Hot Dry Noodles Recipe (Reganmian)

Wheat noodles: These are the base of the dish, providing a chewy and satisfying texture.

Sesame paste: Adds a rich, nutty flavor and creamy texture to the noodles.

Soy sauce: Brings a salty and umami depth to the dish.

Chili oil: Adds heat and a complex, spicy flavor.

Garlic: Provides a pungent and aromatic element.

Sugar: Balances the flavors with a touch of sweetness.

Salt: Enhances the overall taste of the dish.

Green onions: Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color.

Sesame oil: Drizzled on top for a fragrant and nutty finish.

When preparing sesame paste for the sauce, it's essential to ensure it is well-mixed and smooth. If the paste is too thick, you can thin it out by adding a small amount of warm water, a teaspoon at a time, until it reaches a pourable consistency. This will help it blend more evenly with the soy sauce and chili oil, ensuring that the noodles are uniformly coated with the rich, flavorful sauce.

• wheat noodles - Substitute with rice noodles: Rice noodles offer a similar texture and are gluten-free, making them suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

• sesame paste - Substitute with tahini: Tahini is made from sesame seeds and has a similar creamy texture and nutty flavor.

• soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce with a similar umami flavor.

• chili oil - Substitute with sriracha: Sriracha provides a similar heat and can be mixed with a bit of oil to mimic the consistency of chili oil.

• garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used in place of fresh garlic, though you may need to adjust the quantity to taste.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds sweetness and a slight floral note, though it may slightly alter the flavor profile.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add both saltiness and umami, though you may need to adjust the quantity to avoid overpowering the dish.

• green onions - Substitute with chives: Chives offer a similar mild onion flavor and can be used as a garnish.

• sesame oil - Substitute with peanut oil: Peanut oil has a nutty flavor and can be used in place of sesame oil, though it may slightly alter the taste.

• Allow the noodles to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the noodles soggy.

• Transfer the cooled noodles to an airtight container. Ensure the container is sealed tightly to maintain freshness.

• For short-term storage, place the container in the refrigerator. The noodles will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

• If you plan to store the noodles for a longer period, consider freezing them. Divide the noodles into individual portions to make reheating easier.

• When freezing, use freezer-safe bags or containers. Label them with the date to keep track of their storage time.

• To reheat refrigerated noodles, you can use a microwave. Place the noodles in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.

• For frozen noodles, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat using a microwave or a stovetop method. If using the stovetop, add a splash of water or broth to prevent the noodles from drying out.

• Always check the texture and taste of the noodles after reheating. If they seem too dry, you can add a bit more sesame oil or soy sauce to revive their flavor.

• Avoid reheating noodles multiple times, as this can affect their texture and taste. Only reheat the portion you plan to consume.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add a small amount of sesame oil to the skillet.
  3. Add the leftover noodles to the skillet and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
  4. If the noodles seem dry, add a splash of water or soy sauce to rehydrate them.
  5. Garnish with fresh green onions before serving.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the leftover noodles in a microwave-safe bowl.
  2. Add a splash of water or soy sauce to keep the noodles from drying out.
  3. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent.
  4. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
  5. Garnish with fresh green onions before serving.

• Boiling Water Method:

  1. Boil a pot of water.
  2. Place the leftover noodles in a heatproof colander or strainer.
  3. Submerge the colander in the boiling water for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
  4. Remove the colander and let the water drain off.
  5. Toss the noodles with a bit of sesame oil and garnish with fresh green onions before serving.

• Pot: Used to cook the wheat noodles according to the package instructions.

• Strainer: Used to drain the cooked noodles after boiling.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the sesame paste, soy sauce, chili oil, minced garlic, sugar, and salt.

• Whisk: Used to mix the sauce ingredients until well combined.

• Tongs: Used to toss the cooked noodles in the sauce until evenly coated.

• Knife: Used to mince the garlic and chop the green onions.

• Cutting board: Used as a surface for mincing garlic and chopping green onions.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the sesame paste, soy sauce, chili oil, sugar, salt, and sesame oil.

• Serving bowl: Used to serve the hot dry noodles once they are prepared.

Pre-make the sauce: Prepare the sesame paste, soy sauce, chili oil, minced garlic, sugar, and salt mixture in advance and store it in the fridge.

Use pre-cooked noodles: Opt for pre-cooked wheat noodles to cut down on boiling time.

Chop in bulk: Chop the green onions ahead of time and store them in an airtight container.

Quick garlic prep: Use pre-minced garlic from a jar to save time on peeling and chopping.

Efficient garnishing: Keep a bottle of sesame oil with a pour spout for quick drizzling.