Spicy Korean Chili Stir-Fry Pasta
Flavorful and Savory Chili Stir-Fry Pasta
Introducing a new favorite, a twist on Aglio e Olio: ‘Chili Stir-Fry Pasta’! This dish boasts the delightful spicy kick of Korean chili and the nutty aroma of sesame oil, offering a uniquely smooth and subtly captivating flavor. It’s a delicious alternative to pepperoncini pasta, showcasing the charming appeal of Korean chili peppers.
Ingredients (Serves 2)
- 180g Pasta (Spaghetti or Linguine recommended)
- 8 Tbsp Chili Stir-Fry Paste (homemade or store-bought)
- 8 cloves Garlic (thinly sliced)
- 4 tsp Sesame Oil
- 2 Egg Yolks (for topping)
- 2 pinches Salt (or to taste)
- 8 Tbsp Olive Oil
- Pinch of Black Pepper (freshly ground for best flavor)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Heat 8 tablespoons of olive oil in a wide pan over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced garlic and sauté gently until fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this will impart a bitter flavor. You want to infuse the oil with a delicious garlic aroma.
Step 2
Add the 8 tablespoons of chili stir-fry paste to the pan with the fragrant garlic oil. Stir and cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the spicy chili flavor to meld with the garlic oil. Ensure the chili paste is well combined. (Tip: If you don’t have homemade chili paste, you can use a store-bought version or refer to a previous recipe for making it.)
Step 3
Meanwhile, cook 180g of pasta in a large pot of generously salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Before draining, reserve about 1 ladleful (approx. 120ml) of the starchy pasta water. This reserved water is key to creating a beautiful sauce.
Step 4
Pour the reserved ladleful of pasta water into the pan with the chili and garlic mixture. Stir vigorously, shaking the pan or using a spoon, until the oil and water emulsify, creating a smooth, cohesive sauce that will cling to the pasta.
Step 5
Add the drained cooked pasta to the pan with the sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated. Generously grind fresh black pepper over the pasta, then drizzle with 4 teaspoons of sesame oil. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more chili paste for heat or a couple of pinches of salt for saltiness.
Step 6
Transfer the pasta to serving plates. Carefully place one fresh egg yolk in the center of each plate. The rich yolk will add a wonderfully creamy texture and depth of flavor.
Step 7
For an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal, sprinkle some sesame seeds over the pasta as a garnish. (I omitted this, but if you have them, they are a great addition!)
Step 8
Before enjoying, gently break the egg yolk and mix it into the hot pasta. The yolk will coat the strands, making the sauce even more luxurious and velvety.
Step 9
If you’re hesitant about using raw egg yolk, you can omit it, but it truly elevates the dish to its intended creamy perfection. We highly recommend trying it!
Step 10
This finished Chili Stir-Fry Pasta offers a delightful spicy aroma from the chili and a rich, nutty fragrance from the sesame oil, creating a culinary experience that rivals any Aglio e Olio. Enjoy this uniquely Korean-inspired pasta dish!
