Are you ready to level up your noodle game? Look no further than udon, a type of Japanese noodle that’s perfect for a wide range of dishes. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy and savory or creamy and comforting, we’ve got you covered with these 20 flavorful udon recipes.
From classic stir-fries to hearty soups and noodle bowls, our collection has something for every occasion. Want to add some heat to your meal? Try our Spicy Beef Udon Stir-Fry or our Kimchi Udon with Tofu. Looking for a comforting bowl of goodness? Our Creamy Mushroom Udon Soup is sure to hit the spot.
And that’s just the beginning – we’ve also got recipes for everything from vegetarian curries to seafood hot pots and even some unexpected twists, like our Udon Carbonara with Bacon. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, these udon recipes are sure to inspire your next meal.
Spicy Beef Udon Stir-Fry
A flavorful and spicy stir-fry that combines tender beef, chewy udon noodles, and a variety of vegetables, all cooked to perfection in a savory soy-based sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups udon noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (red, yellow, green)
– 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add onion and garlic and cook until onion is translucent, about 2 minutes.
4. Add bell peppers and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in Gochujang, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Add cooked beef back into the pan and stir to combine.
6. Cook for an additional minute to allow flavors to meld together.
7. Serve hot over cooked udon noodles and garnish with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Udon Soup
This comforting and flavorful soup is a perfect blend of earthy mushrooms, velvety cream, and springy udon noodles. Cozy up with a warm bowl on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 8 oz udon noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add mushrooms, garlic, and onion; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Pour in chicken broth; bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Stir in heavy cream; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. Add cooked noodles to the pot; stir until coated with creamy mushroom sauce.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken Udon Bowl
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of Japan with this easy-to-make Teriyaki Chicken Udon Bowl recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 8 oz udon noodles
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 2 green onions, 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 skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining teriyaki sauce and bring to a simmer. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Combine cooked chicken, noodles, and vegetable mixture in a bowl. Top with green onions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegetarian Curry Udon
A hearty and flavorful Japanese-inspired noodle dish, Vegetarian Curry Udon is a perfect blend of Eastern spices and Western comfort food. With its rich curry sauce, springy udon noodles, and variety of vegetables, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 package udon noodles
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 large bell pepper, sliced
– 1 small zucchini, sliced
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup water
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add carrots, bell pepper, zucchini, onion, and garlic; cook for 5 minutes or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
3. Stir in curry powder, cumin, and turmeric; cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in broth and water; bring to a simmer.
5. Combine cooked noodles and sauce mixture; serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Shrimp Udon Noodles
This recipe combines the flavors of garlic shrimp with the comforting warmth of udon noodles, creating a delightful and easy-to-make meal. Perfect for a quick dinner or lunch, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 8 oz udon noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Pour in the soy sauce and sake (or wine). Bring to a simmer and cook for 2 minutes, until slightly thickened.
5. Add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet and toss with the garlic-soy mixture.
6. Serve the shrimp over the cooked udon noodles. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Kimchi Udon with Tofu
A twist on traditional Japanese udon noodles, this recipe combines the spicy kick of Korean kimchi with the creamy richness of tofu.
Ingredients:
– 1 package udon noodles
– 2 cups kimchi (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add tofu and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned.
4. Stir in kimchi and soy sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
5. Add cooked udon noodles to the skillet or wok; toss to combine with kimchi mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tempura Udon with Dashi Broth
Satisfy your cravings with this hearty and comforting Japanese dish that combines tender udon noodles, crispy tempura bits, and a rich dashi broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of udon noodles
– 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup of ice-cold soda water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 1/2 cup of mixed vegetables (e.g., carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers)
– 1/4 cup of dashi broth powder (or store-bought dashi broth)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: tempura bits (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a bowl, mix together flour and soda water to form a batter.
3. Dip mixed vegetables into the batter, then fry in hot oil until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
4. In a large pot, combine dashi broth powder (or store-bought broth) with 2 cups of water. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add cooked udon noodles and tempura bits (if using) to the broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes.
Sweet and Sour Pork Udon
This recipe combines the savory flavors of Japanese udon noodles with the tangy sweetness of a classic sweet and sour pork dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound udon noodles
– 1/2 cup sweet and sour sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
– 1 pound pork tenderloin, sliced into thin strips
– Vegetable oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together sweet and sour sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch. Set aside.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add pork strips and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the sweet and sour sauce mixture to the skillet and stir to coat the pork evenly.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Serve pork and sauce over cooked udon noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai-Inspired Peanut Udon
This recipe combines the comfort of udon noodles with the bold flavors of Thai cuisine, featuring a rich and creamy peanut sauce. A perfect fusion of East meets West!
Ingredients:
– 1 package udon noodles
– 2 tablespoons peanut oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 1/4 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and 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 large wok or skillet, heat peanut oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mixed mushrooms; cook until tender, 5 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and grated ginger. Pour into the wok or skillet; stir to combine.
5. Combine cooked udon noodles with the peanut sauce mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped scallions and peanuts if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Seafood Udon Hot Pot
Get ready to warm up with this flavorful and filling Seafood Udon Hot Pot recipe! This Japanese-inspired dish is perfect for a cozy night in with friends or family.
Ingredients:
– 200g udon noodles
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, mussels), cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 4 cups chicken or seafood broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sake (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sliced green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the seafood; cook for 2-3 minutes or until it starts to turn pink.
