Udon noodles, a staple in Japanese cuisine, are a versatile and delicious addition to any meal. With their chewy texture and slightly sweet flavor, it’s no wonder why they’re so popular around the world. Whether you’re looking for a comforting bowl of hot soup or a refreshing cold salad, udon has got you covered.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 mouth-watering udon recipes that cater to every palate and occasion. From spicy miso udon with succulent shrimp to creamy carbonara udon with crispy bacon, and from savory beef sukiyaki udon stir-fry to sweet kimchi udon with soft-boiled egg, we’ve got you covered.
Spicy Miso Udon with Shrimp
This recipe combines the rich flavors of miso paste and spicy gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes) with the comforting warmth of udon noodles. The addition of succulent shrimp adds protein-packed punch to this savory dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 package udon noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 tablespoons miso paste
– 1 teaspoon gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes)
– 4 cups dashi broth (or chicken/vegetable stock)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Scallions, thinly sliced, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat oil over medium-high. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add garlic and ginger; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Whisk together miso paste and gochugaru; add to pan and stir to combine with garlic and ginger mixture.
5. Pour in dashi broth (or stock) and bring to a simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
6. Add cooked shrimp back into the pan, tossing to coat with miso sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with thinly sliced scallions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Carbonara Udon with Bacon
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy twist on the classic Italian dish, featuring Japanese udon noodles and crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of udon noodles
– 4 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup of heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add the cooked udon noodles, cooked bacon, and butter to the egg mixture. Toss until well combined.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes over low heat, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegetable Tempura Udon Soup
Savor the flavors of Japan with this comforting and nutritious Vegetable Tempura Udon Soup. This recipe combines tender udon noodles, crispy vegetable tempura, and a savory broth for a delightful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of udon noodles
– 2 cups of water or dashi broth (Japanese cooking stock)
– 1/2 cup of vegetable oil
– 1 cup of mixed vegetables (e.g., carrots, zucchini, bell peppers) sliced into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup of tempura batter mix
– 1/2 cup of ice-cold soda water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions and grated daikon for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
3. Prepare the tempura batter by mixing the tempura batter mix with soda water in a bowl. Dip the sliced vegetables into the batter, making sure they are fully coated.
4. Fry the battered vegetables in batches until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
5. In the same pot, add the dashi broth or water and bring to a simmer.
6. Add cooked udon noodles, tempura vegetables, and salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
7. Serve hot, garnished with scallions and grated daikon if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef Sukiyaki Udon Stir-Fry
Savor the flavors of Japan with this quick and easy stir-fry recipe that combines tender beef, savory sukiyaki sauce, and chewy udon noodles.
Ingredients:
– 200g beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 1 medium onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sukiyaki sauce
– 8 oz udon noodles
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large wok or frying pan, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil if necessary. Add sliced onions and minced garlic; cook until onions are translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add mixed mushrooms to the pan and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Pour in sukiyaki sauce and stir to combine. Return beef strips to the pan and stir-fry everything together for about 1 minute.
6. Combine cooked udon noodles with the beef and mushroom mixture. Stir-fry for another minute to distribute flavors evenly.
7. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Kimchi Udon with Soft-Boiled Egg
This recipe combines the creamy texture of udon noodles, the spicy kick of kimchi, and the richness of a soft-boiled egg. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 200g udon noodles
– 1/2 cup kimchi (homemade or store-bought), chopped
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 soft-boiled egg, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sesame seeds, chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (2-3 minutes).
3. Add kimchi and stir-fry until combined with the onion mixture.
4. Add cooked udon noodles and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes to combine.
5. Serve hot, topped with sliced soft-boiled egg.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Green Curry Udon Noodles
A vibrant and flavorful twist on traditional Thai green curry, this recipe combines the rich flavors of coconut milk, fish sauce, and lemongrass with the chewy texture of udon noodles. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package udon noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 cups Thai green curry paste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup water or chicken broth
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in curry paste; cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in coconut milk, water or broth, fish sauce, and brown sugar. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low; let curry simmer for 10-15 minutes or until thickened slightly.
6. Add cooked udon noodles to the curry; toss to combine.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken Udon Bowl
Savor the harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors with this Japanese-inspired Teriyaki Chicken Udon Bowl recipe. This comforting bowl is a perfect combination of tender chicken, springy udon noodles, and a rich teriyaki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, green beans)
– 1 cup cooked udon noodles
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a separate pan, heat 1 tbsp of oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tbsp of oil. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 4-5 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce and garlic. Pour the sauce over the cooked chicken and vegetables. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. To assemble the bowls, place cooked udon noodles at the bottom, followed by the chicken and vegetable mixture. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Seafood Udon in Spicy Broth
This recipe combines the comforting warmth of udon noodles with the bold flavors of spicy seafood broth, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package udon noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, mussels), cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups spicy broth (see below)
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Spicy Broth:
– 2 cups dashi broth or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large wok or pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add seafood and cook until pink and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Pour in spicy broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in soy sauce.
5. Combine cooked noodles with seafood and broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with green onions and toasted sesame seeds. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Udon with Mushrooms
Transform your noodles into a savory delight with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of garlic butter, the earthiness of mushrooms, and the chewiness of udon noodles.
Ingredients:
– 200g udon noodles
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add mushrooms to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes until they release their moisture and start to brown.
