Spicy Korean Noodle Stir-Fry

This Spicy Korean Noodle Stir-Fry combines traditional Korean flavors with a creative twist. Featuring chewy noodles, vibrant vegetables, and a moderately spicy sauce, this dish is both comforting and exciting. The balance of heat and umami makes it a delightful main course that is perfect for any dinner table.

Ingredients:

• 200g Korean wheat noodles (or any suitable noodles)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium carrot, julienned
• 1 bell pepper, sliced (any color)
• 100g shiitake mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup baby spinach
• 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 green onions, chopped
• Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the Korean noodles according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
2. In a large pan or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
3. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the julienned carrot and sliced bell pepper, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until slightly tender.
5. Add the shiitake mushrooms and baby spinach, cooking until the spinach wilts and mushrooms soften.
6. In a small bowl, mix together the gochujang, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and sugar to create the sauce.
7. Add the cooked noodles to the pan and pour the sauce over them, tossing everything together until well combined and heated through.
8. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.