Yaki Udon with Shrimp

Yaki Udon with Shrimp is a quick and delicious Japanese noodles stir fry dish that brings together tender udon noodles, succulent shrimp, and vibrant vegetables. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, this recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that everyone will love. It’s not only easy to prepare but can also be customized with your favorite veggies or protein alternatives, making it a versatile addition to any meal plan.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Ingredients: Each bite is packed with umami flavors from the combination of soy sauce and sesame oil.
• Versatile Dish: You can easily swap out the shrimp for chicken, beef, or even tofu to cater to your preference.
• Healthy & Balanced: With fresh vegetables and lean protein, this dish offers a nutritious balance for any meal.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or adjust the sauces to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need to make Yaki Udon with Shrimp.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large frying pan or wok
• Pot for boiling noodles
• Measuring spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Strainer

Importance of Each Tool

• Large frying pan or wok: This allows for even cooking of all ingredients while ensuring they fry properly without overcrowding.
• Pot for boiling noodles: A good pot is essential for cooking udon noodles perfectly al dente before stir-frying.
• Knife and cutting board: Sharp knives and a stable cutting surface help you chop vegetables efficiently and safely.

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Ingredients

This Yaki Udon features a delightful mix of fresh ingredients that create a satisfying meal.

For the Noodles

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

For the Shrimp

• 8-10 shrimp (approx 100g)

For the Vegetables

• 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

How to Make Yaki Udon with Shrimp

Step 1: Cook the Udon Noodles

Boil the udon noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain them and rinse with cold water. Drizzle some oil over them to prevent sticking and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat 1 tablespoon of neutral oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and toast it for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add sliced mushrooms and stir-fry until they’re tender. Afterward, incorporate sliced onions, the white part of spring onions, and matchstick-cut carrots. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes while seasoning with a pinch of salt and pepper. Remove these veggies from the pan.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

In the same pan, add another 2 tablespoons of oil. Once heated, add in the shrimp along with soy sauce and a pinch of salt. Cook until shrimp turn pink throughout.

Step 4: Combine Noodles and Shrimp

Add in the pre-cooked udon noodles into the pan with shrimp. Fry on high heat while stirring continuously so that all ingredients are well mixed and slightly crisp up evenly.

Step 5: Add Sauce Ingredients

Pour in all prepared sauce ingredients—regular soy sauce, oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, freshly crushed black pepper, and toasted sesame oil. Stir everything together thoroughly until combined.

Step 6: Toss in Vegetables

Return sautéed vegetables back into the pan with noodles. Toss everything gently until well integrated.

Step 7: Final Touches

Turn off heat and sprinkle chopped green parts of spring onions over the top.

Step 8: Serve

Transfer Yaki Udon with Shrimp onto plates or bowls. Enjoy your delicious homemade dish!

How to Serve Yaki Udon with Shrimp

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

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Cilantro: Adds a fresh, vibrant flavor that complements the dish.
• Sesame Seeds: Provides a nutty crunch that enhances the texture.

Pair with Pickled Vegetables

• Pickled Ginger: Offers a tangy contrast to the savory noodles.
• Japanese Pickles (Tsukemono): Brings an array of flavors and colors to your plate.

Serve with a Side Salad

• Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad that balances out the richness of the udon.
• Seaweed Salad: Adds an umami touch that pairs well with the shrimp.

Enjoy with Sauces on the Side

• Spicy Mayo: A creamy addition for those who love a bit of heat.
• Additional Soy Sauce: Perfect for enhancing flavors according to personal taste.

How to Perfect Yaki Udon with Shrimp

To achieve a delicious Yaki Udon with Shrimp, consider these helpful tips for perfecting your dish every time.

• Use High Heat: Cooking on high heat allows the noodles to crisp up, giving you that ideal texture.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if necessary; overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of frying.
• Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh vegetables and shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
• Adjust Seasonings to Taste: Feel free to modify soy sauce or spices based on your preference for saltiness or heat.

Best Side Dishes for Yaki Udon with Shrimp

Complement your Yaki Udon with these delightful side dishes that enhance the overall meal experience.

1. Edamame: Lightly salted steamed edamame makes for a nutritious and satisfying snack.
2. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup adds comfort and depth to your meal.
3. Tempura Vegetables: Crispy tempura offers a crunchy contrast that pairs beautifully with udon.
4. Japanese Potato Salad: Creamy and slightly sweet, this salad balances out savory flavors.
5. Grilled Asparagus: Simple yet elegant, grilled asparagus adds freshness and color.
6. Seafood Gyoza: These dumplings filled with seafood create an excellent appetizer before your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Yaki Udon with Shrimp, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Timing the vegetables – Adding all vegetables at once can lead to overcooking. Sauté them in stages to maintain their crunch and flavor.
• Ignoring noodle preparation – Not rinsing the udon noodles can result in a sticky mess. Always rinse with cold water after boiling to prevent clumping.
• Using low-quality shrimp – Cheap shrimp can be rubbery and bland. Opt for fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp for the best taste.
• Overcrowding the pan – If you add too many ingredients at once, they will steam instead of fry. Cook in batches to ensure proper caramelization.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments – Tasting as you cook is crucial. Adjust salt or soy sauce levels based on your preference for a well-seasoned dish.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Yaki Udon with Shrimp in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Yaki Udon with Shrimp

• Freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Yaki Udon with Shrimp

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 15 minutes, adding a splash of water if needed.
• Microwave – Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring between intervals until heated through.
• Stovetop – Warm over medium heat in a pan, adding a little oil or broth to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Yaki Udon with Shrimp:

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

Udon noodles are traditional and work best due to their chewy texture. Vacuum-packed udon is ideal for quick preparation.

Can I use other proteins instead of shrimp?

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

Is Yaki Udon with Shrimp healthy?

This dish can be healthy when made with fresh vegetables and lean protein. It’s high in carbohydrates but balanced with protein and fiber.

How do I customize my Yaki Udon?

Feel free to add any seasonal veggies or switch up the protein based on what you have available.

Final Thoughts

Yaki Udon with Shrimp is not only quick and delicious but also versatile enough for customization. Whether you prefer extra veggies or different proteins, this stir-fried noodle dish promises satisfaction. Give it a try and make it your own!