Quick Spicy Coconut Noodles

What do you cook when you really can’t be bothered cooking? These one-pot, quick spicy coconut noodles hit the spot for me every time. Part ramen, part noodle soup, part saucy noodle bowls, they’re creamy, delicious, and nourishing comfort food. Bonus: they take just 20 minutes to make! Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this dish brings a delightful balance of spice and creaminess that will satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, these noodles are perfect for busy days.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of gochujang, coconut milk, and fresh herbs creates a rich and satisfying taste.
• One-Pot Wonder: Easy cleanup is guaranteed since everything cooks in one pot!
• Versatile Ingredients: You can customize the noodles with your favorite veggies or proteins.
• Comfort Food: Creamy and spicy, these noodles are the ultimate comfort food for any occasion.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large saucepan
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring spoons
• Knife
• Chopping board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large saucepan: Ideal for cooking all ingredients at once without spilling.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware.
• Measuring spoons: Ensures accurate flavoring by measuring sauces and pastes correctly.

Ingredients

Base Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons gochujang paste
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons fish sauce (or a vegan alternative/more soy sauce)
• 2 tablespoons chili oil (plus more to serve)

Aromatics

• 2 garlic cloves, crushed
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated (or use 2 teaspoons of ginger paste)
• 1 lemongrass stalk, crushed and chopped into 3 pieces (or use 1 tablespoon of lemongrass paste)

Broth Components

• 14oz/400ml can of coconut milk (look for a coconut extract level above 60%)
• 5 cups/1.2 litres vegetable or chicken stock

Noodles and Vegetables

• 200g/7oz noodles of your choice
• 2 heads of pak choi, sliced
• 4 scallions (spring onions), finely sliced

Garnish

• Handful of cilantro (coriander) leaves
• 1 lime, sliced into wedges

How to Make Quick Spicy Coconut Noodles

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Set a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the following ingredients:
1. 2 tablespoons gochujang paste
2. 1 tablespoon soy sauce
3. 2 teaspoons fish sauce
4. 2 tablespoons chili oil

Stir for a minute or two until fragrant. Then add the crushed garlic and grated ginger. Cook while stirring for another minute.

Step 2: Create the Broth

Pour in the following:
1. 14oz can of coconut milk
2. Crushed lemongrass pieces
3. 5 cups vegetable or chicken stock

Stir everything together until well combined. Bring it to a simmer, then lower the heat and let it cook for five minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Noodles

Add your choice of noodles directly into the broth:
1. Stir well.
2. Let them cook according to package instructions—about 4 minutes on average.

Once cooked, add the sliced pak choi:
1. Stir through for about one minute until bright green.
2. Remove the pot from heat.

Step 4: Serve with Flair

Divide the saucy noodles and pak choi between bowls:
1. Spoon lots of lovely sauce into each bowl.
2. Squeeze a lime wedge over each serving.
3. Top with sliced scallions and cilantro leaves.
4. Finish with an extra drizzle of chili oil and serve with additional lime wedges on the side.

Enjoy your deliciously quick spicy coconut noodles!

How to Serve Quick Spicy Coconut Noodles

Serving Quick Spicy Coconut Noodles can be a fun and creative experience. You can customize your bowls with fresh ingredients and unique toppings to enhance the dish’s flavor and presentation.

Fresh Herbs

• Cilantro: A handful of cilantro leaves adds freshness and brightens up the dish.
• Basil: Thai basil can provide a sweet and peppery note, perfect for enhancing the Asian flavors.

Crunchy Toppings

• Peanuts: Chopped or crushed peanuts add crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the creaminess of the noodles.
• Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds can offer an additional layer of flavor and texture.

Additional Proteins

• Tofu: Cubes of pan-fried or grilled tofu can make this dish heartier and add more protein.
• Shrimp: Cooked shrimp can elevate the dish, adding a seafood twist to your noodle bowl.

Lime Wedges

• Extra Lime Juice: Squeezing more lime over your noodles just before eating can brighten up the flavors even further.

How to Perfect Quick Spicy Coconut Noodles

To make sure your Quick Spicy Coconut Noodles are always delightful, consider these tips for perfection.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, ginger, and herbs will provide better flavor than dried alternatives.
• Adjust Spice Levels: If you like it spicier, increase the amount of gochujang or chili oil to suit your taste.
• Choose Quality Coconut Milk: Look for coconut milk with a higher coconut extract level for richer flavor.
• Cook Noodles Al Dente: Follow package instructions closely to ensure your noodles have the right texture without becoming mushy.
• Add Vegetables Last: Incorporating vegetables like pak choi towards the end helps retain their vibrant color and crunch.
• Taste Before Serving: Always taste your broth before serving; adjust seasoning with salt or extra soy sauce if needed.

