Easy Chinese Noodle Recipes: A Step-by-Step Guide

Right, so you're looking for some easy Chinese noodle recipes, eh? Well, you've come to the right place, mate! I've been a massive fan of Chinese food for years, and noodles are a big part of that. I remember the first time I had a bowl of steaming hot noodles, the broth was so flavorful, and the noodles were just the right amount of chewy. I was hooked. Over the years, I've tried loads of different recipes and I've even learned to make a few myself. And let me tell you, it's actually easier than you think!

You don't need to be a Michelin-starred chef to whip up a delicious noodle dish. With a few basic ingredients and a bit of know-how, you can have a tasty and satisfying meal on the table in no time. I'm going to guide you through some of my favourite recipes, step-by-step, so even if you're a total cooking newbie, you can nail it. So, grab your apron, let's get started!

(Part 1) The Basics: Noodle Choices and Sauces

Noodle Choices, Mate!

First things first, we need to talk noodles. You've got a whole world of options out there. The most popular ones you'll find in the supermarket are:

• Egg Noodles: These are the most common noodles you'll find, and they're incredibly versatile. They're made with wheat flour and eggs, which gives them a nice, bouncy texture. You can use them in soups, stir-fries, salads, or even as a side dish.
• Ramen: This is the king of Japanese noodles, and it's becoming increasingly popular in the UK too. It’s a bit thicker and chewier than egg noodles, and it comes in a variety of flavours. You'll often find them in instant noodle packs, but fresh ramen is also available in Asian supermarkets. It's perfect for ramen bowls, but you can also use it in stir-fries.
• Udon: These are thick, chewy noodles, usually made from wheat flour. They’re super popular in Japanese cuisine, and they’re great for soaking up flavours. They're often used in soups, but you can also find them in cold noodle salads.
• rice noodles: These are made from rice flour and are super delicate and light. They’re commonly used in Southeast Asian cuisine, and they work well in stir-fries and salads. Their light texture makes them a good choice for lighter dishes.

Sauces: The Secret Weapon

Now, sauces are the key to making your noodles truly sing. There’s a whole universe of sauces you can use, but for easy recipes, I recommend starting with these classics:

• Soy Sauce: The base of most Chinese sauces, soy sauce adds a salty, umami flavour to your dish. It's a good all-rounder and can be used in both soups and stir-fries.
• Oyster Sauce: This sauce is made from oyster extract and it gives your noodles a rich, savoury flavour. It's particularly good for stir-fries and adds a depth of flavour to dishes with seafood.
• Hoisin Sauce: A thick, sweet and savory sauce with a slightly nutty flavor, perfect for stir-fries. It adds a sweet and tangy note to stir-fries and works well with chicken or pork.
• Sesame Oil: This oil adds a nutty flavour and fragrance to your noodles. It's a great finishing touch for stir-fries and salads and adds a subtle nutty flavour.
• Chili Oil: For those who like a little heat, chili oil is a must-have. It adds a spicy kick to your dishes. You can adjust the heat level to your liking by adding more or less chili oil.

When choosing sauces, remember that you can always adjust the flavour to your liking. If you find a dish too salty, add a bit of sugar. If it's too bland, add a dash of soy sauce or oyster sauce. Don't be afraid to experiment and find what works for you!

(Part 2) Easy Noodle Soup Recipes: Comfort in a Bowl

Who doesn’t love a comforting bowl of noodle soup on a chilly day? You can make a simple and delicious soup in under 30 minutes!

1. Classic chicken noodle soup

This is a classic for a reason. It's simple, comforting, and perfect for a cold day.

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
• 1/2 cup egg noodles
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. You want the vegetables to be tender, but not browned.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Make sure the broth simmers gently, but not furiously.
4. Reduce heat to low, add the chicken and simmer for 10 minutes. This allows the chicken to infuse its flavour into the broth.
5. Add the noodles and cook until tender, about 5 minutes. Follow the instructions on the package for the specific noodle type you are using.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Start with a little salt and pepper, and adjust as needed.
7. Serve hot! Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

This recipe is super adaptable. You can add other vegetables, like chopped spinach or mushrooms, to the soup. You can also use different types of noodles, such as ramen or udon.

2. Spicy Beef Noodle Soup

For those who like it a little hotter, this recipe packs a punch with chili garlic sauce. The beef broth is rich and flavorful, and the chili garlic sauce adds a kick of spice.

