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Quick Spicy Garlic Ramen Noodle Stir Fry in 15 Minutes

spicy garlic ramen noodle stir fry - featured image

A quick and easy spicy garlic ramen noodle stir fry that comes together in under 15 minutes. This recipe uses a unique dry-toasting technique for chewy, crispy noodles coated in a glossy, savory-sweet sauce with a kick of chili.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 packages instant ramen noodles (discard seasoning packets)
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or avocado/canola oil)
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce (e.g., Huy Fong brand)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari/coconut aminos for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar, packed
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1/2 cup water or low-sodium vegetable broth
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions

  1. Crush the ramen blocks: Place each block in a clean kitchen towel and gently crush into bite-sized pieces with your hands or a heavy pan. Set aside.
  2. Mix the sauce: In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, chili garlic sauce, sesame oil, and water or broth. Stir until sugar dissolves.
  3. Heat your pan: Place a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add vegetable oil and let it shimmer for about 30 seconds.
  4. Cook the garlic: Add minced garlic to the hot oil. Stir constantly for 30-45 seconds until fragrant and lightly golden.
  5. Toast the ramen: Add crushed ramen pieces to the pan. Stir in the garlic oil for 1-2 minutes until they smell nutty and turn slightly golden.
  6. Add the sauce: Pour the sauce mixture over the toasted ramen. It will sizzle and steam. Stir to coat every piece. Reduce heat to medium.
  7. Simmer and soften: Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until noodles absorb most of the liquid and become tender but still chewy. Add extra water if too dry; cook longer if too wet.
  8. Finish and garnish: Remove from heat. Sprinkle sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds over the top. Stir once and serve immediately.

Notes

For best texture, do not boil the ramen first. Crush unevenly for varied texture. Prep all ingredients before starting. For a protein boost, add cooked shredded chicken, tofu, or shrimp after garlic is fragrant. Leftovers keep in fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in a hot skillet with a splash of water.

Nutrition

Keywords: spicy garlic ramen, quick ramen stir fry, 15 minute dinner, easy weeknight meal, garlic chili noodles