Noodles with seasoned salt might seem like a simple dish, but Paula Deen has a few tricks up her sleeve to turn this everyday meal into something extraordinary. Here are five secrets to Paula Deen's famous noodles with seasoned salt that you can apply to elevate your own noodle dishes.
Use High-Quality Noodles
The foundation of any great noodle dish starts with the noodles themselves. Paula Deen insists on using premium, thick, egg noodles for her recipes. These noodles not only have a better texture but also absorb flavors more effectively, enhancing the overall dish.
🍜 Note: Look for dried egg noodles which are usually labeled as “homestyle” or “country-style” for the best results.
Create Your Own Seasoned Salt
Store-bought seasoned salt can be good, but making your own allows you to tailor the flavor profile to your dish. Here’s a quick recipe for homemade seasoned salt:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Salt | 4 tablespoons |
| Paprika | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic Powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Onion Powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Black Pepper | 1 teaspoon |
| Cayenne Pepper | 1⁄2 teaspoon |
Mix these ingredients well and store in an airtight container. This blend will give your noodles an irresistible, savory kick.
Infuse Your Cooking Water
Instead of cooking noodles in plain water, Paula enhances the flavor from the very beginning:
- Boil your water with a good pinch of your seasoned salt.
- Add a splash of chicken or vegetable stock to the water for an extra layer of flavor.
- You can also add a few tablespoons of butter to the boiling water to enrich the noodles.
Butter and More Butter
Paula Deen isn’t shy about using butter in her recipes. Here’s how she does it:
- After boiling, drain the noodles but do not rinse them.
- Return the noodles to the pot on low heat, add a generous amount of butter, and let it melt, coating each noodle.
- If you’re feeling adventurous, mix in some herbs or garlic into the butter for an added dimension of flavor.
🧈 Note: The butter should be unsalted to control the saltiness from the seasoned salt.
Don’t Forget the Parmesan
To finish off, Paula sprinkles a generous amount of freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the noodles. The cheese:
- Provides a creamy texture when melted.
- Adds a subtle umami flavor that complements the seasoned salt.
By following these steps, you can transform simple noodles into a dish that’s rich in flavor and texture, showcasing the love and care that goes into Paula Deen’s recipes.
In summary, the secret to Paula Deen’s noodles with seasoned salt involves selecting the best ingredients, infusing flavor at every stage, and not skimping on the finishing touches. These tips can elevate any noodle dish from ordinary to extraordinary, providing a taste that’s both comforting and complex. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a gathering, these techniques are sure to impress with their simplicity and depth of flavor.
Can I use other types of noodles for this recipe?
+
Yes, you can experiment with different types like spaghetti or fettuccine, but keep in mind that the texture and flavor absorption might differ. Thick egg noodles work best for this dish.
How long can homemade seasoned salt be stored?
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When stored in an airtight container, homemade seasoned salt can last up to six months at room temperature. However, for the freshest flavor, consider using it within three months.
Is there a way to make this dish healthier?
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Absolutely. You can reduce the amount of butter or opt for unsalted butter to cut down on sodium. Additionally, incorporating whole grain or spinach noodles can increase the nutritional value.
