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–+ servings
Linda Cain

Life-Changing Udon Noodles

When it comes to comfort food, a steaming bowl of udon noodles shines like a beacon. Deliciously thick, these Japanese wheat noodles are not just filling; they have a knack for transforming an ordinary meal into an extraordinary experience. First, let's talk about what to pair these delightful noodles with.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 7 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Soup
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 large free-range eggs
  • 1.75 lbs 800 g udon noodles
  • 2 cups 500 ml vegetable broth
  • 3 to 4 tablespoons tamari or low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 teaspoons mirin
  • 80 g 6 tbsp unsalted butter, cubed (or adjust per bowl)
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil or to taste
  • 4 scallions thinly sliced on the bias
  • 1/4 to 1/2 lb tender greens such as baby bok choy or spinach (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger optional, adds warmth and depth
  • 1 small clove garlic minced (optional, enhances savory flavor)
  • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Sambal Oelek or chili paste optional for heat

Equipment

  • Saucepan, Pot

Method
 

Step 1: Boil the Noodles
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the udon noodles and cook them according to package instructions, typically around 8-12 minutes. Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water. This stops the cooking and prevents sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Broth
  1. In a separate saucepan, heat the vegetable broth over medium heat. Add the tamari, mirin, and if you’re using it, ginger and garlic. Stir it together to infuse the flavors.
Step 3: Cook the Eggs
  1. While the broth warms, gently poach your eggs. Bring a small pot of water to a simmer, crack the eggs one at a time into cups, and slide it into the water. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes, ensuring that the whites are set but the yolks remain runny.
Step 4: Combine Everything
  1. Add the cooked udon noodles to the broth. Stir in the butter, sesame oil, and scallions. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste. Allow everything to warm for another minute or so.
Step 5: Serve it Up
  1. Ladle the udon noodle broth into bowls. Top with a poached egg and any additional toppings – be it the tender greens or a squeeze of chili paste. Enjoy immediately!

Nutrition

Calories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 62gProtein: 18gFat: 15gFiber: 3gSugar: 2g

Notes

Here are some tips to ensure optimal noodle pleasure:
  • Rinse the noodles: This helps remove excess starch and keeps them from clumping.
  • Customize the broth: Experiment with adding miso paste for a richer flavor profile.
  • Add crunch: Toasted sesame seeds or chopped nuts can add a delightful texture.
  • Storage considerations: Store leftovers separately; undressed noodles keep better.
  • Reheating: Warm gently in a pan with a bit of water to loosen the noodles.

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