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (14.5 oz) can beef broth
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1 tbsp chili garlic sauce
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup egg noodles
• Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking up any large clumps. You want the beef to be cooked through, but not overcooked.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, soy sauce, chili garlic sauce, ginger, and pepper. The chili garlic sauce adds a fiery kick to the broth. You can adjust the amount depending on your spice tolerance.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the broth to thicken slightly.
6. Add the noodles and cook until tender, about 5 minutes. Cook the noodles according to package instructions to ensure they're perfectly cooked.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot. The green onions add a fresh, vibrant touch to the soup. You can also garnish with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of chopped cilantro.

You can substitute the ground beef with other meats, such as chicken or pork. You can also add other vegetables to the soup, such as chopped bell peppers or broccoli.

(Part 3) Quick and Easy Noodle Stir-fries: Perfect for Weeknights

Need a meal on the table fast? Noodle stir-fries are your best bet! These recipes are all about quick cooking and big flavour.

1. Classic Chicken Stir-Fry

This stir-fry is a classic for a reason. It's simple, flavorful, and comes together quickly. You can use any type of noodles you like, but egg noodles are a good choice for their versatility.

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup cooked chicken, sliced
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1/2 cup egg noodles

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. A wok is ideal for stir-frying, but a large skillet will work just fine.
2. Add the onion, bell pepper, and broccoli and cook until tender-crisp, about 5 minutes. You want the vegetables to be slightly crunchy, not mushy.
3. Add the chicken and cook for another 2 minutes. Cook the chicken until it's heated through.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil. This sauce adds a sweet and savory flavour to the stir-fry.
5. Pour the sauce over the vegetables and chicken and cook until the sauce thickens slightly, about 1 minute. The sauce should coat the ingredients evenly, but not become too thick.
6. Add the noodles and toss to coat. The noodles should be heated through and coated with the sauce.
7. Serve immediately. Enjoy the fresh flavours of this simple yet satisfying stir-fry.

You can add other vegetables to this stir-fry, such as mushrooms, snow peas, or bean sprouts. You can also use a different protein, such as shrimp, tofu, or beef.

2. Shrimp and Vegetable Stir-Fry

This stir-fry is a great option if you're looking for a light and flavorful meal. The shrimp cooks quickly and adds a delicate flavour to the dish. You can use rice noodles, which work well with the light flavours of the shrimp and vegetables.

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 cup peeled and deveined shrimp
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup snow peas
• 1/2 cup oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1/2 tsp ginger, grated
• 1/4 cup rice noodles

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Use a wok for best results, but a large skillet will work just as well.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 2 minutes. Cook the shrimp until it's just cooked through and slightly opaque. Overcooking will make it tough.
3. Add the onion, bell pepper, and snow peas and cook until tender-crisp, about 5 minutes. Cook the vegetables until they're tender but still have a slight crunch.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the oyster sauce, soy sauce, and ginger. This sauce adds a rich and umami flavor to the stir-fry.
5. Pour the sauce over the vegetables and shrimp and cook until the sauce thickens slightly, about 1 minute. The sauce should coat the ingredients evenly and thicken slightly.
6. Add the rice noodles and toss to coat. Make sure the noodles are heated through and coated with the sauce.
7. Serve immediately. Enjoy the fresh and flavorful flavours of this delicious stir-fry.

You can add other vegetables to this stir-fry, such as mushrooms, broccoli, or carrots. You can also use a different protein, such as chicken, tofu, or pork.

(Part 4) Noodle Salads: A Lighter Option

Looking for something a bit lighter? Noodle salads are a fantastic option! They're packed with fresh vegetables and a tangy dressing, and they're perfect for a summer picnic or a light lunch.

1. Asian Noodle Salad

This noodle salad is light, refreshing, and packed with flavour. It's perfect for a summer lunch or a light dinner. You can use rice noodles, which are delicate and light, or egg noodles, which have a slightly chewier texture.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked rice noodles
• 1 cup shredded cabbage
• 1/2 cup chopped carrots
• 1/4 cup chopped red onion
• 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
• 1/4 cup roasted peanuts
• Dressing:
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp sesame seeds

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the rice noodles, cabbage, carrots, red onion, and cilantro. The vegetables should be finely chopped or shredded for a more balanced salad.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, and sesame seeds. The dressing adds a tangy and sweet flavour to the salad.
3. Pour the dressing over the noodles and vegetables and toss to coat. Make sure the dressing is evenly distributed throughout the salad.
4. Top with the peanuts and serve chilled. The peanuts add a crunchy texture and nutty flavour to the salad.

You can add other vegetables to this salad, such as bean sprouts, cucumbers, or bell peppers. You can also add a protein, such as cooked chicken, tofu, or shrimp.

