Spicy Kohlrabi Noodles Recipe

Kohlrabi: A type of cabbage with a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a crisp texture, perfect for spiralizing into noodles.

Olive oil: Used for sautéing, it adds a rich, smooth flavor to the dish.

Garlic: Provides a pungent, aromatic base for the sauce.

Red pepper flakes: Adds a spicy kick to the noodles.

Soy sauce: A salty, umami-rich sauce that enhances the overall flavor.

Rice vinegar: Adds a tangy, slightly sweet acidity to balance the flavors.

Honey: Brings a touch of sweetness to the sauce.

Green onions: Fresh and slightly sharp, they add a burst of color and flavor as a garnish.

Toasted sesame seeds: Adds a nutty flavor and a bit of crunch to the final dish.

When sautéing the garlic and red pepper flakes, ensure the heat is not too high to prevent burning. A gentle sauté over medium heat will allow the garlic to release its aroma and the red pepper flakes to infuse the olive oil with a subtle heat. This creates a flavorful base for the kohlrabi noodles.

• kohlrabi - Substitute with zucchini: Zucchini can be spiralized similarly and has a mild flavor that works well in this dish.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it a good alternative.

• garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a similar aromatic quality and can add a slightly sweeter taste.

• red pepper flakes - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper offers a similar level of heat and can be used in the same quantity.

• low sodium soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative that has a similar umami flavor.

• rice vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar provides a similar tangy flavor and can be used in the same quantity.

• honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup offers a similar sweetness and can be used in the same quantity.

• green onions - Substitute with chives: Chives provide a similar mild onion flavor and can be used as a garnish.

• toasted sesame seeds - Substitute with toasted sunflower seeds: Toasted sunflower seeds add a similar crunch and nutty flavor to the dish.

• Allow the kohlrabi noodles to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the noodles soggy.
• Transfer the cooled noodles to an airtight container. If you have multiple servings, consider using portion-sized containers for easy reheating.
• Store the container in the refrigerator. The spicy kohlrabi noodles will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
• For freezing, place the cooled noodles in a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Label the container or bag with the date. This helps you keep track of how long the noodles have been stored.
• When ready to eat, thaw the noodles in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing helps maintain the texture of the kohlrabi.
• Reheat the noodles in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil or a bit of water to prevent sticking and to refresh the flavors.
• Garnish with fresh green onions and toasted sesame seeds after reheating to restore the dish's vibrant appearance and taste.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add a small amount of olive oil or a splash of water to the skillet.
  3. Add the leftover Spicy Kohlrabi Noodles to the skillet.
  4. Stir occasionally, cooking for about 3-5 minutes until heated through.
  5. Add a bit more soy sauce or rice vinegar if the noodles seem dry.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the Spicy Kohlrabi Noodles in a microwave-safe dish.
  2. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
  3. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes.
  4. Stir the noodles and check the temperature.
  5. If needed, microwave for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute until heated through.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the Spicy Kohlrabi Noodles in an oven-safe dish.
  3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
  4. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  5. Check to ensure the noodles are heated evenly.

• Steamer Method:

  1. Set up a steamer basket over a pot of boiling water.
  2. Place the Spicy Kohlrabi Noodles in the steamer basket.
  3. Cover and steam for about 3-5 minutes.
  4. Check to ensure the noodles are heated through and serve immediately.

• Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for cooking the kohlrabi noodles and sautéing the garlic and red pepper flakes.

• Spiralizer: A kitchen tool used to create spiral-shaped noodles from the kohlrabi.

• Garlic press: A tool to mince the garlic cloves efficiently.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the olive oil, red pepper flakes, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey accurately.

• Small bowl: Used to mix the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey together.

• Spatula: A tool used to toss and coat the kohlrabi noodles evenly with the sauce.

• Chopping board: A surface used for chopping the green onions.

• Knife: Used to chop the green onions finely.

• Serving dish: A dish to serve the finished spicy kohlrabi noodles.

• Measuring cup: Used to measure the amount of kohlrabi needed.

Prep ingredients in advance: Peel and spiralize the kohlrabi ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

Use pre-minced garlic: Save time by using store-bought minced garlic instead of mincing it yourself.

Mix the sauce early: Combine the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey in a small bowl and refrigerate until needed.

Quick garnish: Chop the green onions and toast the sesame seeds in advance to streamline the final steps.