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, and 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 a cozy evening at home, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish takes only 20 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for those hectic days.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of gochujang, garlic, and coconut milk results in a rich and spicy broth that’s bursting with flavor.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one pot, allowing you to enjoy your meal without the hassle of washing multiple dishes.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this recipe with your favorite noodles or vegetables to suit your taste preferences.
• Healthy Comfort Food: Rich in nutrients and full of wholesome ingredients, these noodles provide a satisfying yet healthy meal option.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Quick Spicy Coconut Noodles, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure smooth preparation. Having the right equipment will make the cooking process quicker and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large saucepan
• Measuring spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large saucepan: Ideal for cooking everything in one pot while allowing ample space for ingredients to simmer together.
• Measuring spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient measurements for consistent flavor each time you prepare this dish.

Ingredients

For the Sauce

• 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)

For the Broth

• 1 lemongrass stalk, crushed and chopped into 3 pieces (or use 1 tablespoon of lemongrass paste)
• 14oz/400ml can of coconut milk (look for a coconut extract level above 60%)
• 5 cups/1.2 litres vegetable or chicken stock

For the Noodles and Vegetables

• 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

How to Make Quick Spicy Coconut Noodles

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Set a large saucepan over medium heat and add:
1. 2 tablespoons of gochujang paste.
2. 1 tablespoon soy sauce.
3. 2 teaspoons fish sauce (or vegan alternative).
4. 2 tablespoons chili oil.

Stir for a minute or two until combined. Then add:
1. 2 crushed garlic cloves.
2. 1 tablespoon grated ginger.

Cook while stirring for another minute.

Step 2: Create the Broth

Pour in:
1. The can of coconut milk.
2. The crushed lemongrass stalk pieces.
3. The vegetable or chicken stock.

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

Step 3: Cook the Noodles

Add your chosen noodles directly into the broth:
1. Stir them in gently.
2. Let them cook according to package instructions, typically around four minutes.

Once they’re cooked through:
1. Add the sliced pak choi.
2. Stir through the broth for about a minute until they look bright green.

Remove the pot from heat.

Step 4: Serve Up Your Dish

Divide the saucy noodles and pak choi between bowls:
1. Spoon lots of the lovely sauce into each bowl.
2. Squeeze a wedge of lime over each serving.
3. Top with finely sliced scallions and cilantro leaves.

Finish with an extra drizzle of chili oil if desired and serve with additional lime wedges on the side.

Enjoy your delicious Quick Spicy Coconut Noodles!

How to Serve Quick Spicy Coconut Noodles

Serving Quick Spicy Coconut Noodles is all about enhancing their delicious flavors and adding fresh elements. Here are some fun serving suggestions to elevate your dish.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Cilantro: Sprinkle a handful of cilantro leaves for a refreshing touch that enhances the overall flavor.
• Basil: Thai basil can add a fragrant, slightly spicy note that complements the coconut nicely.

Include Extra Lime

• Lime Wedges: Serve additional lime wedges on the side for guests to squeeze over their noodles, adding brightness and acidity.

Top with Crunchy Elements

• Toasted Nuts: Consider adding toasted peanuts or cashews for a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy broth.
• Fried Shallots: These crispy bits add a savory crunch and depth of flavor.

Pair with a Side Salad

• Asian Slaw: A simple slaw with cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing offers a refreshing balance to the rich noodles.

Serve in Bowls

• Deep Bowls: Use deep bowls when serving your noodles; this keeps the broth contained and makes it easier to enjoy every last drop!

How to Perfect Quick Spicy Coconut Noodles

Perfecting your Quick Spicy Coconut Noodles takes just a few simple steps. Follow these tips for an even more delightful dish.

• Bold Flavors: Use high-quality gochujang paste for richer spice notes. The key to great flavor is in the quality of your ingredients!
• Customize Your Noodles: Try different types of noodles like udon or rice noodles based on your preference—they each bring unique textures.
• Adjust Spice Levels: If you love heat, feel free to increase the chili oil or add fresh sliced chilies for an extra kick.
• Let It Simmer: Allowing the broth to simmer longer helps meld the flavors together beautifully—just be mindful not to overcook any ingredients.
• Use Fresh Produce: Fresh pak choi and scallions enhance texture and flavor; use them when they are at their freshest for the best results.