4. Pour in the broth, water, soy sauce, and sake (if using); bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low; simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the seafood is cooked through.
6. Cook the udon noodles according to package instructions; add to the hot pot and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with green onions.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Miso Udon with Egg
Elevate your noodle game with this spicy and savory Japanese-inspired dish that combines the creamy richness of miso with the comfort of a runny egg.
Ingredients:
– 1 package udon noodles
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 large egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, thinly sliced, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a small saucepan, combine miso paste, gochujang, and vegetable broth. Whisk until smooth.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Add water and whisk until combined.
4. Crack an egg into a small bowl and whisk lightly. Slowly pour the egg into the hot miso mixture. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the whites are set and the yolks are still runny.
5. Divide cooked udon noodles among bowls. Ladle the spicy miso sauce over the noodles, followed by a spoonful of the egg mixture. Garnish with thinly sliced scallions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemongrass Chicken Udon
This recipe combines the aromatic flavors of lemongrass with juicy chicken, springy udon noodles, and a hint of sweetness. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 8 oz udon noodles
– 2 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add lemongrass, garlic, soy sauce, honey, and ginger. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until fragrant.
4. Add cooked udon noodles, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until the noodles are well coated.
5. Serve hot, garnished with scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef Sukiyaki Udon
Savor the flavors of Japan with this hearty Beef Sukiyaki Udon recipe, a comforting and savory noodle dish featuring tender beef, succulent vegetables, and rich soy sauce-based broth.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz udon noodles
– 1 lb beef strips (such as ribeye or sirloin)
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, carrots, mushrooms)
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 4 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 tbsp mirin (sweet Japanese cooking wine)
– 1 tsp sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Green onions and sesame seeds 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 beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add soy sauce, sake, mirin, sugar, salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir to combine.
5. Add cooked beef back into the pan and stir to coat with the sauce.
6. Serve hot over cooked udon noodles, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegetable Stir-Fry Udon
Quickly cook up a flavorful and nutritious Vegetable Stir-Fry Udon using this easy recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of udon noodles (about 8 oz)
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, and snap peas)
– 2 teaspoons of soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup of chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the sliced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until they are tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
6. Stir in soy sauce and sesame oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Combine cooked udon noodles with the vegetable mixture. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Udon Carbonara with Bacon
Udon Carbonara with Bacon: A Twist on a Classic Italian Dish
This creamy Udon Carbonara with crispy bacon adds an Asian-inspired twist to the traditional Italian pasta dish. Perfect for those looking for a unique fusion of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 200g udon noodles
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 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 pan over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and flour. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add cooked udon noodles to the egg mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Add the crispy bacon to the noodle mixture and stir until coated evenly.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes over low heat, stirring constantly, until the eggs are cooked through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chili Oil Udon with Scallions
This recipe combines the comforting warmth of udon noodles with the bold flavors of chili oil and scallions. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 package udon noodles
– 2 tablespoons chili oil
– 1/4 cup thinly sliced scallions (white and green parts)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat the chili oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the sliced scallions and cook until they start to soften, about 2 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
5. Combine the cooked udon noodles with the scallion-garlic mixture.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Udon Salad with Sesame Dressing
This Japanese-inspired salad combines chewy udon noodles, crunchy vegetables, and a nutty sesame dressing for a deliciously refreshing meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz udon noodles
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and lettuce)
– 1 cup sliced cucumber
– 1 cup sliced carrots
– 1/2 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cucumber, carrots, and red bell pepper.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame seeds, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey until smooth.
4. Pour the sesame dressing over the noodle mixture and toss to coat.
5. Add cooked udon noodles and toss gently to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Udon with Grilled Salmon
This recipe combines the rich flavors of grilled salmon with the comforting warmth of udon noodles, creating a satisfying and flavorful meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz udon noodles
– 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Green onions, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, olive oil, honey, and ginger. Brush the mixture on both sides of the salmon fillets.
3. Grill the salmon for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions.
5. Slice grilled salmon into thick strips.
6. Combine cooked udon noodles with sliced salmon and garnish with green onions (if using).
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Udon in Spicy Tomato Broth
Revamp your noodle game with this vibrant and spicy Udon dish, bursting with the flavors of fresh tomatoes and Korean chili flakes. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 package Udon noodles
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook Udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, combine water, diced tomatoes, garlic, Gochujang, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add cooked Udon noodles to the broth and toss to combine. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Udon with Fried Tofu and Greens
Savor the comfort of a Japanese-inspired bowl, combining chewy udon noodles, crispy fried tofu, and wilted greens. Perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 package udon noodles
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed greens (such as spinach, kale, and arugula)
– 2 cups water or dashi broth (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil over medium-high. Add tofu and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon vegetable oil. Sauté onion and garlic until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add mixed greens to the skillet, stirring until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked udon noodles, fried tofu, and green mixture in a bowl. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your udon game with these 20 flavorful recipes for every occasion! From spicy beef stir-fries to creamy mushroom soups, and from teriyaki chicken bowls to vegetarian curry dishes, there’s something for everyone. Try garlic shrimp noodles, kimchi udon with tofu, or tempura udon in a dashi broth. Or, go sweet with sweet and sour pork udon or Thai-inspired peanut udon. And don’t forget seafood hot pots, spicy miso soups, and more! These recipes are sure to delight your taste buds and inspire you to get cooking.