Chewy, fresh udon noodles, rich sesame paste, and tangy black vinegar mix and mingle in this savory, nutty Sesame Noodles recipe. It’s quick and easy to make with heavy-hitting Chinese pantry staples, and it shines beautifully as either a side or a main dish.
– Scallions – Fresh udon noodles – Ginger – Garlic – Chinese roasted sesame paste – Chinese light soy sauce – Dark soy sauce – Agave nectar – Chinese black vinegar – Toasted sesame oil – Chili-garlic sauce or sambal oelek – Shelled edamame – Kosher salt – Red/orange bell pepper – Napa or savoy cabbage – English cucumber – Roasted peanuts – White or black sesame seeds
Bring a pot of water to a boil for the noodles. While you wait, prep the mix-in ingredients (e.g., scallions, veggies, peanuts, edamame). Cook the noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, reserve some noodle water, then drain the noodles and rinse with cold water.
Add the noodles to a large bowl and the sesame sauce to coat. Toss to coat, adding a few splashes of reserved noodle water as needed to coat the noodles and make everything saucy.
Add the scallions, vegetables of choice, edamame, sesame seeds, and peanuts. Toss well to combine, garnish as desired, and enjoy.