If you’re a fan of stir-fried noodles, you should definitely try yaki udon. This Japanese dish is made with udon, a thick and chewy wheat noodle, cooked with an assortment of vegetables, protein, and a savory sauce. The result is a flavorful and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner.
What is Yaki Udon?
Yaki udon is a type of Japanese stir-fried noodles that is typically made with udon noodles, which are thicker than regular noodles, and stir-fried with vegetables, meat or seafood, soy sauce, and dashi, a Japanese fish stock. The ingredients are cooked together in a wok over high heat until the vegetables are tender, the meat is no longer pink, and the noodles are slightly browned and crispy. The dish is then seasoned with mirin, a sweet rice wine, and grated ginger, which add a subtle sweetness and aroma.
Ingredients
To make yaki udon, you will need the following ingredients:
– Udon noodles
– Vegetables (carrots, onions, cabbage, mushrooms, etc.)
– Protein (pork, chicken, beef, shrimp, etc.)
– Soy sauce
– Dashi
– Mirin
– Ginger
You can also add other ingredients to the dish, such as chili pepper, garlic, or sake to give it a more complex flavor.
Preparation
Preparing yaki udon is relatively easy and can be done in just a few simple steps.
Step 1: Cook the Udon Noodles
The first step is to cook the udon noodles according to the package directions. Once they are cooked, rinse them under cold water to remove excess starch and set them aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
Next, prepare the vegetables. Cut them into thin slices or julienne them so that they cook quickly and evenly. You can use any vegetables you like, such as carrots, onions, cabbage, mushrooms, bell peppers, or snap peas.
Step 3: Cook the Protein
If you are using meat or seafood, cook them in a separate pan until they are fully cooked. If you are using shrimp or other seafood, be careful not to overcook them as they will turn rubbery.
Step 4: Fry the Vegetables and Noodles
In a wok or large skillet, heat some oil over high heat. Add the vegetables and stir-fry them for a few minutes until they are slightly softened. Then add the cooked protein, the cooked udon noodles, soy sauce, and dashi. Stir-fry everything together until the noodles are slightly browned and crispy.
Step 5: Season with Mirin and Ginger
Finally, add the mirin and grated ginger and stir-fry for another minute to combine the flavors.
Serve hot and enjoy!
Conclusion
Yaki udon is a delicious and satisfying dish that is easy to make at home. With its savory sauce and chewy udon noodles, it’s a great meal to enjoy for lunch or dinner. Whether you’re a fan of stir-fried noodles or want to try something new, give yaki udon a try and experience the delicious taste of Japanese cuisine.