Vegan Garlic Noodles Recipe

Savory Vegan Garlic Noodles Recipe That’s Simply Irresistible

Twirling chopsticks around these silky vegan garlic noodles brings instant comfort to your evening meal.

Each strand carries bold, aromatic flavors that dance across your palate.

garlic intense personality infuses every delectable bite with remarkable depth.

Slurping these noodles feels like a culinary adventure through umami landscapes.

Simple ingredients create something spectacularly delicious without complicated techniques.

Minimal effort rewards you with maximum satisfaction when you craft this plant-based masterpiece.

Yourself savoring each mouthwatering forkful of pure plant-powered magic.

Ways To Switch Up Vegan Garlic Noodles

  • Spicy Chili Garlic Noodles: Add extra sriracha and red pepper flakes for a fiery kick. Incorporate diced jalapeños or chili oil to intensify the heat and create a bold, zesty flavor profile.
  • Ginger Sesame Noodle Fusion: Introduce freshly grated ginger and increase sesame oil for a nutty, aromatic experience. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds generously and add chopped cilantro for brightness.
  • Crispy Vegetable Loaded Noodles: Stir-fry mixed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and snow peas before adding noodles. Create texture by quickly pan-frying the noodles to achieve a slightly crispy exterior.
  • Peanut Sauce Transformation: Replace hoisin sauce with creamy peanut butter and add a touch of lime juice. Garnish with crushed peanuts and fresh Thai basil leaves for a Southeast Asian-inspired variation.

Answers About Vegan Garlic Noodles

  • What makes these noodles vegan?

These noodles are completely plant-based, using ingredients like soy sauce, maple syrup, and sesame oil instead of any animal products. No eggs, dairy, or meat are used in the recipe.

  • Can I adjust the spice level of the noodles?

Absolutely! The sriracha gives a kick of heat, but you can easily control the spiciness by adding more or less sriracha, or omitting it completely if you prefer a milder flavor.

  • Are these noodles gluten-free?

The recipe isn’t automatically gluten-free due to soy sauce and hoisin sauce, which typically contain wheat. To make it gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce and check that your hoisin sauce is gluten-free.

  • What type of noodles work best for this recipe?

While the recipe is versatile, thin wheat noodles or lo mein noodles work great. You can also use rice noodles or even spaghetti for a similar result.

What Makes Vegan Garlic Noodles So Tasty

  • Burst with Garlicky Goodness: These noodles pack an intense, aromatic punch that garlic lovers will absolutely adore, with perfectly sautéed minced garlic creating a rich, deep flavor profile.
  • Super Quick Weeknight Meal: Ready in just 15-20 minutes, this recipe offers a lightning-fast dinner solution for busy individuals who want delicious food without spending hours in the kitchen.
  • Customize Your Comfort: The flexible recipe allows easy modifications like adjusting spice levels with sriracha, swapping noodle types, or adding extra vegetables for personalized nutrition and taste.
  • Plant-Powered Deliciousness: Completely vegan-friendly, these noodles prove that plant-based meals can be incredibly satisfying, flavorful, and exciting without compromising on taste or texture.

What Goes Into Vegan Garlic Noodles

Noodle Base:
  • Noodles: Soft and chewy base for the dish, providing a perfect carrier for the flavorful sauce. Choose thin wheat or rice noodles for best results.
  • Cooking Water: Essential for adjusting sauce consistency and adding starchy depth to the final dish.
Sauce Ingredients:
  • Soy Sauce, Hoisin Sauce: Provides deep umami and rich flavor foundation. Look for gluten-free options if needed.
  • Maple Syrup: Adds subtle sweetness to balance the savory elements. Pure maple syrup recommended.
  • Rice Vinegar: Brings bright, tangy notes to the sauce. Helps balance overall flavor profile.
  • Sriracha: Optional spicy kick for those who enjoy heat. Adjust to personal spice preference.
Aromatics and Garnish:
  • Garlic, Green Onions: Provides intense flavor and fresh, sharp aromatics. Fresh garlic and green onions will give the best taste.
  • Sesame Oil: Adds nutty, authentic Asian-inspired flavor. Use toasted sesame oil for deeper taste.
  • Sesame Seeds: Crunchy garnish that adds texture and visual appeal. Toasted seeds enhance flavor.

How To Cook Vegan Garlic Noodles

Step 1: Boil Noodle Magic

Fill a large pot with water and sprinkle in salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil. Gently drop in your favorite noodles and cook until they reach that perfect tender-yet-firm texture. Drain the noodles, but keep a small cup of the starchy cooking water as a secret weapon for later.

Step 2: Whip Up Flavor Explosion

Grab a mixing bowl and prepare for a sauce adventure. Combine these flavor-packed ingredients:
  • Soy sauce
  • Hoisin sauce
  • Maple syrup
  • Rice vinegar
  • Sriracha (optional for heat lovers)

Whisk everything together until smooth and well-blended.

Step 3: Unleash Garlic Aroma

Warm up a skillet with a splash of sesame oil. Toss in finely chopped garlic and let it dance in the pan. Stir continuously to prevent burning, allowing the garlic to release its magical fragrance. This should take about 1-2 minutes.

Step 4: Marry Noodles and Sauce

Slide the cooked noodles into the skillet with the sizzling garlic. Pour the sauce over the noodles and toss everything together. If the mixture looks a bit dry, splash in some of that reserved cooking water. Sprinkle chopped green onions into the mix and give everything a final stir.

Step 5: Create Culinary Art

Transfer the glossy, aromatic noodles to serving plates. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for a delightful crunch. Garnish with extra green onions for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately while the noodles are hot and bursting with flavor.

