Yaki Udon with Shrimp

Yaki Udon with Shrimp is a delightful Japanese noodle stir fry that combines succulent shrimp with vibrant vegetables. This dish is perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to impressing guests at a gathering. Its unique flavors and quick preparation make it a standout choice for anyone craving an authentic taste of Japan.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, Yaki Udon with Shrimp is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of shrimp, veggies, and savory sauces creates a mouthwatering experience in every bite.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu, making it adaptable to your dietary preferences.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required as everything cooks in one pan, allowing you to enjoy more time with family and friends.
• Healthy Option: Packed with vegetables and lean protein, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking Yaki Udon with Shrimp even easier. Before you begin, gather the essential kitchen equipment to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or large frying pan: A spacious cooking surface allows for even heat distribution and easy tossing of ingredients.
• Wooden spatula: This tool prevents scratching non-stick surfaces while providing good control when stirring.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures precise cuts for vegetables, enhancing the dish’s presentation and texture.

Ingredients

This Yaki Udon is a quick and delicious Japanese noodles stir fry dish with shrimp and veggies.

Ingredients:
– 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)
– 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: Boil the Noodles

1. Boil the udon noodles according to the package instructions.
2. Drain the noodles and rinse them with cold water.
3. Drizzle some oil over the noodles and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a wok or large frying pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and toast for about 1 minute.
3. Stir in the sliced mushrooms, cooking until they are tender.
4. Add the onions, white part of spring onions, and carrots; stir for another 2–3 minutes.
5. Sprinkle with salt and pepper before removing the cooked veggies from the pan.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

1. In the same pan, add an additional 2 tbsp of oil over medium-high heat.
2. Fry the shrimp until they turn pink, about 3–4 minutes.
3. Add soy sauce along with a pinch of salt while cooking.

Step 4: Combine Noodles and Sauce

1. Add the boiled udon noodles to the pan with shrimp.
2. Stir-fry on high heat continuously so that all noodles slightly crisp up evenly.

Step 5: Final Touches

1. Pour in your prepared sauce mixture over the noodles.
2. Toss in your sautéed vegetables from earlier into the noodle mixture.
3. Turn off heat; sprinkle green parts of spring onion on top.

Step 6: Serve

Take out servings onto plates and enjoy your delicious Yaki Udon with Shrimp!

How to Serve Yaki Udon with Shrimp

Yaki Udon with Shrimp is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavor and presentation. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Cilantro: Adds a fresh, herbal touch that complements the savory flavors.
• Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for added crunch and nutty flavor.

Pair with a Side Salad

• Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar offers a crisp contrast to the noodles.
• Seaweed Salad: This tangy salad adds an umami kick that pairs perfectly with the shrimp.

Serve with Additional Sauces

• Spicy Mayo: A drizzle of spicy mayo can add a creamy heat to your dish.
• Soy Sauce: Offer extra soy sauce on the side for those who prefer more seasoning.

Add Extra Protein

• Fried Tofu: Crispy fried tofu cubes can be added for a vegetarian option or extra protein.
• Eggs: Top with a fried or poached egg for richness and additional flavor.

How to Perfect Yaki Udon with Shrimp

To make your Yaki Udon with Shrimp truly special, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure each bite is packed with flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and shrimp make a significant difference in taste.
• High Heat Cooking: Stir-frying on high heat helps to achieve that perfect slightly crispy texture on the noodles.
• Do Not Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in batches if necessary to keep everything cooking evenly without steaming.
• Customize Your Sauce: Feel free to adjust the soy sauce or add chili paste for extra kick according to your taste preferences.
• Add More Veggies: Incorporate seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or snow peas for added nutrition and color.
• Rest Before Serving: Letting the dish sit for a minute after cooking helps flavors meld together.

Best Side Dishes for Yaki Udon with Shrimp

Serving Yaki Udon with Shrimp alongside complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Edamame: Steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt makes a healthy, protein-rich snack.
2. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup offers a comforting start to your meal, enhancing the Japanese theme.
3. Tempura Vegetables: Lightly battered and fried veggies provide a crunchy contrast.
4. Gyoza Dumplings: Flavorful dumplings stuffed with meat or veggies can be served as an appetizer or side.
5. Pickled Vegetables: A small serving of pickled radishes or cucumbers adds tanginess and brightness to balance the main dish.
6. Japanese Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad made with Japanese mayo is a delightful side that everyone enjoys.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Yaki Udon with Shrimp can be simple, but there are some pitfalls to watch out for. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Using the wrong noodles: Always use udon noodles, preferably vacuum-packed. Other types may not have the right texture or flavor.
• Overcooking the shrimp: Cook shrimp just until they turn pink. Overcooked shrimp become tough and rubbery, ruining your dish.
• Not prepping ingredients beforehand: Stir-frying is quick! Prepare all your ingredients before starting to cook to ensure a smooth process.
• Skipping the rinsing step: Rinse boiled udon noodles under cold water. This prevents them from sticking together and helps maintain a good texture.
• Not adjusting seasoning: Taste as you cook! Adjust soy sauce or salt levels based on your preference for a perfectly balanced flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Yaki Udon with Shrimp in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Yaki Udon with Shrimp

• Place cooled Yaki Udon in freezer-safe containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Yaki Udon with Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil, and heat for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water or oil to a pan over medium heat. Stir continuously until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use frozen shrimp for Yaki Udon with Shrimp?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just thaw them properly before cooking to ensure even cooking.

What vegetables can I add to Yaki Udon with Shrimp?

Feel free to customize your dish by adding bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for extra crunch and nutrition.

How do I make my Yaki Udon with Shrimp spicier?

Add chili flakes or sriracha sauce during cooking for a spicy kick that complements the dish well.

Is Yaki Udon with Shrimp suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It’s perfect for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge or freezer, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Yaki Udon with Shrimp is not only quick and delicious but also highly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding different vegetables or proteins based on your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a flavorful Japanese stir fry at home!

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Yaki Udon with Shrimp

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 2 people 1x

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Description

Yaki Udon with Shrimp is a quick and delicious Japanese stir-fry that brings together tender udon noodles, succulent shrimp, and colorful vegetables.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 200g udon noodles (preferably vacuum-packed)
• 2 tbsp neutral oil
• 100g shrimp (8–10 pieces)
• 1 garlic clove (minced)
• 1 yellow onion (sliced)
• 120g white mushrooms (sliced, about 8 pieces)
• 1 carrot (cut into matchsticks)
• 1 spring onion (chopped, green and white parts separated)
• Soy sauce, oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, black pepper, toasted sesame oil

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Instructions

1. Boil udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water. Drizzle with oil and set aside.
2. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a wok over medium-high heat. Sauté garlic for 1 minute; add mushrooms and cook until tender. Stir in onions and carrots for another 2–3 minutes; season and remove from pan.
3. In the same pan, add remaining oil over medium-high heat. Fry shrimp until pink (3–4 minutes), then add soy sauce.
4. Combine boiled noodles with shrimp in the pan; stir-fry on high heat until noodles are slightly crispy.
5. Add sautéed veggies back into the mix along with sauce ingredients; toss well and top with spring onion greens before serving.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (about 400g)
• Calories: 470
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 950mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 150mg