These Sweet Thai Chili Ramen Noodles are a delicious blend of sweet and spicy flavors that come together quickly. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a speedy lunch!
I love how easy they are to whip up, and the flavor is incredible! Just add your favorite veggies, and you’ve got a tasty bowl that feels like a little taste of Thailand. 🍜
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ramen Noodles: Instant ramen noodles are quick and convenient. If you want a healthier option, try whole wheat or rice noodles. You can even use udon for a chewier texture!
Sweet Potato or Carrot: These veggies bring sweetness and nutrition. If you don’t have them, bell peppers or snap peas work great. They cook quickly and add color!
Spinach or Basil: Both add freshness. If you can’t find them, substitute with kale or arugula. Fresh herbs like cilantro or mint can bring a nice twist.
Sweet Thai Chili Sauce: This is key for flavor! You can use a homemade mix of equal parts sugar and hot sauce for a quick alternative. Just taste and adjust to your liking!
Hoisin Sauce: It adds sweetness and depth; however, if you prefer a lighter taste, you can skip it. A bit of peanut butter in the sauce can also give a touch of creaminess.
How Do I Make the Perfect Sauce for My Noodles?
Creating a great sauce ensures your ramen is full of flavor. Here’s how to make sure it’s just right:
- Combine sweet Thai chili sauce, soy sauce, hoisin sauce (if using), rice vinegar, and chili flakes in a bowl.
- Taste and adjust the balance—add more chili for heat or more chili sauce for sweetness. Don’t be afraid to experiment!
- If the sauce is too thick, use a little of the reserved noodle water to thin it out.
Mix this sauce into the noodles while they’re hot for best flavor absorption. Enjoy your cooking process and adapt the sauce to your taste! 🥢
Sweet Thai Chili Ramen Noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 packs of instant ramen noodles (discard seasoning packets)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup diced sweet potato or carrot (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped spinach or fresh basil
- 1/4 cup sweet Thai chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional for extra sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar or lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup chopped scallions or cilantro for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Water as required for boiling noodles
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare, plus a few minutes for cooking. In no time, you’ll have a warm, satisfying bowl of sweet Thai chili ramen noodles to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Boil the Noodles and Veggies:
Start by bringing a pot of water to a boil. Once boiling, add the diced sweet potato or carrot and cook for about 5 minutes or until they are tender. Next, add the ramen noodles to the pot and cook according to the package instructions (usually around 3 minutes). After they are cooked, drain the noodles but make sure to reserve about 1/2 cup of the cooking water for later use.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds, or until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
3. Combine Noodles and Veggies:
Now, add the cooked noodles along with the sweet potato or carrot to the skillet with the garlic. Stir everything together to combine well and get that delicious garlic flavor mixed in.
4. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the sweet Thai chili sauce, soy sauce, hoisin sauce (if using), rice vinegar or lime juice, and chili flakes. This mix will give your noodles a sweet and spicy flavor!
5. Mix in the Sauce:
Pour the sauce over the noodles in the skillet. If you need to loosen it up a bit, add a splash of that reserved noodle cooking water. Toss everything together gently until the noodles and veggies are well-coated in the sauce. Yum!
6. Add the Greens:
Next, stir in the chopped spinach or basil leaves and let them wilt slightly with the heat of the noodles—this will make your dish even more delicious!
7. Cook the Eggs:
In a separate frying pan, cook the eggs sunny side up or your favorite style. Lightly season with salt and pepper while they cook.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Divide the noodles into bowls and top each serving with a cooked egg. Garnish with chopped scallions or cilantro, and if desired, add extra chili flakes or sweet chili sauce for an extra flavorful kick. Enjoy every bite of your Sweet Thai Chili Ramen Noodles!
Happy cooking! 🍜
Can I Use Other Types of Noodles?
Absolutely! While instant ramen noodles are quick and easy, you can substitute with whole wheat noodles, udon, or rice noodles. Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on the noodle type.
What Can I Substitute for Sweet Thai Chili Sauce?
If you don’t have sweet Thai chili sauce, you can mix equal parts sugar and hot sauce or use a homemade sauce with honey, soy sauce, and a pinch of chili flakes for a similar sweet and spicy profile!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?
Yes! Feel free to toss in your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli. Just make sure to cook them until tender before adding the noodles for a great texture.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to loosen up the noodles, and heat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
