San Francisco-Style Vietnamese American Garlic Noodles

San Francisco-Style Vietnamese American Garlic Noodles

San Francisco-Style Vietnamese American Garlic Noodles is a popular fusion dish that combines the bold, aromatic flavors of Vietnamese cuisine with American comfort food. This dish features noodles tossed in a flavorful sauce made from garlic, butter, soy sauce, and other seasonings, resulting in a rich, savory, and slightly sweet taste. Originating in the Vietnamese-American community of San Francisco, this dish has gained popularity for its simplicity, quick preparation, and irresistibly savory flavor. Often served as a side dish or main course, it pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, seafood, or vegetables. With just a few ingredients, these garlic noodles come together quickly, making it a great option for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces spaghetti or egg noodles (can also use rice noodles for a more authentic Vietnamese touch)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, for additional depth)
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon chopped green onions (optional for garnish)
• Parmesan cheese (optional, but recommended for a creamy twist)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Noodles:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti (or rice noodles) according to the package directions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the noodles, reserving a small cup of pasta water for later.

2. Prepare the Garlic Sauce:

• In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil and butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 2 minutes, until fragrant and golden brown, but be careful not to burn the garlic.

3. Make the Sauce:

• Add the soy sauce, fish sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and white pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the sauce to reduce slightly. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little bit of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.

4. Toss the Noodles:

• Add the drained noodles to the skillet with the garlic sauce. Toss everything together to coat the noodles evenly in the sauce. Continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the noodles to absorb the flavors.

5. Serve:

• Once the noodles are well-coated and heated through, transfer them to serving plates.
• Garnish with chopped cilantro, green onions, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese (if using) for extra flavor.

Pro Tips:

• Add Protein: This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, shrimp, or beef. For a vegetarian version, add tofu or sautéed vegetables.
• Adjust Sauce: Feel free to adjust the soy sauce and fish sauce to your preferred saltiness level. Add more sugar if you like a touch of sweetness.
• Noodles Choice: Although traditionally made with egg noodles, you can use spaghetti or even rice noodles for a gluten-free version.

Conclusion:

San Francisco-Style Vietnamese American Garlic Noodles are a perfect combination of savory, buttery, and garlicky flavors that will have you coming back for more. Whether served as a side or main dish, it’s a quick and flavorful meal that brings together the best of Vietnamese and American influences in one delicious bowl. Enjoy these noodles with your favorite protein or on their own, and savor the simplicity and richness of this beloved fusion dish!