Best Side Dishes for Quick Spicy Coconut Noodles

Pairing side dishes with Quick Spicy Coconut Noodles can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options.

1. Spring Rolls: Light and crispy, these rolls filled with vegetables or shrimp make a perfect appetizer.
2. Edamame: Steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt provides protein and is easy to prepare.
3. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad made with thinly sliced cucumbers tossed in rice vinegar adds crunch and acidity.
4. Stir-Fried Vegetables: Colorful stir-fried mixed vegetables brighten up your plate and complement the noodles’ flavors well.
5. Miso Soup: A light miso soup can work as a warm starter, enhancing that comforting Asian cuisine vibe.
6. Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado on whole-grain toast adds richness while being simple to prepare alongside your meal.
7. Kimchi: This fermented dish brings spice and tanginess, making it an exciting contrast to creamy noodles.
8. Vegetable Tempura: Crispy tempura vegetables offer crunch and can be easily shared among diners!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Quick Spicy Coconut Noodles can be a breeze, but there are common mistakes that can affect the outcome.

• Ignoring noodle cooking times: Different noodles have different cooking times. Always check the package for guidance to ensure they are perfectly cooked.
• Overcooking the vegetables: Adding the pak choi too early can make it mushy. Add it in the last minute of cooking to keep it vibrant and crisp.
• Skipping the lime juice: The lime juice is essential for balancing flavors. Don’t skip it; squeeze fresh lime over each bowl for an extra zing!
• Using low-quality coconut milk: Not all coconut milk is created equal. Choose a brand with a high coconut extract level (above 60%) for the best creaminess.
• Not adjusting spice levels: If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of gochujang and chili oil. Always taste as you go to find your perfect balance.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Quick Spicy Coconut Noodles

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container as liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating Quick Spicy Coconut Noodles

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place noodles in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil, heating until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place noodles in a microwave-safe bowl, add a splash of stock or water, then cover and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a saucepan, stirring often. Add broth if needed to loosen up the noodles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Quick Spicy Coconut Noodles.

Can I use gluten-free noodles for Quick Spicy Coconut Noodles?

Yes! Feel free to use gluten-free noodles like rice noodles or buckwheat soba.

How do I make Quick Spicy Coconut Noodles vegetarian?

Simply replace any animal-based ingredients like fish sauce with vegan alternatives such as more soy sauce or miso paste.

Can I customize the spice level in Quick Spicy Coconut Noodles?

Absolutely! Adjust the amount of gochujang and chili oil based on your preferred spice level.

What types of vegetables can I add to Quick Spicy Coconut Noodles?

You can add bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for extra flavor and nutrients.

Final Thoughts

Quick Spicy Coconut Noodles offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures that make them an excellent meal choice for any day. They’re versatile too; feel free to customize them with your favorite veggies or proteins. Try making this recipe today, and enjoy a bowl of cozy comfort food!

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: Aileen
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Looking for a quick and satisfying meal that packs a flavorful punch? These Quick Spicy Coconut Noodles are your answer! Ready in just 20 minutes, this one-pot dish combines creamy coconut milk with spicy gochujang and fresh vegetables for a comforting bowl of goodness. Perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely evenings at home, this recipe is not only easy to make but also highly customizable with your favorite noodles and veggies. Enjoy a nourishing and delicious meal that will become a staple in your kitchen!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 tablespoons gochujang paste
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons chili oil (plus more to serve)
• 2 garlic cloves, crushed
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 1 lemongrass stalk, crushed and chopped into 3 pieces (or 1 tablespoon 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, finely sliced
• Handful of cilantro leaves
• 1 lime, sliced into wedges

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Instructions

1. In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine gochujang, soy sauce, chili oil, garlic, and ginger. Stir for 2 minutes.
2. Add the coconut milk, lemongrass, and stock; bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the noodles and cook according to package instructions (about 4 minutes). Add pak choi in the last minute.
4. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro and lime wedges.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 350g)
• Calories: 405
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 13g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 54g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 0mg