Yaki Udon with Shrimp

Yaki Udon with Shrimp is a delightful dish that combines succulent shrimp with chewy udon noodles, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick weeknight meal, this stir-fry recipe is both satisfying and full of flavor. The combination of fresh vegetables and savory sauces elevates this dish, offering a taste of Japan right in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: A perfect blend of garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil gives it an irresistible taste.
• Versatile: Customize with your favorite vegetables or proteins to suit your taste preferences.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein from shrimp and fiber from veggies, this dish is nutritious and satisfying.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup required as everything is cooked in one pan!

Tools and Preparation

To make Yaki Udon with Shrimp successfully, you’ll need some essential tools. These will help streamline your cooking process and ensure delicious results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok or large frying pan
• Cooking spatula
• Pot for boiling noodles
• Colander for draining noodles

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or large frying pan: Provides ample space for stir-frying and allows heat to circulate evenly.
• Cooking spatula: Ideal for stirring and tossing ingredients without damaging them.
• Pot for boiling noodles: Ensures the udon noodles are cooked perfectly before adding them to the stir-fry.

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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

How to Make Yaki Udon with Shrimp

Step 1: Boil the Udon Noodles

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

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large frying pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add minced garlic; toast it for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add sliced mushrooms; stir-fry until cooked through on high heat.
4. Add sliced onions, white part of spring onions, and carrots; stir continuously for 2-3 minutes.
5. Sprinkle a pinch of salt and pepper before removing all veggies from the pan.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

1. In the same pan, add an additional 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add shrimp along with soy sauce and a pinch of salt.
3. Cook until shrimp are pink and firm, ensuring they are fully cooked through.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

1. Add the boiled udon noodles directly into the pan with shrimp.
2. Fry on high heat while stirring continuously so that the noodles slightly crisp up evenly.
3. Pour in your prepared sauce mixture; stir everything together thoroughly.

Step 5: Add Vegetables & Serve

1. Toss in the cooked vegetables from earlier; mix well until heated through.
2. Turn off heat and sprinkle chopped green spring onion over the top before serving.
3. Plate your Yaki Udon with Shrimp and enjoy!

How to Serve Yaki Udon with Shrimp

Yaki Udon with Shrimp is a flavorful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions to make your meal even more enjoyable.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• A simple green salad provides a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors of the udon.

Add Pickled Vegetables

• Serve with pickled cucumbers or radishes to introduce a tangy flavor that complements the noodles.

Garnish with Sesame Seeds

• Toasted sesame seeds add a nutty crunch and visual appeal when sprinkled over the finished dish.

Serve with Steamed Edamame

• Steamed edamame is a protein-packed side that pairs well with Yaki Udon, adding texture and flavor.

Accompany with Miso Soup

• A warm bowl of miso soup enhances the Japanese theme and offers a comforting element to your meal.

Include Sliced Avocado

• Creamy avocado slices bring richness and balance, making each bite even more satisfying.

How to Perfect Yaki Udon with Shrimp

Creating the perfect Yaki Udon with Shrimp takes attention to detail and a few helpful tips. Follow these practices for optimal results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and shrimp enhance flavor significantly.
• Don’t Overcook Noodles: Cook the udon just until tender to maintain their texture.
• High Heat Cooking: Stir-frying on high heat helps achieve a deliciously charred flavor.
• Balance Flavors: Adjust soy sauce and vinegar for a perfect sweet-salty balance.
• Toss Quickly: After adding sauces, toss quickly to prevent sticking and ensure even coating.
• Customize Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or bok choy for more variety.

Best Side Dishes for Yaki Udon with Shrimp

Complement your Yaki Udon with Shrimp by serving it alongside these delightful side dishes. Each option adds unique flavors and textures to your meal.

1. Gyoza
   These pan-fried dumplings filled with veggies or shrimp offer a delicious bite-sized treat.

2. Tempura Vegetables
   Lightly battered and fried vegetables add crunch and are perfect for dipping in sauce.

3. Seaweed Salad
   A refreshing seaweed salad is packed with nutrients and has a delightful umami flavor.

4. Cucumber Salad
   Crisp cucumbers tossed in rice vinegar make for a light, tangy side that balances the rich noodles.

5. Steamed Bok Choy
   Simple steamed bok choy drizzled with soy sauce enhances both nutrition and flavor in your meal.

6. Spicy Tuna Tartare
   This fresh dish brings an exciting kick, contrasting nicely with the savory udon noodles.

7. Miso Glazed Eggplant
   Sweet miso-glazed eggplant offers a rich taste that pairs well with the stir-fried noodles.

8. Fried Rice Balls (Onigiri)
   These portable rice balls can be flavored in various ways, providing an excellent addition to your table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to encounter pitfalls when making Yaki Udon with Shrimp. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Using dry udon noodles: Always opt for vacuum-packed udon noodles for the best texture. They cook quickly and have a great chewiness.
• Overcooking shrimp: Shrimp cooks fast; avoid overcooking by keeping an eye on color change. They should turn pink and opaque, which usually takes just a few minutes.
• Skipping the oil drizzle: After boiling, drizzling oil on the udon prevents sticking. Don’t skip this step for a perfect stir-fry.
• Not pre-chopping vegetables: Prepare all your veggies before cooking. This will streamline the process and ensure even cooking.
• Ignoring high heat: Stir-frying requires high heat to achieve that signature slight crispiness. Don’t be afraid to crank up the heat!
• Neglecting seasoning balance: Balance flavors by tasting as you go. Adjust soy sauce, vinegar, or sugar according to your preference.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Yaki Udon with Shrimp

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• Can be stored for about 1 month.

Reheating Yaki Udon with Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread noodles on a baking sheet and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pan over medium heat with a splash of water or broth, stirring often until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Yaki Udon with Shrimp.

What type of shrimp is best for Yaki Udon with Shrimp?

Fresh or frozen medium-sized shrimp works best. Make sure they are peeled and deveined for convenience.

Can I use other proteins instead of shrimp?

Absolutely! Chicken, beef, or tofu can be excellent substitutes depending on your preference.

How do I customize my Yaki Udon with Shrimp?

Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or snow peas. You can also adjust sauces based on your taste!

Is Yaki Udon with Shrimp gluten-free?

Traditional udon noodles contain wheat; however, you can use gluten-free noodles to make it suitable for gluten intolerance.

Final Thoughts

Yaki Udon with Shrimp is a delightful dish that’s quick to prepare and bursting with flavor. The versatility of this recipe allows you to customize it based on your tastes and available ingredients. Whether you enjoy it as a comforting weeknight dinner or offer it at gatherings, it’s sure to impress everyone at the table!