Udon noodles are a staple in Japanese cuisine, and for good reason. Their chewy texture and mild flavor make them a versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide variety of dishes. From hearty soups to quick stir-fries, udon noodles can be used as a base for many different meals. In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious udon recipes that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a comforting bowl of hot soup or a light and refreshing salad, there’s something on this list for everyone.
From classic dishes like Spicy Miso Udon Noodle Soup to modern twists like Cheesy Udon Carbonara, these recipes showcase the versatility and flavor of udon noodles. So grab your favorite ingredients and get ready to explore the world of udon!
Spicy Miso Udon Noodle Soup
Warm up with this spicy and savory Japanese-inspired soup that combines the comforting flavors of udon noodles, miso paste, and bold spices.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz udon noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add cumin, red pepper flakes, and broth; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Stir in miso paste and cook for an additional 2 minutes or until heated through.
5. Add cooked udon noodles to the pot; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken Udon Stir-Fry
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of Japan with this easy-to-make Teriyaki Chicken Udon Stir-Fry. This quick-cooking dish combines juicy chicken, tender udon noodles, and a rich teriyaki sauce for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed veggies (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 1 cup cooked udon noodles
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes; remove from pan.
4. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and mixed veggies. Cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce and soy sauce. Pour into the skillet with veggies; simmer for 2 minutes.
6. Add cooked chicken back to the pan; stir to combine with veggies and sauce. Cook for an additional minute.
7. Combine cooked udon noodles with the chicken mixture; season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegetarian Curry Udon with Tofu
A flavorful and filling vegetarian curry udon dish that combines the comfort of a hearty noodle soup with the creaminess of tofu and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– 8 oz udon noodles
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, carrots, and green beans)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the curry powder, cumin, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the vegetable broth, tofu, and mixed vegetables. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Serve the curry udon hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef Sukiyaki Udon Hot Pot
This Japanese-inspired hot pot recipe combines the rich flavors of beef sukiyaki with the hearty goodness of udon noodles. A perfect meal for a chilly evening, this dish is sure to warm your belly and your heart.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups dashi broth (or substitute with chicken or beef broth)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon mirin (sweet Japanese cooking sake)
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 cup udon noodles
– 1/4 cup sliced mushrooms
– 1/4 cup diced green onions
– Sesame seeds and grated daikon radish for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine dashi broth, soy sauce, mirin, and sugar. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the udon noodles, mushrooms, and green onions to the pot. Cook for an additional 5 minutes or until the noodles are cooked through.
4. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and grated daikon radish.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Udon Pasta
A comforting and flavorful Japanese-inspired pasta dish that combines the richness of mushrooms with the creaminess of udon noodles.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. udon noodles
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish (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 onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in heavy cream and soy sauce. Stir to combine, then bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
6. Add cooked udon noodles to the skillet; toss to coat with mushroom sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tempura Udon with Shrimp and Vegetables
Savor the flavors of Japan with this harmonious blend of tempura-battered shrimp and vegetables served over a steaming bowl of udon noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup udon noodles
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sake (Japanese rice wine)
– 1 teaspoon tempura batter mix
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, mushrooms, green beans)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sake, and tempura batter mix. Add shrimp and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
4. Remove shrimp from marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Fry shrimp in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
5. In the same oil, fry mixed vegetables until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Serve tempura shrimp and vegetables over cooked udon noodles. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Kimchi Udon with Fried Egg
A harmonious fusion of spicy Korean kimchi and Japanese udon noodles, topped with a crispy fried egg. This bold and savory dish will awaken your taste buds!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup kimchi (store-bought or homemade)
– 200g udon noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the kimchi to the skillet and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Crack the egg into the skillet and cook until the whites are set and the yolks are cooked to your desired doneness.
5. Add the cooked udon noodles to the skillet and toss everything together.
6. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Seafood Udon in Dashi Broth
A classic Japanese noodle dish, Seafood Udon is a comforting and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines tender udon noodles with succulent seafood and savory dashi broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of udon noodles
– 2 cups of dashi broth (see note)
– 1/2 cup of mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, mussels, etc.)
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until softened.
3. Add the seafood and cook for 2-3 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
4. Pour in the dashi broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Add the cooked udon noodles to the pot and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Udon with Scallops
A rich and savory Japanese-inspired dish that combines the flavors of garlic butter, succulent scallops, and chewy udon noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 package udon noodles
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 12 large scallops
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
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 sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add scallops to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are opaque and cooked through.
4. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and simmer for an additional minute to reduce the liquid slightly.
5. Stir in soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked udon noodles with the garlic butter scallops. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chili Oil Udon with Ground Pork
This recipe combines the comfort of Japanese udon noodles with the bold flavors of Korean chili oil and ground pork. The result is a hearty, spicy dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 package udon noodles
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1/4 cup chili oil
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Scallions, thinly sliced, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, cook ground pork over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in soy sauce, Gochujang, and chili oil. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Add cooked udon noodles to the skillet and toss to combine with the pork and sauce.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with thinly sliced scallions.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cold Udon Salad with Sesame Dressing
A refreshing summer salad that combines the chewiness of udon noodles with the nutty flavor of sesame dressing.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz udon noodles
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and lettuce)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup sliced red onion
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the udon noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and toasted sesame seeds.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and sesame oil.