2. Spicy Peanut Noodle Salad

This noodle salad is a bit spicier than the Asian Noodle Salad, thanks to the addition of chili garlic sauce. The peanut dressing is creamy and flavorful, and the chili garlic sauce adds a kick of heat. Egg noodles are a good choice for this salad as they hold up well to the dressing and have a nice chewy texture.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked egg noodles
• 1 cup shredded red cabbage
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 1/4 cup chopped red onion
• 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
• Peanut Dressing:
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp chili garlic sauce
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the egg noodles, red cabbage, celery, and red onion. The vegetables should be finely chopped or shredded for a more balanced salad.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, chili garlic sauce, and water until smooth. The dressing should be creamy and smooth, with a good balance of sweet, salty, and spicy flavors.
3. Pour the dressing over the noodles and vegetables and toss to coat. Make sure the dressing is evenly distributed throughout the salad.
4. Garnish with cilantro and serve chilled. The cilantro adds a fresh and vibrant touch to the salad.

You can add other vegetables to this salad, such as bell peppers, carrots, or bean sprouts. You can also add a protein, such as cooked chicken, tofu, or shrimp.

(Part 5) Exploring Regional Noodle Dishes: A culinary adventure

Now, let’s go on a little culinary adventure and explore some regional noodle dishes. Each region in China has its own unique noodle dishes and flavours, and they’re all worth trying.

1. Lanzhou Hand-Pulled Noodles (拉面, Lāmiàn)

These are famous for their chewy texture and the impressive way they’re made. The noodles are literally pulled by hand, creating long, thin strands. It’s a real spectacle to watch! The broth is usually made with beef or lamb and is flavoured with spices like star anise and cinnamon. The result is a hearty and flavorful noodle soup that's unique to Lanzhou. You can often find these noodles at specialized Lanzhou noodle restaurants in cities with large Chinese populations.

2. Dan Dan Noodles (担担面, Dàndànmiàn)

These Sichuan-style noodles are super flavorful and a bit spicy. They’re served with a rich, nutty sauce made with ground pork, sesame paste, and chili oil. It’s a real taste explosion! The combination of savoury pork, creamy sesame paste, and spicy chili oil creates a symphony of flavors. You can find Dan Dan noodles at many Chinese restaurants, especially those specializing in Sichuan cuisine.

3. Shanghai Noodles (上海面, Shànghǎimiàn)

These noodles are a staple in Shanghai. They are typically served with a sweet and savory sauce made with soy sauce, sugar, and pork broth. They’re often topped with chopped green onions and pickled ginger, which adds a nice tangy flavour. The sweetness of the sauce and the tanginess of the ginger make for a delicious and balanced flavor combination. These noodles are a great example of Shanghai's unique culinary style.

While these regional noodle dishes might seem intimidating to make at home, there are many recipes online and in cookbooks that can guide you through the process. Don't be afraid to try something new and explore the world of Chinese noodles!

(Part 6) Making Your Own Noodles: The DIY Challenge

Alright, are you ready for a real challenge? Let’s try making our own noodles! Don’t worry, it’s easier than you think, and the satisfaction of creating your own noodles is unbeatable.

1. Homemade Egg Noodles: The Basics

Making your own noodles is a great way to personalize your dishes. You can control the ingredients and texture, and it's surprisingly easy. Here's a simple recipe for homemade egg noodles. The key to making good egg noodles is to knead the dough well. This will help to develop the gluten, resulting in noodles with a nice chew.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp water (if needed)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. The salt helps to enhance the flavor of the noodles. You can also add a pinch of sugar for a slightly sweeter taste.
2. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture. This will create a small indentation in the center of the flour.
3. Crack the eggs into the well and whisk them lightly. The eggs will bind the flour together and create a soft and elastic dough.
4. Gradually incorporate the flour into the eggs, using a fork or your fingers. Start by mixing the flour into the eggs with a fork, then use your fingers to bring the dough together. It's important not to overmix the dough at this stage.
5. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Kneading the dough develops the gluten, which gives the noodles their chew. If the dough is too dry, add a tablespoon of water at a time until it's smooth and pliable.
6. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes. Resting the dough allows the gluten to relax, resulting in softer and more pliable noodles.
7. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of 1/8 inch. You can use a rolling pin or a pasta machine to roll out the dough. It's important to roll out the dough evenly so that all the noodles cook at the same rate.
8. Cut the dough into strips, about 1/2 inch wide. You can use a knife or a pasta cutter to cut the dough. The width of the noodles will determine their thickness.
9. Cook the noodles in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, until tender. Cook the noodles until they are al dente, which means they should be slightly firm to the bite. Overcooked noodles will be mushy.
10. Drain and serve as desired. Enjoy your freshly made egg noodles!

