Kimchi Fried Noodles is a fun and spicy dish that brings together chewy noodles and zesty kimchi. It’s quick to whip up, making it perfect for a busy weeknight meal!
Honestly, those crunchy bits of kimchi take these noodles to a whole new level. I always find myself going back for seconds (or maybe even thirds)! It’s just that good! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Noodles: Udon noodles give a chewy bite, but you can use thick wheat noodles, rice noodles, or even spaghetti in a pinch. Each will change the texture but will still be delicious!
Kimchi: Choose your favorite kimchi—cabbage or radish works well. If you’re in a pinch, quick-pickled veggies can substitute, though it won’t have the same depth of flavor.
Vegetable Oil: I usually opt for sesame oil for an extra layer of taste. If you want something lighter, stick with vegetable or canola oil. Just keep that flavor in mind!
Gochujang: This adds a lovely heat, but feel free to skip it or use sriracha instead. If you’re looking for less spice, a dollop of ketchup can also work for a different flavor profile.
How Do You Get Your Onions Soft and Flavorful?
Soft, fragrant onions are key in this dish. Here’s the best way to ensure they turn out perfectly:
- Start with medium-high heat, but don’t rush! Stir them gently so they don’t burn.
- Add a splash of water if they start to stick. This helps them cook without becoming too brown initially.
- Once they’re soft and starting to brown (about 2-3 minutes), that’s your cue to add the garlic and kimchi!
Trust me, this little step helps build amazing flavor in your Kimchi Fried Noodles!
Kimchi Fried Noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Noodles & Sauce:
- 200g (7 oz) fresh or dried udon noodles (or any thick wheat noodles)
- 1 cup kimchi, chopped (with some kimchi juice)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or sesame oil for more flavor)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon gochujang (Korean red chili paste) – optional for extra heat
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Vegetables & Toppings:
- 1/2 onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green onion, chopped (reserve some for garnish)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 fried egg (sunny side up), for topping
- Chili flakes (optional), for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Kimchi Fried Noodles dish takes about 15 minutes of preparation and cooking time. It’s perfect for a quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Noodles:
If you’re using dried noodles, start by cooking them according to the package instructions until they are just tender. Drain them well and set aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.
2. Heat Up the Oil:
In a large pan or wok, heat the vegetable oil (or sesame oil) over medium-high heat. Let the oil heat up for a minute so it’s ready for cooking!
3. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
Add the sliced onions and minced garlic to the pan. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes soft and fragrant, filling your kitchen with a lovely aroma!
4. Add the Kimchi:
Next, toss in the chopped kimchi along with a bit of its juice. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently. This will allow the kimchi to soften and release more flavor, making your dish even tastier!
5. Combine the Sauces:
Stir in the gochujang (if you’re using it), soy sauce, and sugar. Mix everything well to combine all the delicious flavors together.
6. Mix in the Noodles:
Now it’s time to add the cooked noodles to the pan. Toss everything together so that the noodles are evenly coated with the kimchi mixture. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes to heat through and get a slight caramelization!
7. Final Touches:
Add the chopped green onions and freshly ground black pepper. Give everything a final stir, mixing all the ingredients together.
8. Serve It Up!
Transfer the noodles to a plate or bowl while they’re hot. The aroma is irresistible!
9. Add the Fried Egg:
Top each serving with a perfectly fried sunny-side-up egg. This gives a lovely richness to the dish!
10. Garnish and Enjoy:
If you like a bit of extra spice, sprinkle some chili flakes on top and add any reserved green onion as garnish. Now it’s ready to enjoy your spicy, tangy, and comforting Kimchi Fried Noodles!
Can I Use Any Type of Noodles for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While udon noodles are recommended for their chewy texture, you can also use thick wheat noodles, rice noodles, or even spaghetti if that’s what you have on hand. Each will give a different but tasty experience!
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
You can easily keep it vegetarian by omitting the fried egg or substituting it with a vegan egg alternative. Just ensure that the kimchi you use is also vegetarian-friendly, as some brands add fish sauce.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them gently in a pan over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to help steam and revive the noodles.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Definitely! If you love heat, you can increase the amount of gochujang or add a dash of sriracha while cooking. You can also sprinkle more chili flakes on top before serving for an extra kick!