4. Add the cooked udon noodles to the salad bowl and toss with the sesame dressing.
5. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cheesy Udon Carbonara
A creative twist on the classic Italian dish, this Cheesy Udon Carbonara combines the richness of udon noodles with the creaminess of a carbonara. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz udon noodles
– 4 oz bacon or pancetta, diced
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook bacon or pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens.
4. Add cooked udon noodles to the egg mixture and stir to combine.
5. Add heavy cream and cooked bacon or pancetta to the noodle mixture. Stir until combined.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Tantan Udon with Minced Beef
A flavorful twist on traditional Japanese udon noodles, this spicy tantan dish combines the richness of minced beef with a bold and savory broth.
Ingredients:
– 200g udon noodles
– 250g minced beef
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 2 cups tantan sauce (see note)
– 1 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, thinly sliced 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, garlic, and ginger; stir-fry until the onion is translucent.
3. Add minced beef; cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Pour in tantan sauce and water; bring to a simmer.
5. Add cooked udon noodles; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until the noodles are well coated with the sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with scallions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemongrass Chicken Udon Soup
This flavorful soup combines the aromatic properties of lemongrass with tender chicken and springy udon noodles, perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 cup sliced scallions
– 8 oz udon noodles
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine lemongrass, chicken, chicken broth, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
2. Add soy sauce and sesame oil; stir well.
3. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Remove chicken from pot and shred into bite-sized pieces. Return chicken to the pot.
5. Stir in scallions. Simmer soup for an additional 5 minutes.
6. Serve hot, topped with cooked udon noodles.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Udon Noodle Stir-Fry with Bok Choy
A delicious and quick stir-fry recipe that combines the comforting warmth of udon noodles with the crunchy sweetness of bok choy. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of udon noodles
– 2 cups of mixed mushrooms (such as shiitake and cremini)
– 2 cups of bok choy, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the mushrooms and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the bok choy and garlic to the skillet. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the greens are wilted.
4. Add the cooked noodles to the skillet. Pour in the soy sauce and stir-fry for about 1 minute, coating the noodles evenly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with thinly sliced scallions (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai-Inspired Peanut Udon Noodles
Elevate your noodle game with this flavorful and aromatic Thai-inspired peanut udon noodles dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 200g udon noodles
– 2 tbsp creamy natural peanut butter
– 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions, for garnish
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a small saucepan, whisk together peanut butter, ginger, soy sauce, honey, and water. Bring mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let the sauce thicken for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add cooked udon noodles to the sauce and toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Udon with Miso-Glazed Eggplant
A harmonious fusion of Japanese flavors and textures, this recipe combines the comforting warmth of udon noodles with the sweet and savory essence of miso-glazed eggplant.
Ingredients:
– 200g udon noodles
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste, soy sauce, sake, rice vinegar, and sugar.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brush both sides of eggplant slices with the miso glaze.
4. Cook eggplant for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender and caramelized. Remove from heat.
5. In a separate pot, cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. Combine cooked udon noodles and miso-glazed eggplant slices in a serving bowl. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions (if desired).
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Tomato Udon with Basil
A vibrant and flavorful Japanese noodle dish that combines the richness of udon noodles with the brightness of fresh basil, all wrapped up in a spicy tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz udon noodles
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup sake (or dry white wine)
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, cherry tomatoes, soy sauce, sake, water, and gochujang. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, or until tomatoes have broken down and the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Add cooked udon noodles to the skillet and stir-fry for an additional minute, ensuring noodles are well coated with the spicy tomato sauce.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Udon Noodle Bowl with Crispy Tofu
Savor the flavors of Japan with this simple and satisfying recipe that combines crispy tofu, savory udon noodles, and a medley of vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as shiitake and cremini)
– 1 cup udon noodles
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together cornstarch and sesame oil.
3. Add tofu pieces and toss until coated.
4. Place tofu on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes or until crispy.
5. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions.
6. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add mushrooms and cook until tender.
7. Combine vegetable broth, soy sauce, and cooked noodles in the skillet. Stir-fry until heated through.
8. Serve crispy tofu on top of noodle mixture, garnished with scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Udon with Black Garlic and Mushrooms
Savor the rich flavors of Japan with this hearty udon noodle dish, infused with the pungent charm of black garlic and earthy goodness of mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 1 package udon noodles
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (e.g., shiitake, cremini), sliced
– 3 cloves black garlic, minced
– 4 cups dashi broth (or vegetable broth)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh green onions and grated daikon for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start browning, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in black garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Pour in dashi broth (or vegetable broth) and bring to a simmer.
6. Add cooked udon noodles to the skillet and toss with sauce until well coated.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and grated daikon if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meal routine with these 20 flavorful udon recipes! From classic Japanese dishes like Spicy Miso Udon Noodle Soup and Teriyaki Chicken Udon Stir-Fry, to international twists like Thai-Inspired Peanut Udon Noodles, there’s something for every occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting hot pot or a quick and easy stir-fry, these udon recipes are sure to impress. With a variety of flavors and ingredients, from miso and curry to seafood and mushrooms, you’ll never get bored with this versatile noodle dish.
