Yaki Udon with Shrimp

Yaki Udon with Shrimp is a quick and delicious Japanese noodles stir fry dish that brings vibrant flavors to your table. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, offering a delightful combination of tender udon noodles, succulent shrimp, and fresh vegetables. The unique blend of sauces adds depth, making every bite an enjoyable experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation – With just 20 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Combination – The mix of garlic, soy sauce, and toasted sesame oil creates an irresistible taste.
• Versatile Ingredients – Customize with your favorite vegetables or proteins for a personal touch.
• Family-Friendly – A sure hit with kids and adults alike, making dinner time enjoyable for everyone.
• Nutrient-Rich – Packed with veggies and protein, this dish offers a balanced meal.

Tools and Preparation

To get started on your Yaki Udon with Shrimp, you’ll need some essential tools to make the cooking process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok or large frying pan
• Pot for boiling noodles
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or large frying pan – Ideal for stir-frying ingredients quickly at high heat, ensuring even cooking.
• Pot for boiling noodles – Necessary for cooking udon noodles until they’re perfectly tender.
• Cutting board & Knife – Essential for chopping vegetables safely and efficiently.

Ingredients

This Yaki Udon is a quick and delicious Japanese noodles stir fry dish with shrimp and veggies.

For the Noodles

• 200g udon noodles (preferably vacuum-packed)
• 2 tbsp neutral oil

For the Stir Fry

• 8-10 shrimp (approx 100g)
• 1 garlic (minced)
• 1 yellow onion (sliced)
• 8 white mushrooms (sliced, approx 120g)
• 1 carrot (cut matchstick-style)
• 1 spring onion (green & white separately chopped)

For the Sauce

• 1 tbsp regular soy sauce
• pinch salt and pepper
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tsp dark soy sauce (NOT regular one)
• 1 tsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp brown sugar
• 1/3 tsp freshly crushed black pepper
• 2 tsp toasted sesame oil
• pinch salt

How to Make Yaki Udon with Shrimp

Step 1: Boil the Noodles

1. Boil the udon noodles according to the package instructions.
2. Drain and rinse them with cold water.
3. Drizzle some oil over them to prevent sticking and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Heat 1 tbsp of neutral oil in a wok or large frying pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and toast it for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms; stir-fry until they are cooked through.
4. Incorporate the sliced onions, white part of spring onions, and carrots into the mix.
5. Stir for about 2-3 minutes until softened. Sprinkle in a pinch of salt and pepper before removing from heat.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

1. In the same pan, add an additional 2 tbsp of oil.
2. Add the shrimp; cook until they turn pink.
3. Drizzle in soy sauce along with a pinch of salt.

Step 4: Combine Noodles and Sauce

1. Add the boiled udon noodles to the pan with shrimp.
2. Stir-fry on high heat while mixing continuously so that the noodles crisp up slightly.

Step 5: Add Sauce and Vegetables

1. Pour in your prepared sauce mixture from above while stirring well.
2. Toss in your sautéed vegetables; combine everything evenly.

Step 6: Finish Up

1. Turn off the heat; sprinkle chopped green spring onions on top.
2. Serve hot on plates and enjoy your delicious Yaki Udon with Shrimp!

How to Serve Yaki Udon with Shrimp

Yaki Udon with Shrimp is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• A crisp green salad with a tangy dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the savory noodles.

Add Pickled Vegetables

• Adding pickled vegetables like daikon or cucumber provides a crunchy texture and a burst of flavor, balancing the richness of the dish.

Serve with Soy Sauce on the Side

• Providing soy sauce as a condiment allows guests to customize their seasoning, enhancing the umami notes of the Yaki Udon.

Top with Sesame Seeds

• Sprinkling toasted sesame seeds adds a nutty flavor and an appealing crunch, elevating the overall taste and presentation.

How to Perfect Yaki Udon with Shrimp

Perfecting your Yaki Udon with Shrimp involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to make it even better:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and shrimp will enhance the flavor and texture of your dish significantly.
• Don’t Overcook Noodles: Follow package instructions closely to avoid mushy noodles; they should retain some bite.
• High Heat Cooking: Stir-frying on high heat helps achieve that delicious slightly charred flavor while keeping ingredients crisp.
• Adjust Sauces to Taste: Personalize your sauce levels by adjusting soy sauce or oyster sauce for saltiness, ensuring it suits your palate.
• Garnish Generously: Don’t skip garnishes like spring onions or sesame seeds; they add visual appeal and flavor complexity.

Best Side Dishes for Yaki Udon with Shrimp

Complementing your Yaki Udon with Shrimp can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent side dish options:

1. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup is comforting and pairs well with noodle dishes.
2. Edamame: Steamed edamame pods sprinkled with sea salt offer a healthy, protein-rich snack that is easy to prepare.
3. Tempura Vegetables: Lightly battered and fried vegetables add crunch and can be enjoyed as a delightful side.
4. Seaweed Salad: A tangy seaweed salad brings freshness and unique flavors that complement the rich noodles.
5. Cucumber Salad: A simple cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar adds a refreshing touch.
6. Gyoza: These dumplings are perfect for sharing and provide a savory bite alongside your main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Yaki Udon with Shrimp, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Using the wrong noodles: Ensure you use udon noodles specifically, as they provide the right texture and flavor. Avoid using instant ramen or other noodle types.
• Overcooking the shrimp: Cook the shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking can make them tough and rubbery.
• Skipping the rinsing step: After boiling the udon noodles, rinse them in cold water. This prevents them from becoming sticky and helps maintain their texture.
• Not prepping ingredients ahead of time: Stir-frying is quick! Prepare all your ingredients before you start cooking to ensure everything cooks evenly and efficiently.
• Ignoring high heat: Cooking on high heat allows for proper stir-frying. It helps achieve that delicious slight crispiness on the noodles and vegetables.
• Forgetting to add seasoning gradually: Add salt, soy sauce, and other seasonings gradually. This ensures balanced flavor throughout the dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Yaki Udon with Shrimp in an airtight container.
• It can stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Yaki Udon with Shrimp

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Yaki Udon with Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the noodles in a baking dish covered with foil for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Yaki Udon with Shrimp?

Yaki Udon with Shrimp is a popular Japanese stir-fried noodle dish featuring thick udon noodles, shrimp, and various vegetables cooked in flavorful sauces.

Can I use other proteins instead of shrimp?

Absolutely! You can substitute shrimp with chicken, beef, lamb, or turkey based on your preference.

How do I make it vegetarian-friendly?

To make this recipe vegetarian, simply omit the shrimp and use tofu or additional vegetables as substitutes.

What vegetables work well in Yaki Udon with Shrimp?

You can add bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for extra color and nutrition. Feel free to customize based on your favorite veggies!

How do I store leftover Yaki Udon with Shrimp?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage.

Is Yaki Udon gluten-free?

Traditional udon noodles are made from wheat flour; therefore, they are not gluten-free. However, you can find gluten-free alternatives made from rice or other flours.

Final Thoughts

Yaki Udon with Shrimp is not only quick but also incredibly versatile. With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, this dish is perfect for any weeknight dinner. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins to suit your taste! Give it a try today!