Udon Noodle Recipe (with Video)

Udon Noodle Recipe: Udon noodles are a beloved Japanese dish known for their thick, chewy texture and versatility. Whether served in a hot broth or a cold dipping sauce, homemade Udon offers a fresh and authentic taste that surpasses store-bought varieties. Making Udon from scratch may seem intimidating, but with a few simple ingredients and the right techniques, you can create delicious noodles at home.

Ingredients for Homemade Udon Noodles

To make authentic Udon noodles, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients:

Essential Ingredients:

• All-Purpose Flour (or Bread Flour) – 2 ½ cups
• Salt – 1 tablespoon
• Water – ¾ cup

Possible Substitutions:

• Gluten-Free Option: Use rice flour and xanthan gum instead of wheat flour.
• Whole Wheat Alternative: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier version.
• Low-Sodium Version: Reduce the salt and add a pinch of baking soda for elasticity.

Tools You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rolling pin
• Sharp knife or pasta cutter
• Large pot for boiling
• Strainer for rinsing

How to Make Udon Noodle – Step by Step Guide

Step 1: Making the Udon Dough

1. Dissolve the Salt in Water: In a small bowl, mix the salt into warm water until fully dissolved.
2. Mix with Flour: In a large bowl, gradually add the salty water to the flour while mixing with your hands or a wooden spoon.
3. Knead the Dough: Transfer the mixture to a flat surface and knead for about 10 minutes until it forms a smooth, elastic ball. If the dough is too dry, add a tiny amount of water; if too sticky, add a bit more flour.

Step 2: Resting the Dough

Resting the dough is crucial for gluten development and the chewy texture of Udon noodles.

• Wrap the dough in plastic wrap or a damp towel.
• Let it rest at room temperature for at least 1-2 hours (or overnight for better results).

Step 3: Rolling and Cutting the Noodles

1. Flatten the Dough: Dust a surface with flour and roll out the dough to about ⅛ inch thickness.
2. Fold and Cut: Lightly fold the sheet of dough, then slice it into even strips about ¼ inch wide.
3. Separate the Strands: Gently toss the cut noodles in flour to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Cooking the Udon Noodles

1. Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil.
2. Add the Udon noodles and stir to prevent sticking.
3. Cook for about 8-10 minutes until they float and turn chewy.
4. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and remove excess starch.

Step 5: Rinsing and Storing

• Rinsing: This step enhances the texture by removing excess starch.
• Storing: Store fresh Udon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

Classic Udon Broth Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 cups dashi stock
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon mirin
• ½ teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Bring the dashi stock to a simmer.
2. Stir in soy sauce, mirin, and salt.
3. Simmer for 5 minutes and serve with hot Udon noodles.

Popular Udon Variations

• Kitsune Udon: Topped with sweet fried tofu.
• Tempura Udon: Served with crispy tempura shrimp.
• Curry Udon: Udon noodles in a thick Japanese curry sauce.

Serving Suggestions and Toppings

• Toppings: Green onions, sesame seeds, tempura flakes, seaweed, and poached eggs.
• Side Dishes: Onigiri (rice balls), edamame, and miso soup.

Tips for Perfect Udon Noodles

• Always use high-gluten flour for the best chewiness.
• Knead well and let the dough rest properly.
• Cut noodles evenly to ensure uniform cooking.

Health Benefits of Udon Noodles

• Low in fat and high in complex carbohydrates.
• Good source of energy and easily digestible.
• Can be made with whole wheat flour for extra fiber.

Pairing Udon with Side Dishes

• Miso soup
• Japanese pickles
• Grilled fish

FAQs about Udon Noodle Recipe

What are udon noodles made of?

Udon noodles are thick, chewy noodles made primarily from wheat flour, water, and salt. They are a staple in Japanese cuisine and are known for their smooth, satisfying texture.

How do I cook udon noodles?

To cook udon noodles, simply boil them in a large pot of water for about 4-8 minutes, depending on whether they are fresh or dried. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and remove excess starch.

Can I make udon noodles gluten-free?

Traditional udon noodles contain wheat, making them not suitable for a gluten-free diet. However, you can find gluten-free alternatives made from rice flour or other gluten-free grains at specialty stores or online.

What are some common toppings for udon noodle dishes?

Common toppings include sliced green onions, tempura, tofu, mushrooms, and boiled eggs. For added flavor, you can also include nori (seaweed), grated ginger, or wasabi.

What is the best broth for udon noodles?

A simple and popular broth for udon is made from dashi (a Japanese soup stock), soy sauce, and mirin (a sweet rice wine). This combination creates a savory, umami-rich base that complements the mild flavor of the noodles.

Can udon noodles be used in stir-fries?

Yes, udon noodles are excellent in stir-fries. Simply cook the noodles according to package instructions, then add them to your stir-fry at the end, allowing them to soak up the flavors of your sauce and other ingredients.

How do I store leftover udon noodles?

Leftover udon noodles can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat by quickly blanching in boiling water or adding directly to hot broth or stir-fry dishes.

Conclusion

Homemade Udon noodles are not only delicious but also fun to make. With the right ingredients and steps, you can enjoy authentic Udon in the comfort of your home. Try experimenting with different broths and toppings to create your favorite variation!