Zesty Lemongrass Garlic Noodles
Upgrade your weeknight dinner with these aromatic Thai-inspired noodles featuring fresh lemongrass, chili heat, and a punchy fish sauce glaze.
Preparation
Get these tasks done before you start cooking.
Before you start
How to Make Zesty Lemongrass Garlic Noodles
Total time: 25 min · Yields 2 servings
- 1
Prepare the Noodles
Soak the dried rice noodles in a bowl of very hot (not boiling) water for 8-10 minutes until flexible but still firm to the bite. Drain and toss with a drop of oil to prevent sticking.
- 2
Aromatic Infusion
Using a mortar and pestle or a small food processor, pound the minced lemongrass, garlic, ginger, and chilies into a coarse, fragrant paste.
- 3
Sauté the Paste
Heat the neutral oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add the aromatic paste and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is golden and the lemongrass smells floral.
- 4
The Stir-Fry
Add the drained noodles to the wok. Immediately pour in the fish sauce, soy sauce, and sugar. Toss vigorously using tongs or a spatula for 3 minutes until the noodles absorb the liquid and turn glossy.
- 5
Finishing Touches
Remove from heat. Stir in the lime juice and half of the cilantro. Garnish with crushed peanuts and extra lime wedges before serving.
Chef's Tips
- Do not over-soak the noodles; they should be slightly undercooked as they will finish softening in the wok.
- If you cannot find fresh lemongrass, use 1 tablespoon of lemongrass paste from a tube.
- Use a high-smoke point oil to ensure the garlic doesn't burn while stir-frying at high heat.
What to Serve with Zesty Lemongrass Garlic Noodles
The garlic butter sauce is the star — pick sides that soak it up or balance the richness.
- Serve alongside a crisp green papaya salad.
- Add a fried egg on top for extra richness.
- Pair with a cold Thai iced tea to balance the heat.
Frequently asked questions
Can I make this vegan?
Yes! Replace the fish sauce with a vegan 'no-fish' sauce or additional light soy sauce and a pinch of salt.
What protein can I add?
Shrimp, thinly sliced chicken breast, or firm tofu cubes work exceptionally well. Sear them before adding the aromatics.
You might also love
Browse all recipes
Sheet Pan Shrimp Boil with Old Bay
Thai Drunken Noodles (Pad Kee Mao)
Balsamic Glazed Steak Skewers with Blackberry Relish
Fiery Drunkard's Pad Kee Mao
Mango Habanero Glazed Chicken Wings
Lemon Herb Chimichurri Shrimp with Harissa Orzo
Explore more from TastyFood
Looking for something different? Browse by category.