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Savory Slow Cooker Sesame Ginger Noodles Recipe with Easy Brown Sugar Glaze

slow cooker sesame ginger noodles - featured image

A comforting and flavorful slow cooker noodle dish infused with toasted sesame, fresh ginger, and a sticky brown sugar glaze. Perfect for easy weeknight dinners or potluck gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces dry egg noodles or spaghetti
  • 1 ½ cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
  • ¼ cup soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 3 tablespoons brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 2 teaspoons freshly grated ginger
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce or Sriracha (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
  • 3 green onions, thinly sliced
  • Fresh cilantro leaves (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, grated ginger, minced garlic, and chili garlic sauce (if using) until the brown sugar dissolves completely (about 2 minutes).
  2. Spray the slow cooker insert lightly with cooking spray or brush with a teaspoon of sesame oil to prevent sticking. Add the dry noodles in an even layer.
  3. Pour the broth evenly over the noodles, then drizzle the toasted sesame oil and the prepared sauce on top. Avoid stirring to prevent noodles from clumping.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 2 to 2 ½ hours. Check at 2 hours; noodles should be tender but not mushy. Add more broth or water if needed.
  5. Once noodles are tender, gently stir to coat them evenly in the sauce. Adjust seasoning with extra soy sauce or brown sugar if desired.
  6. Cook uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes to thicken the glaze slightly.
  7. Transfer noodles to a serving dish and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds, sliced green onions, and fresh cilantro leaves.

Notes

Avoid stirring too much during cooking to prevent noodles from breaking down and becoming mushy. If your slow cooker runs hot, check noodles earlier to prevent overcooking. Toast sesame seeds in a dry pan for 1-2 minutes before garnishing for extra flavor and crunch. Adjust sweetness near the end of cooking to taste.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker noodles, sesame ginger noodles, brown sugar glaze, easy dinner, comfort food, Asian noodles, slow cooker recipe