Noodles need the right partner to truly shine on your dinner table. You can skip the bottled stuff from the grocery store because homemade versions are actually super easy.
These 12 recipes range from garlicky to umami rich and cover every craving you might have.
1. Chow Mein Sauce
You can achieve restaurant quality status right in your own kitchen with the proper ratios. Shaoxing wine acts as the key component because it is a Chinese cuisine staple.
Just make sure you grab a legitimate oyster sauce since some brands pack in way too much sugar. The recipe works perfectly with juicy chicken or other proteins like shrimp and beef strips.
2. Garlic Sauce
This option offers incredible range for both Italian and Asian noodle dishes. It hits every note from umami and sweet to buttery and savory.
I love adding it to delicate angel hair pasta or thick lo mein noodles. You can pair it with caramelized onions for spaghetti or throw in colorful veggies and tofu for an Asian twist.
3. Sesame Peanut Sauce
This sesame peanut creation is a pure heavenly delight. It feels indulgent while actually staying somewhat healthy.
The bulk of the flavor comes from peanut butter mixed with sesame oil and Sriracha. It uses coconut sugar for natural sweetness and might just become your new top pick.
4. Soy Sauce
You might be surprised to learn that soy sauce comes in dark, light, thick, and sweet varieties. This foolproof recipe combines both light and dark versions with fish sauce for maximum flavor.
It is definitely better than just dumping plain condiments on your instant noodles. I love using it to upgrade all sorts of different Asian dishes.
5. Thai Red Curry Sauce
Thai red curry happens to be my personal favorite variety. This recipe creates a perfect balance for your next noodle bowl.
You make it using red curry paste mixed with rich coconut milk and ginger. It also includes unique additions like tomato paste and maple syrup that totally work together.
6. Teriyaki Sauce
Homemade teriyaki tastes super fresh and lacks all those store bought preservatives. It might seem daunting at first but it is actually easy enough for any amateur cook.
You simply mix together soy sauce with sugar and mirin. Just add the mixture to some oil and garlic in a skillet for an effortless meal.
7. Gochujang Sauce
Gochujang is a thick fermented Korean chili paste that packs a serious spicy punch. It brings savory and sweet notes that work on everything from tacos to chicken wings.
There is no denying that this ingredient was practically made for noodles. You meld it with lime and hoisin sauce for a fiery and mouthwatering result.
8. Tsuyu Sauce
This Japanese condiment features sake and is not quite as well known in the States yet. Bonito flakes mix with soy sauce to create a very umami flavor profile.
Kelp adds an extra salty kick that pairs excellently with cold rice noodles. I also find it perfect for a brothy Asian soup.
9. Spicy Szechuan Sauce
My mouth is already watering just thinking about this spicy Szechuan creation. The result is garlicky and perfectly sweetened with plenty of heat.
Any noodles you toss in automatically become too good to resist. You can forget the extra toppings because this sauce stands on its own.
10. Lo Mein Sauce
This impeccable flavor profile is the only thing you need for lo mein. It features a well balanced mix of Shaoxing wine and two types of soy sauce.
A handful of cornstarch helps thicken everything up nicely. You can have a hot meal on the table in less than 10 minutes.
11. Sweet and Spicy Chili Garlic Sauce
You need savory and sweet notes to create the perfect flavor balance. This recipe uses Braggs as a gluten free alternative to soy sauce.
Just mix in some sesame oil and chili garlic sauce for a fantastic result. It takes 15 minutes to prep and works for all your vegan recipes.
12. Parmesan Butter Sauce
This comforting option acts as a quick fix for plain pasta. You only need some butter and parmesan along with chopped herbs.
I like to pour it all over my favorite type of noodles for a simple meal. It is a total lifesaver for busy work nights or fussy eaters.
