Ingredients

8 ounces noodles (spaghetti works best; you can also use thicker chow mein or hakka noodles)

1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

1/4 teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)

Sesame seeds (for garnish, if desired)

2 cups vegetable broth (or water)

2 teaspoons sesame oil

1 teaspoon ginger paste

1 teaspoon minced garlic

3 tablespoons soy sauce

1 tablespoon vinegar (rice vinegar recommended)

1-2 teaspoons red chili paste (adjust to taste; sambal oelek suggested)

1 teaspoon brown sugar

1/2 cup cabbage (thinly sliced)

1 carrot (peeled and sliced into matchsticks)

1/2 cup bell pepper (thinly sliced)

1/4 cup scallion or green onion (white and green parts divided)

1/2 cup broccoli (cut into very small florets)

Instructions

Step 1: In a bowl, whisk together all the sauce ingredients—sesame oil, ginger paste, garlic, soy sauce, vinegar, red chili paste, and brown sugar—until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 2: Break the spaghetti noodles in half and add them to the Instant Pot.

Step 3: Pour the prepared sauce over the noodles. Layer the cabbage, carrot, bell pepper, and the white part of the scallions on top of the sauce, leaving out the broccoli for now.

Step 4: Seal the Instant Pot lid and set it to manual high pressure for 4 minutes.

Step 5: When the cooking is done, perform a quick pressure release to safely open the lid.

Step 6: Add the small broccoli florets and the green parts of the scallions, then stir the noodles gently with tongs to break up any clumps. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Close the lid without sealing and let it sit for 5 minutes to steam the broccoli.

Step 7: Open the lid, sprinkle sesame seeds and additional green onions on top if desired, then serve warm.

Tips & Variations

For a protein boost, add tofu, cooked chicken, or shrimp before sealing the Instant Pot.

Use gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-sensitive option.

Adjust the red chili paste to control the heat level—reduce or omit for a milder flavor.

If you prefer softer vegetables, chop them smaller or increase the steaming time after cooking.

FAQs

Can I use other types of noodles for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute spaghetti with chow mein, rice noodles, or even lo mein noodles. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, especially for thinner or more delicate noodles.

Is it necessary to steam the broccoli separately after pressure cooking?

Yes, adding the broccoli after the main cooking step and letting it steam with the lid closed prevents it from overcooking and becoming mushy. This keeps the broccoli tender-crisp and fresh-tasting.