Why You’ll Love Udon Noodle Soup Recipe
This recipe is simple yet deeply flavorful, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced home cooks. The broth is light but packed with umami, allowing the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine through.
It’s also incredibly versatile. You can keep it vegetarian, add your favorite protein, or customize the toppings based on what you have in your kitchen. The cooking process is straightforward, and the soup comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends at home.
Most importantly, this dish delivers comfort. The combination of warm broth and thick udon noodles creates a nourishing bowl that feels both hearty and balanced.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
200 g udon noodles
4 cups dashi broth
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon mirin
100 g shiitake mushrooms, sliced
100 g firm tofu, cubed
2 green onions, chopped
1 sheet nori, cut into thin strips
Salt to taste
Directions
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Cook the udon noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
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In a medium pot, bring the dashi broth to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
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Stir in the soy sauce and mirin. Taste and add a small amount of salt if needed.
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Add the sliced shiitake mushrooms and cubed tofu to the simmering broth. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the tofu is heated through.
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Divide the cooked udon noodles between serving bowls.
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Carefully ladle the hot broth, mushrooms, and tofu over the noodles.
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Garnish with chopped green onions and strips of nori. Serve immediately while hot.
Servings and timing
Servings: 2 bowls
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Variations
For a heartier version, add sliced chicken, shrimp, or thinly sliced beef to the broth. If you prefer a richer soup, stir in a spoonful of miso paste before serving. You can also add vegetables such as spinach, bok choy, carrots, or snap peas for extra color and nutrition. A soft-boiled egg placed on top adds creaminess and depth. For a spicy kick, drizzle a little chili oil or sprinkle in red pepper flakes.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover broth and noodles separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keeping them separate helps prevent the noodles from becoming overly soft.
To reheat, warm the broth in a saucepan over medium heat until hot. Add the noodles just before serving and cook briefly until heated through. If the broth has reduced, you can add a splash of water to adjust the consistency.
Freezing is best done with the broth only. Cook fresh noodles when ready to serve for the best texture.
FAQs
What are udon noodles made from?
Udon noodles are traditionally made from wheat flour, water, and salt. They are known for their thick, chewy texture.
Can I use vegetable broth instead of dashi?
Yes, vegetable broth works well as a substitute. While it will have a slightly different flavor profile, it will still be delicious.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
It can be vegetarian if you use plant-based dashi or vegetable broth instead of traditional fish-based dashi.
Can I use dried udon noodles?
Yes, dried udon noodles work perfectly. Just follow the package instructions for cooking time.
How can I make the soup gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free noodles and ensure the soy sauce is labeled gluten-free.
What protein can I add to this soup?
You can add chicken, shrimp, beef, or even a poached or soft-boiled egg for additional protein.
Why should I store the noodles separately?
Storing noodles separately prevents them from absorbing too much broth and becoming overly soft.
Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?
You can prepare the broth in advance and refrigerate it. Cook the noodles fresh when you are ready to serve.
What toppings go well with udon noodle soup?
Popular toppings include green onions, nori, sesame seeds, tempura flakes, and soft-boiled eggs.
How do I make the broth more flavorful?
You can enhance the broth by adding a small piece of kombu, a splash of extra soy sauce, or a spoonful of miso paste.
Conclusion
Udon noodle soup is a simple yet deeply comforting dish that brings warmth and flavor to the table with minimal effort. Its rich broth, tender noodles, and customizable toppings make it a versatile recipe you can return to again and again. Whether you enjoy it as a light lunch or a satisfying dinner, this cozy bowl is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
