Yaki Udon with Shrimp

Yaki Udon with Shrimp is a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Japanese cuisine to your table in just 20 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, offering a comforting blend of chewy udon noodles, succulent shrimp, and colorful veggies. This dish stands out with its quick preparation and savory sauce, making it a go-to recipe for noodle lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Yaki Udon recipe can be prepared in just 20 minutes, perfect for those busy evenings.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of garlic, soy sauce, and toasted sesame oil creates an irresistible umami flavor.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what’s available in your kitchen.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein from shrimp and fiber from vegetables, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a larger batch to enjoy leftovers during the week or to share with friends.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, gather your essential tools before you start. Having everything ready will help you create this delicious Yaki Udon with Shrimp without any hassle.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok or large frying pan
• Cooking spatula
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or large frying pan: Ideal for high-heat cooking, allowing even stir-frying of ingredients.
• Cooking spatula: Helps in tossing ingredients easily without breaking them apart.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures precise cutting of vegetables for uniform cooking.

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: Prepare the Noodles

Boil the udon noodles according to the package instructions. Drain them well and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Drizzle some oil over them to prevent sticking, then set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat 1 tablespoon of neutral oil in a wok or large frying pan. Add minced garlic and toast it for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then add sliced mushrooms and cook on high heat until tender. Next, toss in sliced onions, the white part of spring onions, and matchstick carrots. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper before removing from the pan.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

In the same pan, add another 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat. Place shrimp in the hot oil along with soy sauce and a pinch of salt. Cook until shrimp turn pink and are cooked through.

Step 4: Combine Noodles

Add the boiled udon noodles to the pan with shrimp. Stir-fry on high heat while continuously tossing them around so they get slightly crispy.

Step 5: Add Sauce

Pour in your prepared sauce mixture over the noodles. Give everything a good stir to ensure even coating.

Step 6: Toss in Vegetables

Finally, add back the sautéed vegetables into the pan. Gently toss until combined.

Step 7: Finish Up

Turn off the heat and sprinkle chopped green spring onion on top for added freshness.

Step 8: Serve

Transfer your Yaki Udon with Shrimp onto plates or bowls. Enjoy this flavorful dish hot!

How to Serve Yaki Udon with Shrimp

Yaki Udon with Shrimp is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether serving it for a casual dinner or a special occasion, the presentation and accompaniments can elevate the experience.

Garnish Ideas

• Sesame Seeds: Sprinkling toasted sesame seeds on top adds a nutty flavor and a delightful crunch.
• Chili Flakes: For those who enjoy some heat, a pinch of chili flakes can enhance the dish’s flavor profile.

Vegetable Additions

• Broccoli Florets: Steamed or sautéed broccoli can add color and nutrition to your plate.
• Bell Peppers: Sliced bell peppers provide sweetness and an appealing crunch.

Serving Suggestions

• With a Side Salad: A fresh green salad balances the richness of the Yaki Udon and adds freshness to your meal.
• In a Bowl: Serve in deep bowls for a cozy, comforting presentation. This allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully.

How to Perfect Yaki Udon with Shrimp

Achieving the perfect Yaki Udon with Shrimp involves attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out amazing.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp and vegetables will enhance the overall taste and texture of your dish.
• High Heat Cooking: Stir-frying on high heat allows for better caramelization and prevents sogginess in the noodles.
• Avoid Overcooking Shrimp: Cook shrimp until they are just pink; overcooking can make them tough.
• Prepare Ahead: Have all ingredients prepped before you start cooking. This ensures smooth cooking without delays.
• Adjust Sauce to Taste: Feel free to tweak the sauce ingredients according to your preference for sweetness or saltiness.

Best Side Dishes for Yaki Udon with Shrimp

Pairing side dishes with Yaki Udon can create a more rounded meal experience. Here are some excellent options that complement this dish well.

1. Edamame: Lightly salted edamame offers protein and is great for snacking alongside noodles.
2. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup enhances the meal’s umami flavors while being light on the stomach.
3. Japanese Pickles (Tsukemono): These tangy pickles provide a refreshing contrast to the savory noodles.
4. Tempura Vegetables: Crispy tempura adds texture and is perfect for dipping in soy sauce.
5. Seaweed Salad: A cool seaweed salad brings a unique flavor profile that pairs nicely with Yaki Udon.
6. Cucumber Salad: A simple cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar adds crunch and freshness to balance out the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Yaki Udon with Shrimp, even small errors can lead to disappointing results. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the noodle rinse – Not rinsing the udon noodles after boiling can lead to a clumpy texture. Always rinse them in cold water to keep them separate.

• Overcooking shrimp – Cooking shrimp for too long can make them tough. Monitor closely and remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink.

• Using low-quality soy sauce – A poor-quality soy sauce can affect the dish’s flavor. Opt for a good brand of soy sauce for the best taste.

• Not allowing enough heat – Stir-frying on low heat won’t achieve that perfect crispy texture. Ensure your pan is hot enough before adding ingredients.

• Neglecting fresh vegetables – Stale or poorly cut veggies can ruin the dish’s appeal. Always use fresh, well-prepared vegetables for vibrant flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Yaki Udon with Shrimp can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Yaki Udon with Shrimp

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Best consumed within 1 month for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating Yaki Udon with Shrimp

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop – Reheat in a pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Yaki Udon with Shrimp that might help you make this dish perfectly.

What kind of noodles are best for Yaki Udon with Shrimp?

Udon noodles are ideal for this dish due to their unique texture and ability to soak up flavors. Using fresh or vacuum-packed udon will yield the best results.

Can I substitute shrimp in Yaki Udon with Shrimp?

Yes! You can use chicken, beef, lamb, or turkey instead of shrimp while maintaining similar cooking times for the proteins.

How spicy is Yaki Udon with Shrimp?

This recipe is not inherently spicy; however, you can add chili flakes or hot sauce based on your taste preferences for some extra heat.

How do I customize my Yaki Udon with Shrimp?

Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, bean sprouts, or bok choy according to your preference. Adjust sauces and spices as desired!

Final Thoughts

Yaki Udon with Shrimp is not only a quick meal but also bursting with flavor and nutrition. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various proteins and veggies based on what you have at home. Give this delightful stir-fry a try today!

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Yaki Udon with Shrimp

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

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Description

Yaki Udon with Shrimp is a delicious and quick stir-fried noodle dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Japanese cuisine to your kitchen in just 20 minutes. This recipe features chewy udon noodles tossed with succulent shrimp, colorful vegetables, and a savory sauce that perfectly melds together for a satisfying meal.

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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 matchstick-style)
• 1 spring onion (chopped)
• 2 tbsp neutral oil
• 1 tbsp regular soy sauce
• pinch salt and pepper
• 1 tsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp brown sugar
• 2 tsp toasted sesame oil

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Instructions

1. Boil udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking; toss with a bit of oil.
2. Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a wok and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until tender, then add onions and carrots; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
3. In the same pan, heat another 2 tbsp of oil over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and soy sauce; cook until shrimp turn pink.
4. Add the boiled udon noodles to the pan and stir-fry on high heat until slightly crispy.
5. Pour in the prepared sauce mixture and toss everything well.
6. Stir in sautéed vegetables until combined.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green spring onion.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 58g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 160mg