Cheesy Kimchi Noodles
Instant ramen ranks highly among comfort foods because it can be quickly prepared and those little seasoning packets provide lots of flavor with minimal effort. No packets are used in this recipe, but the addition of gooey, melted Cheddar and funky fermented kimchi makes the dish even more satisfying. Sautéed scallions and garlic balance out the spicy Sriracha, soy and sesame sauce, while the runny yolk from a crispy fried egg adds richness and mellows the spice. The cheese becomes sticky as it cools, so these noodles are best served immediately while still warm and glossy.
- Total:
- Serves: 2 persons
Ingredients
- 6ounces dried instant noodles (see Tip)
- 1 ½tablespoons canola oil, plus more for coating cooked noodles
- 2eggs
- 5scallions, thinly sliced on the diagonal (reserve 1 tablespoon for garnish)
- ½(packed) cup kimchi, sliced
- 3garlic cloves, peeled and finely chopped
- 1tablespoon black (or white) sesame seeds, plus more for garnish
- ½cup grated Cheddar
- 2tablespoons Sriracha
- 1to 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1tablespoon sesame oil
- 1tablespoon Shaoxing wine
Instructions
Step 1
Bring a medium saucepan of water to a boil over high. Add the noodles and cook according to the package instructions until tender but still springy, about 2 to 3 minutes. Transfer to a colander and rinse in cold water until cool, then toss with a splash of canola oil to prevent the noodles from sticking together. Set cooked noodles aside.Step 2
Meanwhile, prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk the Sriracha, soy sauce, sesame oil and Shaoxing wine; set aside.Step 3
Set a medium nonstick skillet over high heat. Add ½ tablespoon canola oil and, once shimmering, crack in the eggs. Reduce the heat to medium and cook until the whites are done and the edges are browned, 2 to 3 minutes. Transfer to a plate.Step 4
In the same skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon canola oil over medium-high. Add the scallions, kimchi, garlic and sesame seeds, and cook for 1 minute until just softened, stirring frequently. Add the noodles and sauce, and toss to combine for 1 minute. Stir in the grated cheese until it melts. Turn off the heat.Step 5
Transfer the noodles to serving plates, top with the fried eggs and garnish with extra sesame seeds and scallions. Serve immediately.