Yaki Udon with Shrimp

Yaki Udon with Shrimp (Japanese Stir Fried Noodles) is one of those dishes that instantly brings joy to the table. Imagine a plate full of thick, chewy udon noodles, perfectly stir-fried with succulent shrimp and colorful veggies. The combination of flavors and textures creates a meal that’s both hearty and light—ideal for any night of the week. What I love about Yaki Udon is how quickly it comes together. You can have dinner ready in under 30 minutes! Plus, it’s super versatile. You can toss in whatever vegetables you have on hand, letting you personalize each batch to fit your tastes. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining friends, this dish is bound to impress. Let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into the cooking process!

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Why This Recipe Works

Yaki Udon with Shrimp is a delightful fusion of textures and flavors, maximizing the natural sweetness of shrimp and vegetables while being quick to prepare. The use of udon noodles ensures a hearty base that absorbs all the delicious sauces, creating a dish that’s satisfying yet light.

Why You’ll Love This Yaki Udon with Shrimp (Japanese Stir Fried Noodles)

This recipe is perfect for busy evenings or weekend gatherings. It’s not only delicious but also customizable with your favorite vegetables or proteins. The vibrant colors and enticing aromas will bring a taste of Japan right into your kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 pack (200g) udon noodles (preferably vacuum-packed)
• 2 tablespoons neutral oil (e.g., canola or vegetable oil)
• 8-10 shrimp (approx. 100g), peeled and deveined
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 yellow onion, sliced
• 8 white mushrooms, sliced (approx. 120g)
• 1 carrot, cut matchstick-style
• 1 spring onion (green & white parts separately chopped)
• 1 tablespoon regular soy sauce
• Pinch of salt and pepper
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce (NOT regular soy sauce)
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar
• ⅓ teaspoon freshly crushed black pepper
• 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
• Pinch of salt

Cooking Instructions

Boil the Udon Noodles

Bring a large pot of water to a boil, add the udon noodles, and cook according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and rinse with cold water. Drizzle a little oil to prevent sticking and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pan, heat 1 tablespoon of neutral oil over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and toast for about 1 minute. Then, add the sliced mushrooms and stir-fry until they are cooked.

Add Onions and Carrots

In the same pan, toss in the sliced onions, white parts of the spring onion, and matchstick-carrots. Stir for 2-3 minutes, until vegetables are slightly tender. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper before removing the veggies from the pan.

Cook the Shrimp

In the same pan, add an additional tablespoon of oil and fry the shrimp. Once they start turning pink, add regular soy sauce and a pinch of salt, cooking until the shrimp are fully cooked.

Incorporate the Noodles

Add the boiled udon noodles to the pan with shrimp and fry on high heat, stirring continuously to achieve a slightly crisp texture on the noodles.

Add the Sauce

Pour in the mixture of oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, crushed black pepper, and toasted sesame oil. Stir everything together to ensure the noodles and shrimp are well coated.

Toss in the Vegetables

Reintroduce the sautéed vegetables to the pan, mixing well with the noodles and shrimp. Turn off the heat and sprinkle with the green parts of the spring onion.

Serve and Enjoy

Transfer to plates, garnish with additional spring onion if desired, and enjoy your homemade Yaki Udon with Shrimp!

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Yaki Udon with a side of pickled ginger or a simple cucumber salad for a refreshing complement.

Tips for Success

• Don’t overcook the shrimp; they should be bright pink and opaque when done.
• Feel free to add additional vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for extra color and nutrients.
• Use high heat for stir-frying to achieve that perfect texture on the noodles.

Variations

• Substitute shrimp with chicken, beef, or tofu for a protein swap.
• Experiment with different sauces, like teriyaki, for a different flavor profile.
• Add spices or chili oil for a spicy kick.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of water to refresh the noodles.

Pairing Ideas

Pair your Yaki Udon with a light Japanese sake or a chilled green tea to enhance your meal experience.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of noodles?
Yes, while udon is traditional, you can use soba or rice noodles as alternatives. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe includes soy sauce and udon noodles which typically contain gluten. Use gluten-free soy sauce and noodles for a gluten-free version.

3. How spicy is Yaki Udon with Shrimp?
This recipe is mild, but you can add chili flakes or sriracha for some heat.

4. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap shrimp for tofu and use plant-based sauces.

5. What’s the best way to reheat Yaki Udon?
Reheat in a skillet with a little bit of water or oil to prevent sticking, stirring until warm.

Yaki Udon with Shrimp is not just a dish; it’s a delightful experience of flavor and comfort. With its vibrant ingredients and quick preparation, it promises to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Enjoy the taste of Japan in mere moments!

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