So next time, when you have a hungry family to feed, grab a few packets of instant noodles, ditch the package seasoning, and make this garlic sesame noodle in no time. I cannot call them just sesame noodles, as the pungent flavor and aroma of garlic play an equally important role here. Along with the soy sauce, it complements the nutty tones of sesame with its spicy and umami flavors. I have nothing against the packet seasonings, and they are super convenient when I am time-constrained. But underneath, what they are: artificial flavors and preservatives. When you can spend a few more minutes and incorporate healthy and fresh ingredients like garlic and sesame oil, you get depth and authenticity. I like the flavor sesame adds to noodles and had earlier shared a sesame and ginger-flavored Crispy Sesame Ginger Tofu With Soba Noodles. But sesame isn’t limited to noodles. You can also use it with chicken – Sesame Chicken and in a salad too, like my Chinese Chicken Salad With Sesame Dressing. 4. Drain ramen. Add to the wok along with toasted sesame seeds and green onions. Switch off the flame and toss well. You can add shredded carrots, beans, broccoli, mushrooms, peppers, and cabbage. For protein, add leftover or cooked chicken, eggs, or even cooked shrimp. Allow the noodles to cool down and transfer them to an airtight container. This is not ideal for freezing, as the texture changes when you thaw it, and it will lose its characteristic flavors. You can reheat the container in the microwave if it is a suitable container for that. Or shift to a pan on the stovetop. Either way, add a splash of water and toss when you reheat to replenish the lost moisture. A cold salad will complement the hot and spicy noodles. Make one of these quick recipes: Cold Tuna Pasta Salad, Creamy Carrot Salad, or Asian Cucumber Salad. For stir-fried options, check out Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry, Zucchini Stir Fry, or Crispy Tofu in Chinese Garlic Sauce.
