Fried Rice Noodles Recipe – Simple Food Dishes

I've always been fascinated by the elegance of a simple stir-fry. One dish that stands out is fried rice noodles. 

There’s something magical about those slippery strands of goodness. They soak up flavors, transforming each bite into an explosion of taste.

This dish is loved in many Asian cuisines, but everyone seems to have their own spin. With just a handful of ingredients and a quick fry, you can serve up something that wows the crowd. 

As a registered dietitian and food enthusiast, I’m excited to share my favorite fried rice noodles recipe. Get ready to ignite your taste buds!

What Are Fried Rice Noodles?

Fried rice noodles are a dish typically made with rice flour noodles, often referred to as rice vermicelli. These noodles are thin and light, perfect for a quick stir-fry. They are common in various Southeast Asian cuisines, especially in dishes such as Pad Thai or Char Kway Teow.

They cook quickly and absorb flavors well, making them a go-to ingredient for stir-fries.

Why This Recipe Works

This fried rice noodle recipe brings together the perfect balance of textures and flavors. The crispy vegetables contrast beautifully with the tender noodles. Trust me; there's no need for takeout when you can whip this up in your kitchen.

The dish is also easily adaptable. You can include whatever proteins or veggies you have on hand.

What You'll Need to Make This Dish

• 1 (8 ounce) package rice noodles
• 3 medium carrots, julienned
• 4 napa cabbage leaves, shredded
• ¼ cup vegetable oil, divided
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• ½ medium onion, finely chopped
• ¼ clove garlic, finely minced
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon ground white pepper
• ¼ cup light soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon dried shrimp, small
• 4 dried shiitake mushrooms
• 3 cups fresh bean sprouts
• ½ pound thinly sliced pork tenderloin
• 1 sprig fresh cilantro, for garnish
• ¼ cup rice wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice mix
• Salt to taste

How to Make Fried Rice Noodles

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles

Start with the rice noodles. Cook them according to package instructions. Usually, this means boiling in water for just a few minutes until tender. Once done, drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set them aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pan or wok, heat half of the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Toss in the minced garlic and your julienned carrots. Stir-fry for about two minutes until the carrots soften slightly.

Step 3: Add Protein

Now, it’s time to add protein! If you’re using pork tenderloin, add it to the pan. Cook until the meat is no longer pink. If you prefer tofu or shrimp, add those instead.

Step 4: Incorporate the Noodles

Toss in your cooked rice noodles. Stir to combine everything well. This is where the magic begins. Those noodles will soak up the flavor of the vegetables and protein.

Step 5: Season the Dish

Add in the oyster sauce, soy sauce, cornstarch, white pepper, and dried shrimp. Mix thoroughly to ensure the noodles are evenly coated with sauce. If you want a spicy kick, this is the moment to add some chili flakes!

Step 6: Create the Egg Mixture

Push the noodle mixture to one side of the pan. In the empty space, pour in the beaten eggs. Scramble them gently, then mix everything together. This adds richness and binds the noodles.

Step 7: Final Touches

Fold in the shredded cabbage and fresh bean sprouts. Stir-fry for an additional two minutes until they’re just wilted but still crunchy. Finish it all off with a splash of rice wine vinegar and season with salt.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish

Transfer the fried rice noodles to a serving dish. Garnish with cilantro. Enjoy your creation!

Tips for Success

• Prep Ahead: Chop vegetables in advance. This saves time during cooking.
• Use High Heat: Stir-frying requires high heat for that authentic charred flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Noodles: They should be al dente since they will cook further in the pan.
• Experiment with Sauces: Feel free to substitute oyster sauce with hoisin or teriyaki sauce for a different flavor profile.
• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Everyone has different salt preferences, so season at the end.

How to Store Leftovers

Place your fried rice noodles in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll last about 3-4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water and cover the pan to steam the noodles back to life.

How Would I Recommend Serving Fried Rice Noodles?

• Serve with Lime Wedges: Fresh lime juice elevates the flavor and adds a citrusy zing.
• Top with Fried Garlic: Crispy garlic adds an extra crunch and flavor layer.
• Pair with Chili Sauce: For those who enjoy a spicy kick, a drizzle of chili sauce will do wonders.
• Enjoy with Pickled Vegetables: Pickled carrots and radishes can contrast the heat and richness, refreshing your palate.

What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients If Not Available?

• Rice Noodles: Use egg noodles or soba noodles in a pinch, although they offer different textures.
• Vegetable Oil: Sesame oil or olive oil can work, though they will impart distinct flavors.
• Pork Tenderloin: Substitute with chicken breast or tempeh for a vegetarian option.
• Dried Shrimp: Use fish sauce or seaweed flakes for a similar ocean flavor profile.

Conclusion

In summary, fried rice noodles are a delightful dish that can easily win over any crowd. With their adaptability and ease of preparation, they become a staple in my kitchen.

Try making this dish on a weeknight with family or as a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering. The flavors will impress everyone, and who knows? You might just create a new family favorite. Happy cooking!

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