4. Add soy sauce and sesame oil to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Add cooked udon noodles to the skillet, tossing to coat with the garlic butter mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cold Udon Salad with Sesame Dressing
A refreshing summer salad that combines the chewy texture of cold udon noodles with the nutty flavor of sesame dressing and a variety of crunchy vegetables. Perfect for hot days when you need a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cold udon noodles
– 1/2 cup sesame oil
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1/4 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup diced carrots
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions, then chill in the refrigerator.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and grated ginger.
3. In a large bowl, combine cold udon noodles, chopped scallions, diced cucumber, and diced carrots.
4. Pour sesame dressing over the noodle mixture and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Pork Belly Udon with Scallions
This hearty and savory dish combines the rich flavors of pork belly with the comforting warmth of udon noodles, finished with a hint of crunch from scallions.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork belly (or 6 oz bacon), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups udon noodles
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp sake (optional)
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tsp grated ginger
– 2 scallions, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan, combine pork belly strips, vegetable broth, soy sauce, sake (if using), brown sugar, and grated ginger. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the pork is tender.
3. Add cooked udon noodles to the saucepan and stir to combine.
4. Divide the mixture among bowls and garnish with thinly sliced scallions. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tofu and Spinach Udon Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of Japanese flavors, featuring tender udon noodles, soft spinach, and silky tofu. With its rich broth and delicate balance of savory and slightly sweet notes, this dish is sure to warm your heart and belly.
Ingredients:
– 1 package udon noodles
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, combine vegetable broth, tofu, and soy sauce. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Add spinach leaves to the pot and cook until wilted.
4. Stir in sesame oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked udon noodles with the soup mixture. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemongrass Coconut Udon with Shrimp
This refreshing noodle dish combines the creamy richness of coconut milk with the bright, citrusy flavor of lemongrass and succulent shrimp. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package udon noodles
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add lemongrass and cook until fragrant, 30 seconds.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stir in coconut milk, soy sauce, and ginger. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add cooked noodles and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Peanut Udon Noodles
A flavorful fusion of spicy and savory, this recipe combines the comfort of udon noodles with the boldness of peanut sauce and a kick of heat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup udon noodles
– 2 tablespoons peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Chopped scallions and peanuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Blend until smooth.
3. Heat the peanut sauce in a small saucepan over medium heat until warm and well combined.
4. Add cooked udon noodles to the peanut sauce and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions and peanuts, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Udon with Grilled Eggplant and Miso Glaze
Savor the rich flavors of Japan with this hearty udon noodle dish, featuring smoky grilled eggplant and a sweet miso glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound udon noodles
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (or dry white wine)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Brush eggplant slices with oil and season with salt, pepper, and garlic. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender.
3. In a small saucepan, whisk together miso paste, soy sauce, sake, brown sugar, and 2 tablespoons water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 5 minutes, or until glaze thickens slightly.
4. Toss cooked udon noodles with grilled eggplant slices and drizzle with miso glaze. Garnish with green onions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Curry Udon with Crispy Tofu
This Japanese-inspired recipe combines the rich flavors of curry sauce with the comforting warmth of udon noodles and the satisfying crunch of crispy tofu.
Ingredients:
– 1 package udon noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add onion and garlic. Cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in curry powder and cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add broth and water, whisking to combine. Bring to a simmer.
6. Add cooked udon noodles and tofu to the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Udon Stir-Fry with Bok Choy and Ginger
This savory stir-fry combines the comforting warmth of udon noodles with the crunch of bok choy and the zing of ginger. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup udon noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 piece fresh ginger, peeled and grated (about 1 tablespoon)
– 1 bunch bok choy, cleaned and chopped into bite-sized pieces
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: soy sauce or sesame oil for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add sliced onion and cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic and grated ginger; stir-fry for another minute.
5. Add chopped bok choy; stir-fry until tender, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Combine cooked udon noodles with the vegetable mixture; season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds or green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Udon in Creamy Mushroom Sauce
A comforting Japanese-inspired dish that combines tender udon noodles with a rich and creamy mushroom sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of udon noodles
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth; stir to combine. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked udon noodles and mushroom sauce. Toss to coat.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: approximately 20-25 minutes
Udon with Sweet Chili Glazed Salmon
This recipe combines the rich flavors of sweet chili glaze with the tender goodness of grilled salmon, served atop a bed of springy udon noodles. A perfect balance of sweet and savory, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb salmon fillet
– 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 8 oz udon noodles
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, and grated ginger.
3. Brush the glaze on both sides of the salmon fillet and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Serve grilled salmon atop udon noodles and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Udon Hot Pot with Assorted Vegetables
Warm up on a chilly day with this comforting and flavorful Japanese-inspired hot pot recipe. Udon noodles and assorted vegetables are cooked to perfection in a savory broth, making for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 200g udon noodles
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (optional)
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Assorted vegetables:
+ 1 carrot, sliced
+ 1 zucchini, sliced
+ 1 bell pepper, sliced
+ 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
+ 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
Instructions:
1. Bring the vegetable broth to a simmer in a large pot.
2. Add soy sauce, sake (if using), and sugar. Stir until dissolved.
3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Add sliced vegetables to the pot and cook until they’re tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Serve hot with cooked udon noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your noodle game! This article presents 20 mouth-watering udon recipes that cater to every taste and occasion. From spicy miso udon with shrimp to creamy carbonara udon with bacon, and from vegetable tempura udon soup to sweet chili glazed salmon udon hot pot, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting bowl of noodles or a flavorful stir-fry, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
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