Yaki Udon with Shrimp

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that brings the flavors of Japan to your kitchen, then this Yaki Udon with Shrimp is just what you need! It’s one of those recipes that I turn to on busy weeknights when I want something satisfying but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. The combination of chewy udon noodles, succulent shrimp, and fresh veggies makes it a favorite at my dinner table.

Not only is this dish bursting with flavor, but it’s also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or prepping meals for the week ahead, Yaki Udon with Shrimp fits perfectly into any occasion. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up that you’ll find yourself making it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 20 minutes—perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love the tasty combination of noodles and shrimp!
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and lean protein, this meal is both nutritious and satisfying.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep the ingredients ahead of time, making weeknight cooking a breeze.
• Delicious Flavor: The umami richness from the sauces elevates this simple stir-fry to something special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! For this Yaki Udon with Shrimp recipe, all you need are some simple and wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what you need:

For the Stir-Fry

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

Variations

One of the best things about Yaki Udon is its flexibility! You can easily customize this dish based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken or tofu instead of shrimp for a different twist.
• Add more veggies: Feel free to throw in any seasonal vegetables you have—bell peppers, snap peas, or bok choy work beautifully!
• Change up the noodles: If udon isn’t available, soba or rice noodles can be great alternatives.
• Spice it up: Add a dash of chili flakes or sriracha for an extra kick if you like some heat!

How to Make Yaki Udon with Shrimp

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Start by boiling the udon noodles according to the package instructions. This step is crucial because properly cooked noodles will give your dish that perfect chewy texture. After draining them, rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. A drizzle of oil will keep them from sticking together as they wait.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a hot pan, heat 1 tablespoon of oil and add minced garlic. Toast it just until fragrant—about one minute. Then toss in sliced mushrooms; their earthy flavor will enhance your stir-fry beautifully. As they cook down, add sliced onions and carrots. Stir-frying these veggies for a few minutes not only softens them but also releases their natural sweetness. Once done, set them aside while we focus on our shrimp.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Using the same pan keeps all those delicious flavors intact! Add another 2 tablespoons of oil and fry up your shrimp with soy sauce and a pinch of salt until they turn pink and opaque. This step ensures that you’re left with succulent shrimp full of flavor.

Step 4: Combine Everything

It’s time for those udon noodles! Add them into your pan with shrimp on high heat, stirring continuously. This helps give them a slight crispiness while absorbing all those wonderful flavors from the pan.

Step 5: Pour in the Sauce

Next comes our flavorful sauce mix! Pour it over everything in the pan and continue stirring until everything is well-coated. The aroma will be incredible!

Step 6: Mix in Veggies

Finally, toss back in your sautéed vegetables along with chopped spring onions. Give everything a good mix before turning off the heat—it looks so colorful!

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!

Dish out your Yaki Udon with Shrimp onto plates and enjoy immediately while it’s warm! This meal is sure to bring smiles around your table.

And there you have it—a delightful bowl of homemade Yaki Udon with Shrimp that’s perfect for any night of the week!

Pro Tips for Making Yaki Udon with Shrimp

Cooking Yaki Udon with Shrimp is a delightful experience, and a few helpful tips can make your dish even better!

• Use Fresh Udon Noodles: If possible, opt for fresh or vacuum-packed udon noodles instead of dried ones. They have a chewier texture and will absorb the flavors better.
• Prep Your Ingredients First: Chop all your vegetables and shrimp before you start cooking. This ensures a smooth cooking process since stir-frying happens quickly!
• High Heat is Key: Cooking on high heat allows the shrimp and vegetables to sear nicely, giving your dish great flavor while keeping the veggies crisp.
• Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add or swap out vegetables based on what you have on hand. Bell peppers, zucchini, or snap peas can be excellent additions for color and crunch.
• Don’t Skimp on the Sauce: The balance of soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar creates a deliciously savory-sweet flavor profile. Make sure to mix it well before adding it to the noodles!

How to Serve Yaki Udon with Shrimp

Serving Yaki Udon with Shrimp is all about showcasing its vibrant colors and rich flavors. Here are some ideas to elevate your presentation!

Garnishes

• Chopped Cilantro: Adds a fresh herbal note that complements the flavors beautifully.
• Sesame Seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds provides a nutty crunch and enhances visual appeal.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice right before serving adds brightness and acidity that lifts the entire dish.

Side Dishes

• Edamame: Lightly salted edamame is a perfect snack that pairs well with Yaki Udon. It’s protein-packed and easy to prepare!
• Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup can be a comforting side that balances the meal beautifully. Its umami flavors complement the noodles.
• Seaweed Salad: The refreshing taste of seaweed salad adds texture and nutrients to your meal, making it an interesting contrast to the stir-fried noodles.
• Pickled Vegetables: A small side of pickled carrots or cucumbers offers a tangy bite that contrasts wonderfully with the savory udon.

By following these serving suggestions, you’ll create not just a meal but an inviting dining experience. Enjoy your delicious Yaki Udon with Shrimp!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Yaki Udon with Shrimp is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for busy weeknights. Here are some tips to keep your delicious noodles fresh:

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover Yaki Udon in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
• Consume leftovers within 2-3 days for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Divide into single-serving portions and place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen Yaki Udon overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or oil to prevent sticking.
• Stir until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Yaki Udon with Shrimp.

Can I use other proteins besides shrimp in Yaki Udon?

Absolutely! While shrimp adds a wonderful flavor, you can substitute it with chicken, tofu, or even vegetables for a delightful alternative.

What makes this Yaki Udon with Shrimp recipe special?

This recipe stands out due to its vibrant combination of fresh vegetables and flavorful sauces that envelop the udon noodles, creating a comforting and satisfying dish.

Can I prepare Yaki Udon with Shrimp ahead of time?

Yes, this dish is excellent for meal prep! You can cook it in advance and store it in the fridge or freezer for quick meals later on.

Is Yaki Udon with Shrimp gluten-free?

Traditional udon noodles contain wheat; however, you can use gluten-free noodles if needed. Just ensure all sauces used are gluten-free as well!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this delightful Yaki Udon with Shrimp! Its quick cooking time and bursting flavors make it an ideal choice for any weeknight dinner. Enjoy the process of creating this meal, and don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite veggies or proteins. Happy cooking!