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Copycat Crustacean Restaurant Garlic Noodles

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  • #86550

serves/makes:
  
ready in:
  under 30 minutes
Rating: 5/5

7 reviews

ingredients

1 pound Asian style egg noodles (fresh, not dried)
4 tablespoons butter
6 cloves garlic, smashed
2 tablespoons oyster sauce
2 teaspoons fish sauce
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese

directions

Cook noodles as directed in package and set aside. Melt butter in a pan over medium low heat then add smashed garlic and saute for 5 minutes. You want to infuse the butter with garlic but do not want to brown them as it will be bitter. Adjust heat if you need.

Discard garlic. Add fish sauce and oyster sauce to the butter, stir and mix. Add cooked noodles and parmesan cheese and toss.

cook's notes

I personally like Japanese Yakisoba noodles that comes in three small pouches in one bag. Boil 3/4 cups of water for all three pouches, add noodles and cook until all the water is absorbed, 2 to 3 minutes

Recipe Source: Crustacean Restaurant, San Francisco

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recipe tips


Use fresh ingredients and quality products for the best flavor.

Experiment with different types of noodles; try Thai rice noodles or even spaghetti in a pinch.

If you like a stronger umami flavor, try adding a splash of soy sauce along with the oyster and fish sauces.

For a spicy kick, include chili oil or sriracha when serving.

Toss the noodles quickly after adding all ingredients to allow for even coating and to prevent clumping.

Try garnishing with fresh herbs such as cilantro or basil.

Serve with a wedge of lime on the side for an additional bright flavor contrast.

Make sure to taste and adjust the sauces according to your own preference; each brand can vary in strength.

For a richer sauce, add an extra tablespoon of butter before serving.

common recipe questions


What are Asian-style egg noodles?

Asian-style egg noodles are made from wheat flour and eggs with a rich flavor and chewy texture. They are often found fresh in Asian grocery stores and can be used in various dishes.

Can I use dried egg noodles instead?

While you can use dried egg noodles, the texture and flavor will differ. Fresh noodles provide a softer, more delicate mouthfeel, while dried noodles can be firmer and may require longer cooking.

What can I substitute for oyster sauce?

If you don't have oyster sauce, you can use soy sauce mixed with a bit of sugar to mimic the sweetness and umami flavor. Vegetarian oyster sauce made from mushrooms is also a great alternative.

How can I make sure the garlic doesn't burn?

To prevent the garlic from burning, keep the heat on medium-low and constantly monitor it. If it starts to brown, reduce the heat immediately and stir it often.

Is it necessary to discard the garlic after infusing the butter?

Yes, discarding the garlic is typically recommended because overcooked garlic can impart a bitter flavor to the dish.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or bok choy can be added. Saute them briefly before adding the noodles.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

If you don't have Parmesan, Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano can work well as substitutes due to their similar flavors.

How can I store leftovers?

Store leftover garlic noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to help rehydrate the noodles.

Can garlic noodles be frozen?

While not ideal, garlic noodles can be frozen for up to 2 months. Freeze them in an airtight container, but keep in mind the texture may change upon reheating.

Can I add protein to this recipe to make it a main dish?

You can add proteins such as cooked shrimp, chicken, or tofu.

How do I know when the noodles are cooked?

Fresh egg noodles typically cook quickly; they should be tender but still slightly firm (al dente) when you taste them. Follow the package instructions closely for the best results.

tools needed


Skillet or Saute Pan: For melting the butter and sauteing the garlic and then incorporating the remaining ingredients.

Measuring Cups and Spoons: For measuring ingredients such as the oyster sauce, fish sauce, and Parmesan cheese.

Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring and mixing the butter, garlic, and sauces thoroughly with the cooked noodles.

Garlic Press (optional): A tool that can help in smashing the garlic cloves, although they can also be smashed with the flat side of a knife.

Colander (optional): If boiling the noodles, a colander is useful for draining excess water after cooking.


nutrition data

462 calories, 17 grams fat, 63 grams carbohydrates, 14 grams protein per serving.
Show full nutritional data (including Weight Watcher's Points ®, cholesterol, sodium, vitamins, and diabetic exchanges)


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reviews & comments

  1. Deb REVIEW:

    I've eaten at Crustaceans and at the one out in the Avenues. This is very similar - not perfect, but close enough to pass. Thanks!!

  2. Guest Foodie REVIEW:

    Delicious quick dinner, I used spaghetti and left the minced Garlic in...my hubby and I loved it!

  3. Christina N. REVIEW:

    In Vietnamese and Chinese cooking, obviously MSG is not ideal but it is part of the ingredients. So if you're up for trying to make it similar to the real thing, then MSG and sugar are two ingredients you should add. Make sure to add a lot of Parmesan cheese and you do not have to scoop out the garlic if you let it simmer for a while and avoid the browning.

  4. DOTT REVIEW:

    FANTASTIC RECIPE!!! Cooks in just a few minutes so I'll be making it for a quick meal more often.

  5. wiggles REVIEW:

    I had to use dried noodles not fresh because I don't have a good Asian market near me. I had all the other ingredients though. This turned out lovely

  6. ylaurie REVIEW:

    The reciepe is easy to make. Tastes ok. Rather expensive if you dont have the ingredients on hand and not even close to Crustacean's garlic noodle. Not enough butter, not enough garlic, minced garlic should be added and the worng kind of noodle. I'm looking for another recipe.

  7. JuJu REVIEW:

    I have visited Crustacean, San Francisco often. If I didn't cook this receipe myself, I wouldn't have known the difference. This receipe was excellent!

Please note:
This is a copy cat recipe submitted to CDKitchen by a third-party. This recipe is not an original recipe unless specifically stated and is considered only to be an acceptable "clone" to the original for the home cook to attempt to duplicate. Please also note that many nationwide restaurant chains vary their menus and ingredients by region so the version provided may not be similar to what you may have tried before. All trademarks referenced are property of their respective owners.

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