Whether you’re looking for a delicious side dish or the perfect base for your beef stroganoff, buttered noodles are an absolute crowd-pleaser. They’re easy to make, flavorful, and the ultimate comfort food.
Why Egg Noodles are a Game-Changer
I personally love using wide egg noodles for my buttered noodles. Their wide shape provides ample surface area for the butter to cling to, resulting in a perfectly coated and flavorful dish.
Let’s talk about egg noodles for a moment. They are similar to regular pasta but contain a higher ratio of egg to flour. This higher egg content gives the noodles a richer and more indulgent flavor.
The Art of Cooking Egg Noodles
Cooking egg noodles is a breeze, and it all starts with a pot of salted boiling water. The key is to use plenty of water so that it stays hot even after adding the pasta, ensuring even cooking. Stir the noodles at the beginning to prevent them from sticking together.
Once the water comes back to a boil, reduce the heat to a simmer. Finding the right temperature may require a bit of adjustment, but aim for a gentle bubbling. Stir the noodles occasionally until they reach the desired tenderness, following the instructions on the pasta bag as a general guideline.
When the noodles are perfectly cooked, drain them in a colander placed in the sink. You can choose to retain some of the pasta water, which can be used to thin out a sauce or add flavor to your dish.
Knowing When Your Pasta is Cooked
Forget about throwing noodles against the wall; the best way to check if your pasta is cooked to perfection is by tasting it. Set a timer for the minimum suggested cooking time, then use a wooden spoon to fish out a noodle. Blow on it to cool it down and taste it. If it’s the perfect texture for you, drain the pot. Otherwise, let it cook for another minute before testing again.
If you know that your pasta will be sitting in sauce for a while, consider slightly undercooking it. The residual heat will continue to soften the noodles, ensuring they are just right when you serve your dish.
Let’s Make Buttered Noodles
Once you have drained your perfectly cooked egg noodles, return them to the pot. Add small chunks of butter to the warm noodles and stir until it melts and coats every strand. Give it a taste and feel free to add a sprinkle of salt and pepper. For some extra freshness, add chopped fresh parsley or a dash of garlic powder.
And there you have it—buttery perfection in the form of perfectly cooked egg noodles. Now, all you need to do is find that beef stroganoff and enjoy a truly satisfying meal.
Christine
