Name: Spicy Potato Noodles Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1.1 pounds russet potato, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces; ½ teaspoon salt; 1½ cups potato starch; ½ cup warm water; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons Chinese black vinegar; 2 tablespoons gochugaru or Chinese chili powder; 1¼ teaspoons granulated sugar; ⅛ teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons minced garlic; 1 stalk green onion, sliced; 3 tablespoons neutral oil; ⅓ cup chopped cilantro

Prepare to fall in love: Spicy Potato Noodles are everything you could ever crave in a comforting noodle dish—soft, bouncy noodles made entirely from potatoes, all drenched in an aromatic, garlicky chili oil that sings with savory, tangy, and spicy notes. This is the sort of recipe that feels both playful and impressive, whether it’s a cozy weeknight or you’re out to wow friends at the table. Each bite is irresistibly chewy and flavorful, especially when finished off with plenty of fresh cilantro. If you haven’t tried Spicy Potato Noodles yet, get ready for a whole new favorite.

Spicy Potato Noodles Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Spicy Potato Noodles lies in its simplicity—each ingredient, no matter how humble, is essential for that crave-worthy texture and explosion of flavor. From pantry staples to fresh herbs, let’s gather everything you need to make this dish pop.

Russet potato (1.1 pounds, peeled and cut into 1 inch pieces): The foundation of the noodles, russets bring the right amount of starch and fluffiness for that springy bite.
Salt (½ teaspoon + ⅛ teaspoon): Don’t underestimate what a little salt can do—it boosts flavor and helps the dough come together.
Potato starch (1½ cups): Critical for giving the noodles their signature elasticity and chewy texture; don’t substitute with corn starch.
Warm water (½ cup): Warmth ensures the dough forms smoothly and stays pliable for shaping.
Soy sauce (2 tablespoons): Adds a savory umami undertone to the fiery chili oil.
Chinese black vinegar (2 tablespoons): This sharp, malty vinegar layers in depth and a tang that balances the heat.
Gochugaru or Chinese chili powder (2 tablespoons): The color and heat; gochugaru offers gentle warmth while Chinese chili powder delivers a more assertive kick.
Granulated sugar (1¼ teaspoons): Rounds out the flavor and tames the spice just a touch.
Garlic, minced (2 tablespoons): The heart of the sauce—aromatic, punchy, and truly addictive.
Green onion, sliced (1 stalk): Fresh and slightly sharp, green onion adds a classic, fragrant finish.
Neutral oil (3 tablespoons): Essential for infusing the chili oil with all those spices; choose avocado, sunflower, or grapeseed oil for a clean taste.
Cilantro, roughly chopped (⅓ cup): The final herby touch which brightens and balances the dish.

How to Make Spicy Potato Noodles

Step 1: Cook the Potatoes

Start off by boiling your peeled and chopped potatoes until fork-tender, which usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes. This step is so simple, but so satisfying—the potatoes need to be fully soft, so they’ll mash up smooth.

Step 2: Make the Dough

Once your potatoes are hot and steamy, drain them well and start mashing right away with added salt—no lumps allowed! While the mash is still warm, knead in the potato starch bit by bit; the heat helps the starch blend, creating that bouncy noodle texture. Next, stream in the warm water and knead again until you have a nearly smooth dough. Don’t worry if it doesn’t feel stretchy like bread dough—the warmth makes it perfectly pliable.

Step 3: Shape the Potato Noodles

Time to get a little hands-on! Divide the dough into roughly fourteen pieces and keep them covered with a damp towel so they don’t dry out. Roll each piece into thick, half-inch ropes—these are your noodles. Boil them gently, making sure the noodles have space to float freely. As they rise to the top, let them cook an extra minute before transferring straight into cold water. This keeps them gorgeously chewy without getting sticky.

Step 4: Prepare the Chili Oil

Now for the magic! Place all chili oil ingredients—even the garlic—into a heatproof bowl, except for the oil and cilantro. Heat the oil in a pan until it’s shimmering and almost smoking. Carefully pour the hot oil over the spices; you’ll hear a sizzle, and an incredible aroma will fill your kitchen. Once things settle, stir in the chopped cilantro. This is your flavor-packed sauce.

Step 5: Toss and Serve

Drain your cooled potato noodles well, then move them into a large bowl. Pour over every drop of that homemade chili oil and gently toss so every noodle gets coated. Add a bit of chopped cilantro on top for a burst of freshness, and dive in while the noodles are still warm!

How to Serve Spicy Potato Noodles

Garnishes

The best part of serving Spicy Potato Noodles is finishing them off with the right touches. A generous scattering of fresh cilantro and a handful of thinly sliced green onions are classics, adding color and a bright, herbal lift. If you want even more crunch, a few toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts will take things to the next level.

Side Dishes

These noodles are deliciously bold, so they shine when paired with crisp, refreshing sides. Think lightly pickled cucumbers or a classic smashed cucumber salad—anything cool to balance the spice. For a heartier meal, serve alongside Taiwanese fried chicken or chicken karaage for the ultimate comfort combo.

Creative Ways to Present

Try piling your Spicy Potato Noodles family-style in a wide, shallow bowl as the centerpiece of your table. For a more playful spin, twirl them into little nests on small plates as an appetizer. You can even add a jammy soft-boiled egg or vibrant chili crisp for a dramatic, Instagram-worthy finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any Spicy Potato Noodles left (it’s a big if!), transfer extras to an airtight container. Keep the noodles and the chili oil sauce together—this way, the flavors continue to meld and intensify. Store in the fridge for up to three days for optimal taste and texture.

Freezing

Freezing potato noodles can be tricky, since their signature chewiness may suffer once thawed. If you must freeze, do so as soon as the noodles are shaped but before boiling, placing them on a parchment-lined tray until solid, then transferring to a freezer bag. Defrost in the fridge before boiling fresh and finishing with chili oil.

Reheating

To bring your Spicy Potato Noodles back to life, gently warm them in a non-stick skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce if needed. You can also microwave, covered, just until heated through. Always finish with a pinch of fresh cilantro or green onion, just like when freshly made.

FAQs

Can I use sweet potatoes for this recipe?

Yes, you can swap in sweet potatoes for russet, though the noodles will be slightly sweeter and may have a different color and texture. Still, they make for a fun twist on Spicy Potato Noodles!

My dough feels dry and crumbly—what should I do?

If your dough isn’t coming together, mix in a bit more warm water a tablespoon at a time. Warmth is key to keeping the mixture soft, so make sure your potatoes are freshly cooked when you start.

Do I have to use gochugaru, or can I use another chili powder?

Gochugaru is wonderfully fruity and mild, but if you only have another chili powder (like Chinese chili flakes or even cayenne), feel free to experiment. Just adjust the amount depending on desired heat and flavor complexity.

Can I make the noodles gluten-free?

Good news: Spicy Potato Noodles are naturally gluten-free, as they’re made entirely from potatoes and potato starch! Just ensure your soy sauce and vinegar brands are gluten-free if you’re sensitive.

Is there a way to make the noodles less spicy?

Absolutely. To dial down the heat, use less chili powder or opt for a milder variety. You can also add extra sugar or even toss in a little sesame oil for a gentler, mellow finish.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend making Spicy Potato Noodles enough—each bowlful is a cozy, chewy, flavor-packed adventure. Once you try it, you’ll see just how simple and rewarding homemade noodles can be. So gather your ingredients, unleash your inner noodle maker, and treat yourself to this unforgettable dish. Your kitchen (and your taste buds) will thank you!

Spicy Potato Noodles Recipe