Yaki Udon

Stir-Fried Udon Noodles with Vegetables and Protein

 

Craving a satisfying meal that's quick to prepare? Look no further than Yaki Udon! This classic Japanese dish features thick, chewy udon noodles stir-fried with a colorful mix of fresh vegetables and your choice of protein, all tossed in a savory sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this recipe serves two and is sure to become a household favorite.

 

What is Yaki Udon?

Yaki Udon (焼きうどん) is a popular stir-fry dish in Japanese cuisine that highlights the unique texture of udon noodles. Unlike yakisoba, which uses thinner wheat noodles, Yaki Udon features thick, hearty udon that absorbs the flavors of the sauce beautifully. This dish is highly customizable, allowing you to personalize it with your favorite proteins and vegetables, making it a great way to use up what you have on hand.

Key Features:

• Quick Preparation: Ready in about 15 minutes.
• Customizable Ingredients: Use any protein or vegetable you prefer.
• Hearty and Satisfying: A perfect balance of flavors and textures.

 

Ingredients

For the Noodles

• Udon noodles: 2 servings (approximately 500 g; can be fresh or frozen)
  • Tip: If using frozen, check the package for specific cooking instructions.

For the Stir-Fry

• Cooking oil: 2 tablespoons (vegetable oil for a neutral flavor or sesame oil for a nutty taste)
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced (adds aromatic flavor)
• Onion: ½ medium, sliced (preferably yellow or white for sweetness)
• Carrot: 1 medium, julienned (adds color and crunch)
• Cabbage: 1 cup, shredded (green cabbage or napa for tenderness)
• Bell pepper: 1 medium, sliced (any color for sweetness)
• Mushrooms: ½ cup, sliced (shiitake, button, or any favorite variety)
• Protein of choice: 200 g (thinly sliced chicken, beef, shrimp, pork, or tofu)
  • Tip: If using tofu, press and drain it beforehand for better texture.

For the Sauce

• Soy sauce: 3 tablespoons (for umami and saltiness)
• Mirin: 1 tablespoon (optional, adds a touch of sweetness)
• Oyster sauce: 1 tablespoon (or vegetarian oyster sauce for a plant-based option)
• Sugar: 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste; balances flavors)
• Black pepper: To taste (freshly ground for best flavor)

For Garnish

• Chopped scallions: For topping (adds freshness and color)
• Bonito flakes: Optional for added umami (skip for a vegetarian option)
• Sesame seeds: Optional for garnish (toasted for extra flavor)

 

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Yaki Udon

Step 1: Prepare the Udon Noodles

1. If using frozen udon noodles: Place them in a bowl of hot water for about 1 minute to loosen them. Drain and set aside.
2. If using fresh udon noodles: Rinse them under cold running water to remove excess starch and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Protein

1. Heat the Pan: In a large wok or frying pan, heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add Protein: Add your choice of protein (chicken, beef, shrimp, pork, or tofu). Stir-fry until browned and nearly cooked through, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the protein from the pan and set it aside on a plate.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

1. Add More Oil: In the same pan, add another tablespoon of cooking oil. Let it heat up for a few seconds.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Add the minced garlic and sliced onion. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
3. Add Carrot and Bell Pepper: Toss in the julienned carrot and sliced bell pepper. Stir-fry for about 2 minutes until they start to soften.
4. Add Cabbage and Mushrooms: Add the shredded cabbage and sliced mushrooms to the pan. Continue cooking until all vegetables are tender but still crisp, about another 2-3 minutes. Keep stirring to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Return Protein to the Pan: Add the cooked protein back into the pan with the sautéed vegetables.
2. Add Udon Noodles: Gently add the prepared udon noodles to the pan, breaking them apart if they clump together.
3. Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, mirin, oyster sauce, sugar, and black pepper. Pour this sauce over the noodle mixture.
4. Toss and Heat: Using tongs or chopsticks, toss everything together until well combined and heated through, about 2 minutes. Ensure the noodles are coated with the sauce and heated evenly.

Step 5: Serve

1. Divide into Bowls: Spoon the Yaki Udon into two bowls.
2. Garnish: Top with chopped scallions, bonito flakes, and sesame seeds if desired.
3. Enjoy: Serve hot and enjoy your homemade Yaki Udon!

 

Why You’ll Love This Yaki Udon Recipe

This Yaki Udon recipe is not only quick to prepare—taking about 15 minutes from start to finish—but also incredibly satisfying! The combination of chewy udon noodles with fresh vegetables and your choice of protein makes it a balanced meal perfect for any day of the week. Plus, it's easily adaptable; feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or proteins!

 

Tips for Perfect Yaki Udon

Use High Heat: Stir-frying on medium-high heat helps achieve a nice char on the noodles and vegetables, enhancing flavor and texture.

Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you're making a larger batch, stir-fry in smaller portions to prevent steaming the ingredients, which can make them soggy.

Prep Ahead: Have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking for a smooth and efficient cooking experience.

Customize with Sauces: Experiment with different sauces like chili garlic sauce for heat or teriyaki for sweetness. Adding a splash of rice vinegar can also brighten the dish.

Add Fresh Herbs: Consider garnishing with fresh herbs like cilantro or Thai basil for a pop of color and an aromatic boost.

 

Conclusion

With its rich flavors and comforting qualities, Yaki Udon is sure to become a staple in your home cooking repertoire! Whether you’re enjoying it on a busy weeknight or serving it at a casual gathering, this dish is sure to impress. Try this easy Yaki Udon recipe today for a taste of Japan right in your kitchen!

 

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