This Smoky Maple Soba Noodle Bowl is a bold, umami-packed dish featuring nutty soba noodles, tender baby broccoli, and a rich sauce made with soy sauce, Smoked Maple, and a touch of Collected Foods Korean Chili Flakes. The balance of sweet, smoky, and spicy flavors makes this dish a quick and satisfying meal, perfect for lunch or dinner.
Why You'll Love This Recipe:
✔️ Easy & Quick – Ready in under 30 minutes.
✔️ Balanced Flavors – Sweet maple, spicy Korean chili, and deep umami richness.
✔️ Versatile – Swap soba for brown rice for a gluten-free option.
✔️ Packed with Nutrients – High in fiber, protein, and antioxidants.
Ingredients:
Serves 2-4
- 7 oz soba noodles (or substitute brown rice)
- 2 heads baby broccoli
- 1 Tbsp. peanut oil or neutral oil
- ½-inch ginger root, peeled and finely chopped
- 1 red chile, seeded and finely sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, finely sliced
- 2 Tbsp. soy sauce
- 3 scallions, chopped (white and green parts separated)
- 1 extra-large egg
- Black sesame seeds, for garnish
- ¼ cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1 Tbsp. Smoked Maple
- 2 Tbsp. sesame oil
- 1 Tbsp. Umami Blend
- Pinch of Collected Foods Korean Chili Flakes
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Soba Noodles
1️⃣ Bring a saucepan of water to a boil and cook soba noodles according to package directions (about 7 minutes).
2️⃣ Drain, rinse under cold water, and toss with 1 Tbsp. sesame oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Steam the Baby Broccoli
3️⃣ Trim the bottom of the broccoli stems and place in a steamer pot.
4️⃣ Sprinkle Umami Spice over the broccoli.
5️⃣ Cover and steam until almost tender, about 2-4 minutes, depending on thickness.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
6️⃣ Heat ½ Tbsp. oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
7️⃣ Add ginger, red chile, red bell pepper, and garlic.
8️⃣ Sauté until garlic is pale gold and fragrant, about 2 minutes.
9️⃣ Stir in soy sauce and Smoked Maple syrup.
Step 4: Combine & Finish
🔟 Drain the noodles and add them to the skillet, along with ¼ cup reserved soba water.
🔟 Toss in baby broccoli and the white part of scallions. Stir to coat everything in the sauce.
Step 5: Cook the Egg
🔟 In a separate small skillet, heat ½ Tbsp. oil and fry the egg until the edges are crispy but the yolk remains runny.
Step 6: Serve & Garnish
🔟 Divide the noodles and broccoli into bowls and slide the egg on top.
🔟 Sprinkle with black sesame seeds, Collected Foods Korean Chili Flakes, and the green part of scallions.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
📌 Make Ahead: Prep the sauce and chop veggies in advance for quick assembly.
📌 Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
📌 Reheat: Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or broth for best texture.
Serving Suggestions
✨ Serve with a side of kimchi or pickled vegetables for extra tang.
✨ Add tofu, shrimp, or chicken for extra protein.
✨ Swap soba noodles for rice or rice noodles to make it gluten-free.
Why Use Collected Foods Korean Chili Flakes?
Our Korean Chili Flakes (Gochugaru) bring a gentle heat with smoky, fruity undertones, making them the perfect addition to noodle dishes, marinades, and spice blends. Unlike regular chili flakes, gochugaru provides a balanced warmth that enhances flavor without overpowering.