Yaki Udon

Vegetarian

Cuisine Japanese

Tags LowCalorie

Ingredients 10

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Story behind the dish

Yaki Udon is a beloved Japanese stir-fried noodle dish that brings comfort and vibrant flavor to any meal. It's like a warm hug in a bowl, with its chewy udon noodles covered in a savory-sweet sauce and packed with fresh vegetables. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish invites you to indulge in a little culinary adventure right in your own kitchen, blending simple ingredients into something utterly satisfying.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz (225 g) Udon Noodles
  • 2 tbsp Sesame Seed Oil
  • 1 sliced Onion
  • ½ cup Cabbage, shredded
  • ⅓ cup Shiitake Mushrooms, sliced
  • 4 Spring Onions, chopped
  • 2 tbsp Mirin
  • 1 tbsp Soy Sauce
  • 1 tbsp Caster Sugar
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce

Step-by-step

  1. Bring a large saucepan of water to a boil. Add ½ cup (120 ml) cold water along with the udon noodles. Since udon noodles are thick, starting with cold water helps them cook more evenly through the center. Cook fresh or frozen noodles for about 2 minutes, or until al dente. If using dried noodles, cook for approximately 5-6 minutes. Drain the noodles in a colander and set aside.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame seed oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and shredded cabbage. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables become tender and slightly caramelized.
  3. Add the sliced shiitake mushrooms and half of the chopped spring onions to the skillet. Continue cooking for another minute until the mushrooms soften.
  4. Pour in the remaining tablespoon of sesame oil and add the drained noodles to the skillet. If the noodles are cold, let them cook for a minute to heat through before proceeding.
  5. In a small bowl, mix together the mirin, soy sauce, caster sugar, and Worcestershire sauce to make the sauce. Pour this over the noodles and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything evenly and cook for a few more minutes until the mixture is sticky, piping hot, and fragrant.
  6. Sprinkle the remaining spring onions on top just before serving for a fresh crunch and burst of color.

Chef’s tips & serving ideas

  • For added protein, toss in cooked shrimp, chicken, or tofu during stir-frying.
  • Serve with a side of pickled ginger or a soft boiled egg for an extra special touch.

Closing thoughts

Yaki Udon is a glorious test of how simple, everyday ingredients can come together to create something hearty, flavorful, and utterly satisfying. Its chewy noodles coated in a glossy, savory sauce make it a comfort food classic worth mastering. Whether you're cooking for family or a quick solo meal, this dish promises warm smiles with every bite.