Italian Drunken Noodles Recipe
Description: Italian Drunken Noodles is a flavorful and zesty twist on the traditional Thai drunken noodles. This dish combines the bold flavors of garlic, basil, and chili with a rich tomato-based sauce, and incorporates Italian ingredients like red wine and Parmesan cheese for a fusion of Italian and Thai cuisines. The result is a hearty, savory, and spicy noodle dish that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds!
Ingredients:
- 8 oz wide rice noodles (or linguine for an Italian twist)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup red wine (preferably Italian, like Chianti or Sangiovese)
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp fish sauce (optional for a deeper umami flavor)
- 1 tbsp sugar (or honey for sweetness)
- 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
-
Instructions:
- Prepare the Noodles: Cook the rice noodles (or linguine) according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, tossing with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Sauce: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and onion, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and the onions are softened.
- Deglaze the Pan: Add the red wine to the pan and let it cook for 2-3 minutes, reducing slightly.
- Add Tomatoes & Seasoning: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), sugar, and crushed red pepper flakes. Allow the sauce to simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Combine the Noodles: Add the cooked noodles into the sauce, tossing to coat them thoroughly. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing the noodles to absorb the sauce.
- Finish with Basil & Parmesan: Once the noodles are well coated, stir in the fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Serve the Italian drunken noodles hot, garnished with more fresh basil and Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes:
- Wine Substitution: If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, you can substitute the red wine with vegetable broth or balsamic vinegar mixed with water.
- Noodle Options: You can use other noodles like spaghetti, or udon noodles, or keep it traditional with rice noodles for a gluten-free version (just make sure to check the label).
- Adjust Spice Level: The level of heat can be adjusted based on personal preference. Reduce or omit the crushed red pepper flakes for a milder dish.
Tips:
- Tomato Quality: Use high-quality canned tomatoes, as this will make a significant difference in the sauce’s flavor.
- Noodle Texture: Be careful not to overcook the noodles. They should be slightly firm when combined with the sauce.
- Wine Selection: An inexpensive red wine will work fine, but using a quality wine will enhance the depth of flavor in the dish.
Servings:
This recipe serves 4.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 370 kcal
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Benefits:
- High in Antioxidants: The tomatoes provide a good dose of antioxidants, such as vitamin C and lycopene, which support heart health and protect against cellular damage.
- Basil for Digestion: Fresh basil adds flavor and can also aid in digestion.
- Protein from Parmesan: A source of protein and calcium to help with bone health.
- Rich in Healthy Fats: Olive oil offers healthy fats that support overall wellness.
Q&A:
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can make the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Just reheat and toss with freshly cooked noodles when you’re ready to serve.
Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian? A: Absolutely! Simply omit the fish sauce and use vegetable broth in place of the red wine to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
Q: How can I make this spicier? A: Increase the crushed red pepper flakes, or add a sliced fresh chili pepper to the sauce for more heat.
Q: Can I use chicken or shrimp in this recipe? A: Yes! Feel free to add cooked chicken or shrimp to the dish for extra protein.
This fusion of Italian and Thai flavors will surely impress and satisfy with its rich, spicy, and aromatic sauce!