Sesame butter noodles are a delectable and easy-to-make dish that combines the nutty flavor of sesame with the richness of butter, creating a creamy and satisfying sauce for noodles. This recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner and can be customized with additional vegetables or proteins to suit your taste. Whether you’re a fan of Asian cuisine or simply looking for a comforting meal, these sesame butter noodles are sure to delight your palate.
Ingredients
For the Sesame Butter Noodles:
- 8 oz (225g) noodles (such as spaghetti or udon)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons tahini (sesame seed paste)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- Red pepper flakes, to taste (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Chopped green onions, for garnish
- Toasted sesame seeds, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
- Boil Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Sesame Butter Sauce
- Melt Butter: In a small saucepan or skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Add Tahini and Flavorings: Stir in the tahini (sesame seed paste), soy sauce (or tamari), rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey (or maple syrup), minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook, stirring constantly, for about 2-3 minutes until the sauce is smooth and well combined.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it out with a tablespoon or two of water.
Step 3: Combine Noodles and Sauce
- Mix Noodles and Sauce: Add the cooked and drained noodles to the skillet with the sesame butter sauce. Toss well to coat the noodles evenly with the sauce.
- Heat Through: Cook the noodles and sauce together for another 1-2 minutes over medium heat, stirring gently, until everything is heated through.
Step 4: Serve
- Serve Hot: Transfer the sesame butter noodles to serving plates or bowls.
- Garnish: Garnish with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for added flavor and texture.
Step 5: Enjoy
- Serve Immediately: Serve the sesame butter noodles immediately while hot. They can be enjoyed on their own as a main dish or paired with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.
Tips for Success
- Noodle Choice: Use your favorite type of noodles for this recipe, such as spaghetti, udon, soba, or even rice noodles for a gluten-free option.
- Vegetables or Proteins: Feel free to add cooked vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas, or proteins like grilled chicken, tofu, or shrimp to make the dish more substantial.
- Adjust Spiciness: Control the level of spiciness by adjusting the amount of red pepper flakes added to the sauce.
- Storage: Leftover sesame butter noodles can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
Conclusion
Sesame butter noodles are a quick and flavorful dish that brings together the nutty taste of sesame with the richness of butter and the tanginess of soy sauce. This recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit your preferences, making it a favorite for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Enjoy the creamy texture and delicious flavors of these sesame butter noodles as a satisfying meal any time of the year.