Yaki Udon with Shrimp Recipe

If you are craving a dish that’s bursting with vibrant flavors, delightful textures, and comes together in a flash, this Yaki Udon with Shrimp is an absolute must-try. This Japanese-inspired stir-fry perfectly balances tender udon noodles and succulent shrimp with a medley of fresh vegetables, all brought together by a savory, slightly sweet sauce. It’s comfort food elevated, perfect for weeknights when you want something quick yet special. Once you master this recipe, Yaki Udon with Shrimp will become your go-to for a satisfying and umami-packed meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right is the key to making this Yaki Udon with Shrimp come alive with flavor and texture. Each ingredient serves an essential role, whether it’s adding sweetness, depth, crunch, or that signature silky chew from the udon noodles.

• Udon noodles (200g): These thick, chewy noodles are the star base, perfect for soaking up the sauce.
• Neutral oil (2 tbsp): Ideal for high-heat frying without overpowering the dish’s flavors.
• Shrimp (8-10, about 100g): Adds a delicate seafood taste and a satisfying bite.
• Garlic (1 clove, minced): Brings aromatic warmth and a punch of savory depth.
• Yellow onion (1, sliced): Sweetens the dish and balances the saltiness.
• White mushrooms (8, sliced): Earthy flavor and a meaty texture to complement the shrimp.
• Carrot (1, matchstick-cut): Provides vibrant color and a slight crunch.
• Spring onion (1, green and white separated and chopped): Adds freshness and mild sharpness.
• Soy sauce (1 tbsp): Classic salty umami to season the dish.
• Oyster sauce (1 tbsp): Rich and slightly sweet, it deepens the seafood flavor.
• Dark soy sauce (1 tsp): A touch for color and complexity without added saltiness.
• Rice vinegar (1 tsp): Balances richness with a gentle tang.
• Brown sugar (1 tsp): Adds a harmonious sweetness to the sauce.
• Freshly crushed black pepper (1/3 tsp): Brings subtle warmth and kick.
• Toasted sesame oil (2 tsp): Infuses the dish with that irresistible nutty aroma.
• Salt and pepper (pinch): To season the veggies and shrimp perfectly.

How to Make Yaki Udon with Shrimp

Step 1: Preparing the Udon Noodles

Start by boiling the udon noodles according to the package instructions until they’re perfectly tender yet still slightly chewy. Once cooked, drain and rinse them under cold water to halt the cooking process. Drizzle a little neutral oil over the noodles to prevent sticking and set them aside — this simple step ensures your noodles stay luscious and don’t clump together later on.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables

Heat 1 tablespoon of neutral oil over high heat in a large pan or wok. Add the minced garlic first and toast it for about a minute until fragrant; this infuses the oil and the entire dish with an irresistible aroma. Next, toss in the sliced mushrooms and stir continuously to cook them evenly until tender. Follow with the sliced yellow onions, white parts of the spring onions, and the matchstick-cut carrots. Stir the vegetables for 2 to 3 minutes until they soften just the right amount but keep their fresh crunch. Sprinkle a pinch of salt and freshly ground pepper to enhance the natural flavors, then remove the vegetables from the pan and set them aside.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

In the same pan, add an additional 2 tablespoons of neutral oil. Once heated, add the shrimp and season with a pinch of salt and 1 tablespoon of soy sauce. Fry the shrimp on high heat, stirring occasionally until they turn pink and opaque, which should take a few minutes. This quick cooking method locks in their juiciness while giving each piece a lightly charred flavor that pairs beautifully with the noodles.

Step 4: Fry the Udon Noodles

After the shrimp are cooked, add the prepared udon noodles to the pan. Turn the heat up to high and fry the noodles while stirring continuously. This part is essential because you want the noodles to warm through and develop a slightly toasted, crisp texture on the surfaces without burning. This contrast of textures makes Yaki Udon with Shrimp so compelling and enjoyable.

Step 5: Add the Sauce

Now it’s time to pour in the magic sauce. Combine oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and freshly crushed black pepper in a small bowl, then add it directly to the pan. Stir well to coat every noodle and piece of shrimp, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and glaze the mixture evenly. These layers of umami richness will make your taste buds sing.

Step 6: Toss in the Vegetables

Return the sautéed vegetables to the pan and give everything a good toss. The mix of shrimp, noodles, and veggies meld together in the warmth, making every bite a harmonious explosion of texture and flavor. This beautiful balance is what gives Yaki Udon with Shrimp its signature crave-worthy appeal.

Step 7: Finish with Spring Onions

Turn off the heat and sprinkle the green parts of the chopped spring onions on top. Their fresh, mild sharpness provides the perfect finishing touch, brightening the robust flavors and giving you a burst of color that makes the dish irresistible.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Transfer your Yaki Udon with Shrimp onto a plate and dive in while it’s hot! The satisfying combination of tender noodles, sweet and savory shrimp, crunchy veggies, and rich sauce will have you coming back for seconds in no time.

How to Serve Yaki Udon with Shrimp

Garnishes

Enhance your serving by sprinkling toasted sesame seeds or a small drizzle of extra toasted sesame oil for added nuttiness. A few chili flakes or slices of fresh red chili can add an exciting kick that balances the dish’s sweetness and savoriness perfectly.

Side Dishes

This Yaki Udon with Shrimp stands tall on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, consider serving it alongside a simple miso soup or a crisp cucumber salad with rice vinegar dressing. These light sides provide refreshing contrasts and make the meal even more satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elegant presentation, serve the Yaki Udon with Shrimp in a large, shallow bowl topped with microgreens or edible flowers for color and freshness. Alternatively, use individual small cast-iron skillets for a rustic, cozy vibe that keeps the noodles warm at the table and heightens the dining experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Yaki Udon with Shrimp in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. The noodles may firm up, but reheating gently will bring back most of their original texture without becoming mushy.

Freezing

While it’s possible to freeze Yaki Udon with Shrimp, keep in mind that udon noodles may become slightly softer upon thawing. Freeze in meal-sized portions using a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 1 month.

Reheating

The best way to reheat is in a hot pan or wok over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the noodles and refresh the dish. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can dry out the shrimp and veggies.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for Yaki Udon with Shrimp?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp fully and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture, which can affect the stir-frying process.

What can I substitute for oyster sauce?

If you don’t have oyster sauce, you can use hoisin sauce or a mix of soy sauce and a little sugar, but keep in mind it will alter the flavor slightly since oyster sauce has a unique, deep seafood umami.

Is Yaki Udon with Shrimp spicy?

This recipe is naturally mild, but you can easily add spice by including chili flakes, fresh chilis, or even a dash of chili oil during cooking or as a garnish.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Definitely! Skip the shrimp and replace oyster sauce with vegetarian mushroom sauce or a combination of soy sauce and a touch of mushroom broth for umami depth.

Why is the dark soy sauce important?

Dark soy sauce adds a richer color and slightly sweeter depth than regular soy sauce, enhancing the dish’s appearance and flavor complexity without making it saltier.

Final Thoughts

Yaki Udon with Shrimp is such a joy to make and even more delightful to eat. Its balance of flavors, textures, and the ease of preparation make it a perfect recipe to keep in your culinary rotation. I encourage you to give it a try; once you do, I’m confident this dish will feel like a beloved favorite you’ll turn to again and again. Happy cooking and even happier eating!

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