Yaki Udon with Shrimp

Yaki Udon with Shrimp is a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Japan right to your kitchen. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this quick stir-fry combines tender udon noodles with succulent shrimp and colorful vegetables. The rich sauces and fresh ingredients create a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Yaki Udon takes only 20 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil offers an irresistible taste that will please everyone.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize your Yaki Udon by adding your favorite vegetables or protein substitutes.
• Healthier Option: Packed with veggies and lean shrimp, this dish provides a nutritious balance without sacrificing flavor.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, Yaki Udon fits perfectly into any setting.

Tools and Preparation

To make Yaki Udon with Shrimp, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet or Wok
• Pot for boiling noodles
• Knife and chopping board
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet or Wok: A wide surface area allows even cooking and easy tossing of ingredients.
• Pot for boiling noodles: Ensures the udon noodles are cooked perfectly without sticking together.

Ingredients

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

For the Noodles

• 1 pack (200g) udon noodles (preferably vacuum-packed)

For the Stir-Fry

• 2 tbsp neutral oil
• 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 with cold water.
3. Drizzle some oil over the noodles to prevent sticking and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of neutral oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and toast for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in sliced mushrooms and cook on high heat until tender.
4. Add sliced onions, white part of spring onions, and carrots; stir for 2-3 minutes.
5. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper before removing from heat.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

1. In the same pan, add an additional 2 tablespoons of oil.
2. Fry the shrimp until they turn pink; add soy sauce along with another pinch of salt.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

1. Add the cooked udon noodles to the skillet with shrimp.
2. Fry on high heat while stirring continuously until the noodles become slightly crispy.

Step 5: Final Touches

1. Pour in your prepared sauce mixture; stir well to combine all flavors.
2. Toss in sautéed vegetables from earlier; mix thoroughly.

Step 6: Serve

1. Turn off heat; sprinkle chopped green parts of spring onion 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 versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• A light green salad with a citrus vinaigrette complements the savory flavors of the Yaki Udon.

Add Extra Protein

• Consider serving with grilled chicken or tofu for an added protein boost, making it more filling and satisfying.

Top with Sesame Seeds

• Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for a nutty flavor and a delightful crunch that enhances the dish’s texture.

Serve with Pickled Vegetables

• Include a side of pickled vegetables for a tangy contrast that balances the savory noodles.

Enjoy with Green Tea

• A hot cup of green tea pairs well, providing a refreshing cleanse to the palate between bites.

How to Perfect Yaki Udon with Shrimp

To ensure your Yaki Udon turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and shrimp enhance the overall flavor and texture of your dish.

• Cook noodles al dente: Avoid overcooking udon noodles; they should be slightly firm for the best bite.

• High heat cooking: Stir-fry on high heat to achieve that perfect ‘wok hei’ flavor, giving your noodles an authentic touch.

• Customize sauces: Feel free to adjust soy sauce or add chili paste for extra heat based on your taste preference.

• Add seasonal veggies: Incorporating seasonal vegetables not only boosts nutrition but also adds vibrant colors to your dish.

Best Side Dishes for Yaki Udon with Shrimp

Enhance your dining experience by pairing Yaki Udon with these delightful side dishes.

1. Miso Soup
   A warm bowl of miso soup provides comfort and is a traditional Japanese starter that complements your meal perfectly.

2. Edamame
   Lightly salted edamame makes for an easy and nutritious finger food, great for sharing before main courses.

3. Cucumber Salad
   A refreshing cucumber salad tossed in rice vinegar brings a crisp and zesty contrast to the richness of udon.

4. Tempura Vegetables
   Lightly battered and fried vegetables add crunchiness and variety, enhancing the overall dining experience.

5. Seaweed Salad
   This dish is packed with nutrients and offers a unique texture that pairs well with the chewy noodles.

6. Japanese Pickles (Tsukemono)
   These fermented vegetables provide tanginess and balance out heavier flavors, making them an excellent side choice.

7. Steamed Bok Choy
   Simple yet flavorful steamed bok choy adds color and nutrition while keeping the meal light.

8. Fried Tofu Bites
   Crispy fried tofu bites can serve as a protein-rich side that complements the umami flavors of Yaki Udon.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Yaki Udon with Shrimp can be simple, but common mistakes may ruin your dish. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Not pre-cooking the noodles: Always boil the udon noodles according to package instructions before adding them to your stir fry. This ensures they are tender and ready to absorb flavors.
• Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly. Remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque to prevent a rubbery texture.
• Skipping the vegetable prep: Cut vegetables uniformly, like matchstick carrots, for even cooking. Uneven pieces lead to some being overcooked while others remain raw.
• Using low-quality soy sauce: Opt for a good quality soy sauce for the best flavor. Low-quality options can result in a bland dish.
• Neglecting high heat: Stir frying requires high heat. It helps develop that signature crispy texture on the noodles and shrimp, enhancing the overall taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Yaki Udon with Shrimp

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag.
• Best used within 1 month for optimal freshness.

Reheating Yaki Udon with Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat a pan over medium heat, add a splash of water or oil, and stir fry until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Yaki Udon with Shrimp:

Can I use other proteins instead of shrimp?

Yes! Chicken, beef, or tofu can be great alternatives depending on your preference.

What can I substitute for soy sauce?

You can use tamari or coconut aminos as gluten-free alternatives that still provide umami flavor.

Is Yaki Udon suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Yaki Udon with Shrimp is perfect for meal prep as it stores well and reheats nicely.

How do I make this recipe vegetarian?

Simply replace shrimp with tofu or additional vegetables and omit oyster sauce.

What vegetables pair well with Yaki Udon?

Bell peppers, snap peas, bok choy, and zucchini are excellent choices that add color and nutrients.

Final Thoughts

Yaki Udon with Shrimp is not only quick and easy but also versatile. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the sauces according to your taste. Enjoy this delightful dish any night of the week!

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Yaki Udon with Shrimp

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves 2

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Description

Yaki Udon with Shrimp is a quick and delicious stir-fry that captures the essence of Japanese cuisine right in your kitchen. This vibrant dish combines chewy udon noodles with succulent shrimp and an array of colorful vegetables, all tossed in a savory sauce that tantalizes the taste buds. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this recipe takes just 20 minutes to prepare, making it a go-to choice for any occasion. Customize it by adding your favorite proteins or vegetables for a meal that appeals to everyone at the table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 200g udon noodles
• 100g shrimp
• 1 garlic clove (minced)
• 1 yellow onion (sliced)
• 120g white mushrooms (sliced)
• 1 carrot (cut into matchsticks)
• 2 tbsp neutral oil
• 1 tbsp regular soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp brown sugar
• 2 tsp toasted sesame oil
• pinch salt
• pinch pepper

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Instructions

1. Boil the udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water, then drizzle with oil to prevent sticking.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Add mushrooms, onions, and carrots, cooking until tender.
3. In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil and cook shrimp until pink; season with soy sauce.
4. Combine cooked udon with the shrimp mixture in the skillet; stir-fry on high heat until slightly crispy.
5. Pour in your sauce mixture and toss in sautéed vegetables. Serve hot, garnished with chopped spring onions.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stir-frying
• Cuisine: Japanese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (350g)
• Calories: 427
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 810mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 54g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 160mg