieces, keeping them covered with a damp towel to prevent drying out. Roll each piece into ½-inch thick noodles.
Step 7: Cook the Noodles
Gently place the noodles into the boiling water, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Give them a stir after adding to prevent sticking.
Step 8: Cool the Noodles
Once the noodles float to the top, let them cook for an additional minute, then remove and transfer them to the bowl of cold water. Repeat this with the remaining noodles.
Step 9: Make the Chili Oil
In a heatproof bowl, combine all the ingredients for the chili oil except the oil and cilantro. Heat the oil in a small pan until it starts to smoke, then pour it over the ingredients in the bowl. Stir once everything settles.
Step 10: Assemble the Dish
Drain the potato noodles well and place them in a large bowl. Add the prepared chili oil and chopped cilantro, mixing until the noodles are beautifully coated. Enjoy while warm!
Pro Tips for Making Spicy Potato Noodles
To help you achieve the best results, here are some pro tips:
– Use Warm Potatoes: The warmth of the potatoes makes the starch easier to work with, leading to wonderfully stretchy noodles.
– Knead Gently: Don’t over-knead the dough; just enough to combine will keep your noodles tender.
– Cook in Batches: If you have a large batch of noodles, cook them in smaller batches to ensure they don’t stick together.
– Adjusting Spice Levels: Always taste as you go! You can easily adjust the spice level of the chili oil to suit your preference.
How to Serve Spicy Potato Noodles
Garnishes
Elevate your dish with beautiful garnishes like extra cilantro, sliced green onions, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added crunch!
Side Dishes
Pair your Spicy Potato Noodles with some crispy chicken karaage, Taiwanese fried chicken, or a refreshing Chinese smashed cucumber salad for a complete meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these noodles in individual bowls for a cozy dinner or on a large platter for a festive gathering. Lunchboxes filled with these noodles make for an exciting meal on the go!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Spicy Potato Noodles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing
While these noodles are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze them for up to a month. Just be aware they may lose some texture once thawed.
Reheating
Simply reheat the noodles in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or oil to keep them moist. Enjoy them warm for the best flavor!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of potato?
Absolutely! Gold potatoes work just as well, giving the noodles a slightly different flavor profile.
Is this recipe spicy?
It has a mild spice level, but you can amp it up by adding more gochugaru or fresh chili peppers based on your preference!
How do I make this gluten-free?
Just use gluten-free soy sauce, and you’re good to go!
Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes! You can pre-make the noodles and sauce. Store them separately in the fridge, then toss them together just before serving.
Final Thoughts
There you have it! Spicy Potato Noodles are not just a meal; they’re an experience that brings joy and warmth with every bite. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or impressing guests, this dish is bound to become a new favorite. So roll up those sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the noodle-making adventure begin. Happy cooking!
