Who Knew Carrots Could Taste This Good?
If you’re someone who finds carrots a little too… well, carroty, these Asian carrot noodles are about to flip the script! With the help of bold, zesty sauces (think hoisin, soy sauce, and sesame oil), we’re about to transform those crunchy roots into a magical noodle dish that’s loaded with flavor. Think of this recipe as your way to sneak in some extra veggies while still giving you all the mouthwatering takeout vibes—minus the heaviness. It’s quick (we’re talking 30 minutes), healthy, and, my favorite part, doesn’t taste like plain ol’ carrots!
Grab These Ingredients
You don’t need much to make the most delicious carrot noodles! This is an overview, but you can jump down to the recipe card for exact measurements.
Sesame Oil: This flavor-rich oil is slightly nutty and complements the other Asian flavors in this recipe. Hoisin Sauce: By far the most magical ingredient here. This blend of soy, chile, garlic, sugar, and (sometimes) vinegar or garlic brings a big Chinese punch of flavor. Soy Sauce: Something needs to bring the umami to these carrots, and soy sauce is always up to the challenge! Orange Juice: Just a dash does sweet citrus wonders! Ginger: Freshly grated ginger moderates the hoisin sauce (and is just that missing piece of the Asian flavor puzzle). Carrots: Obviously, we need carrots to make carrot noodles! Full-size carrots are best, but there’s no need to peel them (just wash them well!). Sesame Seeds: Top your noodles with sesame seeds to add a little crunch and really drive home that nutty sesame flavor.
Carrot Noodles Are So Easy To Make
All it takes is mixing the sauce up and shaving the carrots! (Jump to the recipe card for the full printable instructions.) Step 1: Make The GlazeMix the hoisin, soy, orange juice, and ginger in a small bowl. Step 2: Noodle-fy The CarrotsUse a vegetable peeler to peel the length of the carrot, creating long ribbons. Step 3: Cook The RibbonsHeat sesame oil in a large saute pan or a wok over medium heat. Add carrot noodles and cook them for 3 minutes, gently stirring often. Add the sauce mixture and continue cooking for another 1 minute, stirring to blend everything. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and serve hot!
Recipe Tips
Don’t Peel: No one wants more work, so don’t make more for yourself! Washing the carrots is enough, so don’t worry about trying to peel them. The peels are perfectly tasty! Make a Complete Meal: Boost the protein in this side dish by adding some air-fried tofu, chickpeas, tempeh, or your favorite plant-based protein! Get Creative with Sauces: Carrot noodles are like a blank canvas! Shake things up by tossing them with peanut sauce (or our famous almond butter sauce), homemade pesto, or a simple lemon tahini dressing.