2. Tips for Perfect Noodles

• Don’t overwork the dough: Overworking the dough will make it tough. The more you knead the dough, the more gluten develops, which can make the noodles tough. Knead the dough until it's smooth and elastic, but don't overwork it.
• Let the dough rest: Resting allows the gluten to relax, making the noodles more tender. The gluten will relax as the dough rests, resulting in softer and more pliable noodles.
• Roll out evenly: Make sure the dough is rolled out to an even thickness for consistent noodles. If the dough is rolled out unevenly, some noodles will cook faster than others, resulting in a mix of textures.
• Don’t overcrowd the pot: Give the noodles plenty of room to cook evenly. If the pot is overcrowded, the noodles will stick together and won't cook evenly. Add the noodles to the boiling water in small batches, making sure there is plenty of space between them.

(Part 7) Noodle Storage and Leftover Magic

Now, you’ve got your delicious noodles, but what do you do with leftovers? Don’t throw them away! You can easily store your cooked noodles and transform them into another delicious meal.

1. Storing Your Noodles

Proper storage is key to keeping your cooked noodles fresh and delicious. Here's how to store cooked noodles:

• Store cooked noodles in the fridge: Put them in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Refrigerated noodles will stay fresh for a few days, but they will start to lose their texture after that. Be sure to remove as much air as possible from the container before sealing it to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for longer storage: You can freeze cooked noodles for up to 3 months. Just place them in a freezer-safe bag and remove as much air as possible before sealing. Frozen noodles will maintain their texture and flavor for several months. Before using frozen noodles, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or by placing them in a bowl of cold water for about an hour.

2. Leftover Noodle Transformations

Leftover noodles are like blank canvases, ready to be transformed into something new and exciting. Here are a few ideas:

• Noodle Salad: Combine your leftover noodles with chopped vegetables, a tangy dressing, and some toasted nuts or seeds. You can add a variety of vegetables, such as shredded cabbage, carrots, cucumbers, or bell peppers. For a tangy dressing, try a mix of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Toasted nuts or seeds, such as peanuts or sesame seeds, add a nice crunch to the salad.
• Stir-fry: Toss your noodles with some vegetables, meat, or tofu and a flavorful sauce for a quick and easy meal. You can use any vegetables you like, but broccoli, bell peppers, and onions are a good choice for stir-fries. For the sauce, try a mix of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and honey. Add a protein, such as chicken, shrimp, tofu, or beef, for a more substantial meal.
• Noodle Soup: Add your leftover noodles to a simple broth for a comforting and hearty soup. You can use chicken broth, vegetable broth, or beef broth. Add some vegetables, such as carrots, celery, and spinach, for a more filling soup.
• Pasta Bake: Combine your noodles with a creamy sauce, cheese, and vegetables and bake in the oven for a cheesy and satisfying dish. You can use any creamy sauce you like, such as alfredo sauce, béchamel sauce, or a cheese sauce. Add some vegetables, such as broccoli, mushrooms, or spinach, for a more substantial bake. Top with cheese and bake in the oven until golden brown and bubbly.

(Part 8) Tips for Cooking Success

Ready to cook up a storm? Here are a few tips to make your noodle dishes extra delicious:

• Don’t overcook the noodles: Overcooked noodles will be mushy and unpleasant. Cook them according to the package instructions or until they are al dente. Al dente means the noodles should be slightly firm to the bite.
• Use a wok or large skillet: This will allow the noodles to cook evenly and prevent them from sticking together. A wok is ideal for stir-frying, but a large skillet will work just as well. Make sure the pan is hot before adding the noodles.
• Don’t be afraid to experiment: Have fun with different vegetables, meats, and sauces. There are endless possibilities! Try different combinations of vegetables, proteins, and sauces to find your own favorite recipes.
• Taste and adjust: Remember, you can always add more sauce, seasoning, or chili oil to your noodles to suit your taste. Start with a small amount of seasoning and add more as needed. Taste the noodles as you cook them to make sure they are seasoned to your liking.

FAQs

You’ve got questions, I’ve got answers! Here are a few things people often ask about making Chinese noodles:

I hope this guide has given you the confidence to try out some delicious Chinese noodle recipes! Remember, cooking is all about having fun and getting creative in the kitchen. So, don’t be afraid to experiment and find your own favourite combinations. Happy cooking!