Noodlepedia
A glossary of both familiar and lesser-known Asian ingredients and terms.
Sesame Oil
A rich, nutty oil made from toasted sesame seeds. Used for flavor, not frying.
Pro Tip: Use it at the end of cooking—high heat can burn the flavor.
How to Use It:
- Drizzle over noodles or stir-fry
- Add to dressings or marinades
- Finish soups for a savory boost
1. Sesame Scallion Noodles
Vibe: Minimal effort, maximum flavor. Think late-night cravings or lazy lunch magic in under 15 minutes.
🛒 Ingredients:
1 pack noodles (ramen, udon, soba, or even spaghetti)
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp sesame oil
1 tsp rice vinegar
1 tsp sugar or honey
2 garlic cloves, grated or minced
2–3 scallions, sliced (separate white and green parts)
Optional: chili crisp, sesame seeds, shredded cucumber, fried egg
👩🍳 Instructions:
Cook noodles, drain, and set aside.
In a pan, heat a splash of oil and sauté the white parts of scallions and garlic until fragrant.
Add soy sauce, sesame oil, vinegar, and sugar. Stir.
Toss in the noodles and mix until glossy and coated.
Top with green scallion parts, sesame seeds, chili crisp, or a jammy egg.
✨ Why it slaps: It’s easy, customizable, and that sesame oil gives it that toasty, nutty vibe that makes people think you really know how to cook.
2. Sesame Ginger Slaw (a perfect side or rice bowl topper)
Vibe: Bright, crunchy, tangy-sweet with a deep sesame backbone. Great for BBQs, meal prep, or layering onto sandwiches.
🛒 Ingredients:
3 cups shredded cabbage (or coleslaw mix)
1/2 cup shredded carrot
2 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp sesame oil
1 tbsp mayo or tahini (optional but adds creaminess)
1 tsp grated ginger
1 tsp soy sauce
1 tsp honey or agave
Optional: chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeño, toasted sesame seeds
👩🍳 Instructions:
Whisk together sesame oil, vinegar, mayo/tahini, ginger, soy sauce, and honey in a bowl.
Toss with cabbage and carrots until everything’s coated.
Let sit for 10–15 min to soften slightly.
Serve cold or room temp—great on top of grilled meat, tofu, or in a rice bowl.
🌈 Why people love it: It’s light but packed with flavor, and sesame oil gives it that “you made this from scratch!?” taste.