Helpful Tricks For Vegan Garlic Noodles

  • Prevent Garlic Burning: Heat sesame oil on medium-low temperature to ensure garlic becomes fragrant without turning bitter or scorched.
  • Customize Spice Level: Adjust sriracha amount to control heat intensity, making the dish milder or zestier based on personal preference.
  • Boost Protein Content: Add tofu, edamame, or tempeh cubes during the final cooking stage to enhance nutritional value and create a more filling meal.
  • Enhance Sauce Consistency: Reserve pasta water helps create silky, smooth sauce that perfectly coats noodles without becoming too dry or sticky.
  • Optimize Flavor Depth: Let noodles sit in sauce for 1-2 minutes after tossing to allow ingredients to fully absorb and blend delicious seasonings.

Storing And Warming Up Vegan Garlic Noodles

  • Refrigerate: Transfer cooled noodles to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Seal tightly to prevent moisture loss and maintain flavor.
  • Microwave Reheating: Place noodles in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle with a few drops of water, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to distribute heat evenly. Stop when thoroughly warm.
  • Skillet Refresh: Quickly revive noodles in a hot skillet with a splash of sesame oil. Stir-fry for 23 minutes to restore texture and bring back the original delicious flavors.
  • Quick Tip: Add fresh green onions after reheating to boost freshness and restore the vibrant appearance of the dish.

Great Sides For Vegan Garlic Noodles

  • Enhance Flavor Harmony: Pair these vegan garlic noodles with a crisp, light Sauvignon Blanc that cuts through the rich, savory sauce and complements the garlic's intensity.
  • Refresh with Beverages: Sip on a cold jasmine green tea to balance the noodles' warmth and provide a subtle, floral counterpoint to the dish's bold flavors.
  • Elevate with Sides: Serve alongside roasted edamame sprinkled with sea salt, adding a protein-packed crunch that contrasts the soft, silky noodles.
  • Boost Texture Contrast: Add a small side of pickled cucumber salad to introduce a tangy, refreshing element that brightens the deep umami notes of the garlic noodles.
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Vegan Garlic Noodles Recipe

Vegan Garlic Noodles Recipe


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4.8 from 29 reviews

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Silky garlic noodles dance with umami-rich flavors in this plant-based Asian-inspired comfort dish. Simple ingredients merge into a quick weeknight meal that delivers deep satisfaction without compromising deliciousness for you.


Ingredients

Scale

Noodles:

  • 8 ounces (226 grams) spaghetti or noodles of choice (rice noodles or udon work well)

Sauce Components:

  • 3 tablespoons (45 milliliters) sesame oil or neutral oil (like avocado or vegetable oil)
  • 3 tablespoons (45 milliliters) soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) hoisin sauce (vegan-friendly)
  • 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) maple syrup or agave syrup
  • 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon (5 milliliters) sriracha or chili paste (optional, for heat)

Aromatics and Garnishes:

  • 5 garlic cloves, minced
  • ¼ cup (60 milliliters) green onions, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
  • 1 teaspoon (5 milliliters) sesame seeds, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare a generously salted water bath in a large pot, bringing it to a rolling boil. Submerge the noodles and cook until they reach a perfect tender-firm consistency, typically following the package guidance. Once done, carefully drain the noodles, preserving a small portion of the starchy liquid for potential sauce adjustment.
  2. Craft a flavor-packed sauce by whisking together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, and optional sriracha in a compact mixing vessel. Allow the ingredients to meld while preparing the remaining components.
  3. Warm sesame oil in a spacious skillet or wok over moderate heat. Introduce finely chopped garlic, gently sautéing until an enticing aroma emerges and the garlic turns golden, exercising caution to prevent scorching.
  4. Transfer the drained noodles directly into the fragrant garlic-infused pan. Pour the prepared sauce over the noodles, meticulously tossing to ensure comprehensive coating. Should the mixture appear dry, introduce a splash of reserved cooking water to create a silky texture.
  5. Incorporate sliced green onions into the noodle mixture, allowing them to briefly dance in the heat and release their subtle flavors. Continue stirring to guarantee even distribution and optimal flavor absorption.
  6. Plate the glistening noodles onto serving dishes, creating an inviting presentation. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and additional emerald-green onion slices for a final flourish of color and texture. Serve immediately while piping hot.

Notes

  • Choose gluten-free noodles like rice or quinoa pasta to make the dish celiac-friendly and ensure everyone can enjoy this flavorful meal.
  • Reserve pasta water strategically as it contains starch that helps create a silky, smooth sauce coating for the noodles without making them too dry.
  • Toast sesame seeds quickly in a dry pan before sprinkling to enhance their nutty flavor and provide a delightful crunchy texture contrast to the soft noodles.
  • Adjust sriracha quantity based on personal spice tolerance – start with less and gradually increase to create a personalized heat level that doesn’t overwhelm the garlic’s delicate taste.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 50 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 8 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg
James Mitchell

James Mitchell

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Recipe Creation and Testing​, Fusion Cuisine​, Food Styling and Photography​, Culinary Education​

Education

Kendall College, Chicago, IL

  • Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in classic and modern cooking techniques, with a specialization in international cuisines.​

The Culinary Institute of America, Hyde Park, NY

  • Program: Advanced Certificate in Gastronomy
  • Focus: In-depth studies of global food cultures, flavor profiling, and innovative recipe development.​

James Mitchell is the founder and fearless flavor explorer at Cooking Crusade. With a degree in Culinary Arts from Kendall College and advanced training in global gastronomy from The Culinary Institute of America, James has spent over a decade perfecting the art of recipe creation. 

His background includes fine dining, private cheffing, and food styling, but his true joy comes from turning big ideas into doable recipes for home cooks. Every dish he shares is a mix of creativity, culture, and a little kitchen magic, built to bring excitement back to everyday meals.

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