Imagine a dish that combines the rich, nutty flavors of sesame with perfectly cooked noodles and golden, crispy mushrooms - a culinary journey that transports you straight to the heart of Asian cuisine. These Sesame Noodles with Mushrooms are not just a meal; they're an experience that promises to tantalize your senses, deliver restaurant-quality flavor in just 25 minutes, and become your new go-to comfort food. Whether you're a busy professional, a home cook looking to impress, or simply craving something deliciously satisfying, this recipe is about to become your secret weapon in the kitchen.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces noodles (spaghetti or udon)
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, sliced
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the noodles and cook according to package instructions until they are al dente, typically 8-10 minutes for spaghetti or 3-4 minutes for udon noodles.
- While the noodles are cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of sesame oil and allow it to shimmer.
- Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet and sauté for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and become golden brown and slightly crispy at the edges.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining sesame oil, soy sauce, and rice vinegar to create the sauce.
- Once the noodles are cooked, drain them in a colander, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water if needed to help the sauce coat the noodles.
- Return the noodles to the pot and pour the prepared sauce over them. Toss gently to ensure even coating, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce seems too thick.
- Add the sautéed mushrooms to the noodles and mix gently to combine.
- Transfer the noodles to serving plates and garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
- Serve immediately while the noodles are hot and the mushrooms are still warm.
Tips
- Mushroom Magic: For the best flavor, use fresh mushrooms and don't overcrowd the pan. This ensures they brown beautifully instead of steaming.
- Sauce Secrets: Whisk your sauce thoroughly to blend the sesame oil, soy sauce, and rice vinegar completely for a smooth, balanced flavor.
- Pasta Water Trick: Always reserve a little pasta water. The starchy liquid helps the sauce cling to the noodles and creates a silkier texture.
- Timing is Key: Have all ingredients prepped before you start cooking. This quick recipe moves fast, and preparation prevents burning or overcooking.
- Garnish Generously: Fresh green onions and sesame seeds aren't just decoration - they add crucial texture and a pop of fresh flavor.
- Customize Easily: Feel free to add protein like tofu, chicken, or shrimp to make this a more substantial meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
