Fried Garlic Noodles

• for the microwave fried garlic:
• ¼ cup minced garlic (about 12 cloves)

neutral oil

kosher salt

sugar

• for the fried garlic noodles:
• 1 pound fresh saimin, ramen, or chow mein noodles
• 3 tablespoons Microwave Fried Garlic, with reserved oil
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic (about 8 cloves)
• 3 tablespoons shoyu (soy sauce)
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 2 teaspoons instant dashi powder (such as HonDashi)
• ¼ cup chopped scallions

sambal oelek or kudeesh sauce, for serving (optional)

1. 1. Make the microwave fried garlic: Place the garlic in a microwave-safe bowl and add enough oil to cover (at least 3 tablespoons). Microwave for 1 minute, then stir. Repeat, stirring and microwaving in 30-second increments until the garlic begins to brown. Then repeat, stirring and microwaving in 15-second increments, until the garlic is a deep gold. (This could take between 2 and 4 minutes total, depending on your microwave.) In a sieve set over a bowl, drain the garlic, reserving the oil. Transfer the garlic to a plate lined with paper towels and season with a pinch each of salt and sugar. Set aside to cool.
2. 2. Make the fried garlic noodles: Bring a large pot of water to a boil over high heat. Loosen the noodles and add to the pot. When the water returns to a boil, the noodles should be nearly done (2 to 3 minutes; or follow the package directions). Check the noodles by taste or touch. They should be tender but springy. Drain thoroughly.
3. 3. In a wok or skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of the garlic oil over high heat until shimmering-hot. Add the raw garlic, stir-frying until fragrant but not browned, a few seconds. Add the noodles and toss to coat. Add the shoyu, oyster sauce, and dashi powder and continue to stir-fry for another minute or two until the sauce is absorbed.
4. 4. Remove the pan from the heat and transfer the noodles to a serving plate or individual bowls. Reheat the fried garlic in the microwave until crispy, 10 to 15 seconds, keeping an eye (and a nose) on it so it doesn’t burn.
5. 5. Garnish the noodles with scallions and fried garlic before serving. Top with sambal or kudeesh sauce if desired.