Scallion Oil Noodles

Scallion oil noodles, also known as Cong You Ban Mian, are a popular Chinese dish that features springy noodles tossed in a fragrant scallion-infused oil. Here's a recipe to make scallion oil noodles:

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces of noodles (such as wheat noodles, udon noodles, or ramen noodles)
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup sliced scallions (green onions)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce (for color, optional)
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• Optional toppings: sliced cucumbers, bean sprouts, sesame seeds

Instructions:

1. Cook the noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a small saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat until hot but not smoking.
3. Add the sliced scallions and minced garlic to the saucepan, and cook for about 2-3 minutes until the scallions turn slightly golden and crispy.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the scallion oil cool for a few minutes.
5. In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, dark soy sauce (if using), sugar, and salt. Stir until the sugar and salt are dissolved.
6. Pour the scallion oil through a fine-mesh sieve into the soy sauce mixture, pressing on the scallions to extract as much flavor as possible. Discard the cooked scallions.
7. Give the scallion oil and soy sauce mixture a good stir to combine into a flavorful sauce.
8. Toss the cooked noodles in the scallion oil sauce until well coated.
9. Serve the scallion oil noodles hot or at room temperature.
10. Garnish with sliced cucumbers, bean sprouts, and sesame seeds, if desired, for added texture and freshness.

Scallion oil noodles are simple yet delicious. They can be enjoyed as a quick and satisfying meal on their own or served as a side dish alongside other Chinese dishes. Feel free to adjust the seasoning and toppings to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy the flavorful combination of scallion-infused oil and noodles!