Best Side Dishes for Quick Spicy Coconut Noodles

Pairing side dishes with Quick Spicy Coconut Noodles can create a complete meal experience. Here are some delicious options you might consider.

1. Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with vegetables make for a light appetizer that complements the creamy noodles.
2. Asian Salad: A refreshing salad with cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing provides crunch and balances the richness of the noodles.
3. Edamame: Steamed edamame sprinkled with salt is a nutritious snack that pairs well with any Asian-inspired meal.
4. Kimchi: This fermented side offers spicy tanginess that contrasts beautifully with the creamy coconut broth.
5. Grilled Veggies: Lightly charred vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers add depth and smokiness to your meal.
6. Miso Soup: A small bowl of miso soup serves as a warm starter that enhances the overall dining experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Quick Spicy Coconut Noodles, even small errors can affect the taste and texture. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Ignoring the Cooking Time: Different noodles have varying cooking times. Always check your noodle package for guidance to ensure perfect texture.
• Skipping Ingredient Prep: Failing to prep ingredients like garlic and ginger in advance can lead to uneven flavors. Always measure and prepare before you start cooking.
• Overcooking the Vegetables: Cooking pak choi for too long can make it soggy. Add it towards the end of the cooking process for a vibrant crunch.
• Not Balancing Flavors: If your broth tastes flat, adjust with more soy sauce or lime juice. Tasting as you go helps achieve a well-rounded flavor.
• Using Low-Quality Coconut Milk: A good coconut milk makes all the difference. Choose brands with high coconut extract content for creaminess.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• item Keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Quick Spicy Coconut Noodles

• item Let the noodles cool completely before freezing.
• item Use freezer-safe containers or bags, ensuring you remove excess air.
• item They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Quick Spicy Coconut Noodles

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place noodles in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place noodles in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about Quick Spicy Coconut Noodles:

Can I make these noodles vegan?

Yes! Simply use plant-based alternatives like vegan fish sauce and omit any animal products.

What types of noodles work best?

You can use any type of noodle you prefer; rice noodles, udon, or ramen work great in this recipe.

How spicy are these Quick Spicy Coconut Noodles?

The spice level can be adjusted by adding more or less chili oil or gochujang according to your taste preference.

Can I customize the vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute other veggies like bell peppers or spinach based on what you have on hand.

Final Thoughts

Quick Spicy Coconut Noodles are not only fast and easy but also incredibly satisfying. This versatile recipe allows for numerous customization options, making it perfect whether you’re looking for a comforting meal after a long day or want to impress friends at dinner. Give it a try and explore different ingredients to create your ideal bowl!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Quick Spicy Coconut Noodles

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Craving a delicious, comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen? Quick Spicy Coconut Noodles are your answer! This one-pot wonder combines creamy coconut milk, spicy gochujang, and fresh herbs to create a flavor-packed dish that is ready in just 20 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, these noodles offer a delightful balance of spice and creaminess that will satisfy all your cravings. Customize them with your favorite vegetables or proteins for a meal that perfectly suits your taste!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 tablespoons gochujang paste
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons fish sauce (or a vegan alternative/more soy sauce)
• 2 tablespoons chili oil (plus more to serve)
• 2 garlic cloves, crushed
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated (or use 2 teaspoons of ginger paste)
• 1 lemongrass stalk, crushed and chopped into 3 pieces (or use 1 tablespoon of lemongrass paste)
• 14oz/400ml can of coconut milk
• 5 cups/1.2 litres vegetable or chicken stock
• 200g/7oz noodles of your choice
• 2 heads of pak choi, sliced
• 4 scallions (spring onions), finely sliced
• Handful of cilantro (coriander) leaves
• 1 lime, sliced into wedges

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Instructions

1. In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine gochujang, soy sauce, fish sauce, and chili oil. Stir until fragrant.
2. Add crushed garlic and grated ginger; cook for another minute.
3. Pour in coconut milk and stock; bring to a simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Add noodles and cook according to package instructions (about 4 minutes). Stir in sliced pak choi until bright green.
5. Serve in bowls, garnished with lime wedges, cilantro, and an extra drizzle of chili oil.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: One-Pot
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 400g)
• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 1200mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 13g
• Unsaturated Fat: 17g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 0mg