Yaki Udon Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Guide
This recipe will guide you through making delicious and authentic Yaki Udon at home. This dish is a fantastic weeknight meal, perfect for satisfying your cravings for savory and slightly sweet Japanese noodles. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients You'll Need:
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For the Noodles:
- 8 oz dried udon noodles
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sliced carrots
- 1 cup sliced bell peppers (any color)
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup sliced shiitake mushrooms (optional, but adds great flavor!)
- 8 oz firm tofu, pressed and cubed (optional, adds protein)
- 4-6 oz cooked shrimp or chicken (optional, adds protein)
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For the Sauce:
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons mirin (sweet rice wine)
- 1 tablespoon sake (optional, enhances flavor)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- ½ teaspoon sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Prepare the Noodles: Cook the udon noodles according to package directions. Rinse with cold water and drain well. Set aside. This ensures they don't stick together.
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Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Then add the carrots, bell peppers, broccoli, and mushrooms (if using). Stir-fry for another 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp. If adding tofu or protein, add it now and cook until heated through.
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Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, mirin, sake (if using), brown sugar, ginger, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using).
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Combine and Simmer: Add the cooked udon noodles to the wok or skillet with the vegetables and protein. Pour the sauce over the noodles and vegetables. Toss everything together to coat evenly. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve the yaki udon immediately. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for extra flavor and visual appeal.
Tips for the Best Yaki Udon:
- Don't overcook the noodles: Overcooked udon can become mushy. Follow the package directions carefully and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking.
- Adjust the sauce to your taste: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add more brown sugar. If you like it spicier, add more red pepper flakes.
- Add your favorite vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables, such as snow peas, zucchini, or bean sprouts.
- Make it a complete meal: Add protein like shrimp, chicken, or tofu for a more substantial meal.
- Garnish generously: A sprinkle of sesame seeds and chopped green onions adds visual appeal and extra flavor.
Keywords: Yaki Udon, Udon Noodle Recipe, Japanese Noodle Recipe, Easy Yaki Udon, Yaki Udon Recipe for Beginners, Homemade Yaki Udon, Savory Udon
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