These Spicy Pumpkin Pork Noodles combine the rich, earthy flavors of pumpkin with the savory taste of ground pork, creating a dish that’s perfect for a cool autumn evening. The subtle sweetness of the pumpkin is balanced by the heat from the chili garlic sauce, making it both comforting and invigorating.
Whether you’re looking for a unique way to use pumpkin or just want to elevate your noodle game, this recipe is sure to impress. The vibrant garnishes of green onions and sesame seeds not only add color but also provide a delightful crunch, rounding out a dish that’s both visually appealing and delicious. Enjoy this meal as a cozy dinner or a quick lunch to savor the season’s flavors.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
- 8 oz ground pork
- 8 oz ramen or udon noodles
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tbsp chili garlic sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
Directions:
- Cook the Noodles: Boil the ramen or udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, chili garlic sauce, and chicken broth until well combined. Set aside.
- Cook the Pork: In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the ground pork and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and fully cooked.
- Combine: Pour the prepared pumpkin sauce into the skillet with the pork. Stir well and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Add the Noodles: Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 460 kcal | Servings: 2 servings
Ingredient Notes:
- Sugar Pumpkin: A small sugar pumpkin is used for this recipe because of its sweet flavor and tender texture. However, if it’s not available or you’re short on time, a canned pumpkin puree works just as well. Just ensure you’re using plain pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added spices and sugar.
- Korean Chili Paste (Gochujang): This chili paste is a staple in Korean cuisine. It has a spicy, sweet, and slightly fermented flavor, adding depth to any dish. If you’re new to gochujang, start with a smaller quantity and adjust to taste, as it can be quite spicy.
- Bucatini Noodles: Bucatini is a hollow spaghetti that absorbs sauces well, making it perfect for this recipe. You can substitute with any pasta or noodle, such as udon, spaghetti, or rice noodles, based on your preference.
Cooking Tips:
- Roasting the Pumpkin: If using fresh pumpkin, roasting helps to bring out its natural sweetness and adds a caramelized flavor to the dish. Just ensure the pieces are soft enough to blend easily into the sauce.
- Building the Sauce: Sautéing the garlic and ginger in the same pan as the pork infuses the oil with their flavor and creates a fragrant base for the sauce. When adding the gochujang and other liquid ingredients, be sure to mix well to evenly coat the pork and noodles.
- Adjusting Spice Levels: The amount of gochujang can be tailored to your spice preference. If you want the dish to be milder, reduce the quantity or add more honey/maple syrup to balance the heat.
Customization Ideas:
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, you can replace ground pork with crumbled tofu, tempeh, or chopped mushrooms for a similar texture and umami flavor.
- Add Veggies: To make this dish even more nutritious, add in your favorite vegetables. Seasonal greens like spinach, kale, or bok choy work beautifully. You can also add bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas.
- Switch the Protein: While pork is the traditional protein here, feel free to substitute it with ground chicken, turkey, beef, or even shrimp.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Pumpkin: Rich in vitamins A and C, pumpkin is a nutrient-dense addition to this dish. It also provides a touch of natural sweetness and creaminess, making the sauce more robust and flavorful.
- Protein-Rich: Ground pork adds protein and richness to the dish, but you can adapt it to your preferred dietary needs by choosing leaner meats or plant-based proteins.
- Balance of Carbs and Veggies: This recipe strikes a balance between the noodles as a carb base and the vegetables and pumpkin providing fiber and vitamins, creating a wholesome meal.
Serving Suggestions:
- Garnishing: A sprinkling of toasted sesame seeds and freshly chopped green onions not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish with a subtle crunch and aromatic freshness.
- Side Dishes: Pair this dish with a simple side salad of cucumber and sesame dressing, or with pickled vegetables like kimchi for a refreshing contrast to the savory noodles.
Storage and Leftovers:
- Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed.
- Freezing: While the noodles may lose some texture, you can freeze the pork and pumpkin sauce separately for up to a month and cook fresh noodles when ready to serve.
Optional Toppings and Garnishes:
- Toasted Nuts & Seeds: Apart from sesame seeds, you can add a sprinkle of crushed peanuts or cashews for a crunchy texture.
- Fresh Herbs: Chopped cilantro or Thai basil can enhance the flavor and bring a fresh aroma to the dish.
- Soft-Boiled Egg: For an added protein boost and to elevate the dish, top each bowl with a perfectly cooked soft-boiled egg that oozes into the noodles, enriching the sauce.
Balancing the Sweetness and Spice:
The balance of sweetness and spice is essential to this dish. The honey or maple syrup softens the heat of the gochujang while enhancing the natural sweetness of the pumpkin. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, you can add a little extra honey or a splash of coconut milk for a creamier and slightly sweet finish.
Pairing Suggestions:
- Side Dishes: This flavorful noodle dish pairs beautifully with light, refreshing sides such as:
- Cucumber Salad: Thinly sliced cucumbers dressed in rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a pinch of sugar.
- Pickled Vegetables: Quick-pickled radishes, carrots, or daikon provide a tangy contrast.
- Kimchi: The tangy, spicy flavor of kimchi complements the noodles and adds a probiotic boost.
Conclusion
Spicy Pumpkin Pork Noodles is a versatile, flavorful dish that beautifully combines the savory and slightly sweet elements of roasted pumpkin with the spicy kick of gochujang. Perfect for those who want to enjoy a unique twist on traditional pasta dishes, this recipe brings a taste of Korean-inspired flavors to your table in a cozy, comforting meal. It’s quick to prepare, adaptable to your preferences, and a delightful way to celebrate seasonal ingredients while keeping your dinners exciting and satisfying. Whether you’re a fan of spicy food or looking to experiment with pumpkin in a savory setting, this dish is bound to become a fall favorite that you’ll return to again and again. Enjoy every spicy, savory, and slightly sweet bite!