Black Charcoal Pasta/Noodles

 

Black noodles for vegetarians typically refer to activated charcoal-infused pasta (or charcoal noodles), which gives a dramatic jet-black color without any animal products—unlike traditional squid ink pasta. The charcoal is flavorless and food-grade, adding no taste but a striking visual effect. These are widely available dried (look for "charcoal pasta," "black charcoal noodles," or brands with bamboo charcoal) and pair beautifully with creamy, garlicky, or vegetable-based sauces.

Here are some gorgeous vegetarian/vegan black charcoal noodle dishes for inspiration:

Basic Cooking Instructions for Dried Charcoal Black Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add salt generously (1-2 tablespoons per 4 quarts—the water should taste salty).

2. Add the black pasta and stir to prevent sticking.

3. Cook for 8-12 minutes (check package; aim for al dente). Taste-test near the end.

4. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain (no rinsing needed).

5. Toss immediately with sauce—the starchy water helps it coat evenly.

Easy Vegetarian Recipe: Black Charcoal Pasta with Creamy Mushroom Garlic Sauce (Serves 2-3, Ready in ~25 minutes)

This rich, umami-packed sauce complements the dramatic noodles perfectly—all vegetarian (easily vegan with plant-based substitutes).

Ingredients:

• 8-10 oz (225-300g) dried charcoal black pasta

• 12 oz (350g) mixed mushrooms (cremini, shiitake, oyster—sliced)

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter (use vegan butter for fully vegan)

• 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream/cashew cream for vegan)

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan (or nutritional yeast/vegan Parmesan)

• 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, or vegetable broth)

• Fresh thyme or parsley, chopped

• Salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste

• Lemon zest for brightness

Steps:

1. Cook the pasta as above.

2. While pasta boils, heat oil/butter in a large skillet over medium-high. Add mushrooms; sauté 6-8 minutes until browned and releasing juices (don't crowd—cook in batches if needed).

3. Add garlic and red pepper flakes; cook 1 minute until fragrant.

4. Pour in wine/broth; simmer 2 minutes to reduce.

5. Stir in cream and cheese/nutritional yeast. Simmer 3-5 minutes until thickened. Season with salt/pepper.

6. Add drained pasta to the skillet with a splash of reserved water. Toss to coat, adding more water for silkiness.

7. Finish with herbs and lemon zest. Serve hot!

Variations: Add spinach, cherry tomatoes, or roasted veggies for color contrast. For a lighter option, use a simple garlic-olive oil aglio e olio with chili flakes and parsley. Enjoy your stunning, vegetarian black noodle masterpiece!