Can I use a different type of noodle?

Absolutely. Spaghetti, linguine, instant ramen noodles, or even soba all work well here. Just cook them according to the packet and drain well before adding to the pan. The sauce sticks to pretty much any noodle.

How spicy is this dish?

That is completely up to you. The recipe uses a moderate amount of chili flakes but you can use as little or as much as you like. If you are cooking for kids or people who do not like heat, just leave the flakes out entirely. The garlic sauce on its own is still really tasty.

Is this recipe actually budget friendly?

Very much so. The main ingredients, dried noodles, garlic, soy sauce, and an egg, typically cost well under two dollars per serving depending on where you shop. It is one of those meals that genuinely helps when things are tight at the end of the month.

Can I make this without soy sauce?

You can try tamari for a gluten-free option and it works almost identically. Coconut aminos are another swap, though they are a little sweeter, so you might want to add a tiny pinch of salt as well to balance it out.

10-Minute Spicy Garlic Noodles | Cheap Pantry Dinner

Name: 10-Minute Spicy Garlic Noodles with Pantry Staples
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 2
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 200g (7 oz) dried rice noodles; 4 cloves garlic, finely minced; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon neutral oil (vegetable or sunflower); 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 1/2 teaspoon dried chili flakes, or to taste; 1 teaspoon sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 spring onions (scallions), sliced, for serving; 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds, optional

1

Soak the Noodles

Place the dried rice noodles in a large bowl and cover with boiling water. Let them soak for 4 to 5 minutes until just tender but still with a little bite. Drain well and set aside.

2

Mix the Sauce

In a small bowl stir together the soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and chili flakes. Set aside so it is ready to pour in quickly once the garlic is done.

3

Cook the Garlic

Heat the neutral oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 60 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant and just starting to turn golden. Do not let it brown too much or it will turn bitter.

4

Add the Eggs

Crack both eggs directly into the pan with the garlic and scramble them quickly, breaking them up with a spatula. Cook for about 30 seconds until mostly set but still a little soft.

5

Toss in the Noodles

Add the drained noodles to the pan and pour the sauce over the top. Toss everything together using tongs or a fork for about a minute until the noodles are evenly coated and heated through.

6