Udon Noodles Recipe

Udon noodles recipe is a hearty and versatile staple in Japanese cuisine. Loved for their thick, chewy texture, these noodles are perfect for soaking up rich broths or for stir-frying with vibrant vegetables and proteins. Whether you’re looking for a comforting bowl of noodle soup on a chilly day or a quick and satisfying stir-fry, this guide will walk you through the process of creating a delicious udon noodle dish from scratch.

A Brief History of Udon Noodles Recipe:

Udon noodles date back to ancient Japan, with origins tracing as far back as the Nara period (710–794 AD). It’s believed that Buddhist monks who brought milling techniques from China introduced these noodles to Japan. Over centuries, udon evolved into one of Japan’s most beloved comfort foods, celebrated for its adaptability to regional flavors. From the soy-based broths of Kansai to the miso-infused versions of Hokkaido, udon reflects the diversity of Japanese culinary traditions.

Udon Noodles Recipe

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Udon noodles date back to ancient Japan, with origins tracing as far back as the Nara period (710–794 AD). It's believed that these noodles were introduced to Japan by Buddhist monks who brought milling techniques from China.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Course Side Dish

Cuisine Chinese, Japanese

Servings 2

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• Medium-sized pot
• Strainer
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Ladle

Ingredients

  

For the Noodles:

• 200g fresh or frozen udon noodles

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For the Broth:

• 2 cups dashi (traditional Japanese stock)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp mirin (sweet rice wine)
• 1 tsp sugar (optional)

For Toppings:

• 1 boiled egg, halved
• ½ cup sliced shiitake mushrooms
• ½ cup chopped green onions
• ½ cup tempura flakes (optional, for crunch)
• 1 sheet of nori (seaweed), sliced

Instructions

 

• Prepare the Broth

  In a medium pot, combine the dashi, soy sauce, mirin, and sugar (if using).
• Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer.
• Taste and adjust the seasoning by adding more soy sauce or mirin to balance the flavors.
• Cook the Udon Noodles

  If using fresh or frozen udon noodles, boil them according to the package instructions (typically 2–3 minutes).
• Drain the noodles in a strainer and briefly rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and remove excess starch.
• Assemble the Dish

  Divide the cooked noodles evenly into two bowls.
• Pour the hot broth over the noodles using a ladle.
• Arrange the toppings—boiled egg, shiitake mushrooms, green onions, tempura flakes, and nori—on top of the noodles.
• Serve and Enjoy

  Serve immediately with chopsticks or a spoon.
• For added flavor, consider sprinkling a bit of shichimi togarashi (Japanese chili powder) or sesame seeds on top.

Video

Keyword Udon Noodles Recipe

Similar Recipes to Try:

Yaki Udon (Stir-Fried Udon): A savory stir-fry with vegetables, soy sauce, and your choice of protein.
Curry Udon: Thick udon noodles served in a rich Japanese curry broth.
Tempura Udon: Udon served with crispy, golden tempura shrimp or vegetables.
Zaru Udon: A chilled udon dish served with a soy-based dipping sauce, perfect for summer.

Frequently Asked Questions About Udon Noodles Recipe:

1. Can I use dried udon noodles?

Yes! Just follow the cooking instructions on the package. Fresh or frozen noodles are recommended for their chewy texture, but dried noodles work well too.

2. What is dashi, and can I substitute it?

Dashi is a Japanese stock made from kombu (kelp) and bonito flakes. You can substitute it with chicken or vegetable stock if needed, but the flavor won’t be as authentic.

3. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Use a vegetarian dashi made from kombu and shiitake mushrooms and skip the boiled egg or tempura with shrimp.

4. What can I use instead of mirin?

You can substitute mirin with a mix of white sugar and rice vinegar or a splash of dry sherry.

5. How can I make the dish spicier?

Add chili oil, shichimi togarashi, or sliced red chilies to your broth or toppings.

6. What protein can I add?

Popular additions include sliced chicken, beef, shrimp, or tofu. Simply cook the protein separately and add it to the dish.

7. Can I freeze cooked udon noodles?

Yes, but it’s best to freeze them uncooked. If they’re already cooked, freeze in small portions and reheat directly in boiling water.

8. What’s the difference between udon and ramen?

Udon noodles are thicker and chewier, while ramen noodles are thinner and often curly, with a firmer bite.

Conclusion:

Making udon noodles at home is easier than you think! With a few key ingredients, you can recreate this beloved Japanese comfort food in your own kitchen. Whether enjoyed as a soup or stir-fried, udon noodles are endlessly versatile and satisfying. Try this recipe and bring a taste of Japan to your table today!

YouTube Video Credits:
Wandercooks