If you’re searching for a dish that is quick, flavorful, and utterly satisfying, then this Yaki Udon | Stir Fried Udon Noodles Recipe is going to become your new go-to. This classic Japanese stir fry combines thick, chewy udon noodles with a perfectly balanced savory sauce, tender ground meat, and crisp-tender vegetables. Ready in just about 20 minutes, it’s the kind of meal that feels special but comes together with minimal fuss—ideal for busy weeknights or whenever you crave something comforting with bold, umami-packed flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this dish lies in its simplicity and balance. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating that perfect harmony of textures and flavors—whether it’s the chewy udon noodles providing substance, the fresh vegetables adding crunch and color, or the rich, savory sauce tying everything together in a mouthwatering umami symphony.
- 2 packets udon noodles (total 13 oz): These thick, soft noodles are the heart of the dish, offering a wonderfully chewy texture that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
- 2½ cups stir fry vegetables: A mix like mushrooms, bok choy, and onions brings color, freshness, and nutritional goodness—feel free to customize with your favorite veggies.
- 2 stalks scallions: Cut into 2-inch pieces, they add a mild oniony sharpness and pop of green that brightens the plate.
- ½ lb ground meat (beef, chicken, turkey, or shrimp): This protein adds richness and depth; choose your favorite or even go plant-based for a twist.
- 1 Tablespoon avocado oil: Perfect for high-heat cooking, it ensures your stir fry ingredients cook evenly without burning.
- Yaki Udon Noodle Sauce:
- 2½ Tablespoons dark soy sauce: Adds deep salty umami.
- 2 Tablespoons oyster sauce: Brings a slightly sweet and savory note that’s signature to yaki udon.
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar: Balances out the saltiness with a touch of sweetness.
- ½ teaspoon rice vinegar: Adds a subtle tang to brighten the whole dish.
How to Make Yaki Udon | Stir Fried Udon Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
Begin by mixing the dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, and rice vinegar in a small bowl. This sauce is simple but packs a powerful punch of flavors that perfectly complement the noodles and meat. Set it aside while you prep the rest of your ingredients.
Step 2: Cook the Udon Noodles
Bring a pot of water to boil and add your udon noodles directly if they’re frozen, or remove from packaging if fresh. Stir gently to separate the noodles as they warm. Because these noodles are already cooked, keep it brief—about 1 to 2 minutes—to avoid mushiness. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process, then toss with a little oil to prevent sticking if you won’t use them immediately.
Step 3: Stir Fry the Meat and Vegetables
Heat your pan or wok over high heat and add the avocado oil. Once hot, add the ground meat and stir fry until it’s nearly cooked through, breaking it apart as you go. Then toss in your stir fry vegetables and continue cooking until the meat is fully done and the vegetables are just tender but still crisp enough to keep their texture.
Step 4: Combine Noodles, Sauce, and Scallions
Add the drained udon noodles, the prepared sauce, and the scallions to your pan. Stir fry everything together for about 3 minutes, making sure the noodles are well coated in sauce and everything is heated through. Adjust the sauce quantity to your taste preference if you like it saucier or lighter. Then it’s ready to serve—hot, flavorful, and utterly delicious!
How to Serve Yaki Udon | Stir Fried Udon Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate your yaki udon to the next level. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds for a pleasant crunch and nutty flavor. Fresh chopped cilantro or shiso leaves also add brightness. If you like a bit of heat, a few red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil can beautifully complement the savory notes.
Side Dishes
Yaki udon pairs wonderfully with light and fresh sides. A crisp cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar or a bowl of miso soup can provide contrast to the rich noodles, adding variety without stealing the spotlight. Pickled ginger on the side can also cleanse your palate between bites.
Creative Ways to Present
For a casual dinner, serve your yaki udon straight from the wok for an inviting, family-style experience. If you want to impress, plate it neatly on a large white platter with neatly arranged scallions and garnishes on top. You can even add a soft boiled egg or crispy tempura on the side for a more hearty presentation that dazzles both the eyes and the appetite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover yaki udon stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The noodles might soak up the sauce and thicken, but a quick reheat with a splash of water or broth can restore their perfect texture and flavor.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, it’s best to avoid freezing stir fried udon noodles if you want to preserve the original texture. The noodles may become mushy or separate when thawed. If you do freeze, flash freeze in a single layer first, then transfer to a freezer bag and reheat gently to avoid overcooking.
Reheating
Reheat your yaki udon in a hot skillet or wok with a splash of water or broth to loosen it up and revive that fresh-from-the-wok flavor. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can dry out the noodles or produce uneven heat.
FAQs
Can I use other types of noodles instead of udon?
Absolutely! While udon noodles are traditional for this recipe, you can substitute with thick rice noodles or even lo mein noodles. Just adjust cooking times to avoid overcooking.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
Yes! Simply replace the ground meat with firm tofu, tempeh, or extra vegetables, and swap oyster sauce for a vegan substitute or mushroom-based sauce to keep it rich and savory.
What vegetables work best in yaki udon?
Mushrooms, bok choy, onions, bell peppers, and snap peas all work beautifully. Choose vegetables that can handle quick high-heat cooking and add great texture and color.
How spicy is the yaki udon sauce?
The sauce itself is not spicy, focusing on umami and slight sweetness. However, you can add chili flakes or sriracha to spice it up according to your taste.
Can I prepare the noodles and sauce in advance?
Yes, you can boil and rinse the noodles and make the sauce ahead of time. Store separately until ready to stir fry for the freshest result.
Final Thoughts
This Yaki Udon | Stir Fried Udon Noodles Recipe has quickly become a favorite for good reason—it’s fast, simple, and delivers on flavor every single time. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this recipe invites you to enjoy the heartwarming taste of Japanese street food right in your kitchen. Trust me, once you try it, yaki udon will be a regular in your dinner rotation!
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Yaki Udon | Stir Fried Udon Noodles Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
Description
Yaki Udon is a simple and delicious Japanese stir-fried noodle dish featuring chewy udon noodles, savory ground meat, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful five-ingredient sauce. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s a perfect quick meal that combines tender stir-fried noodles with a rich umami sauce.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 packets udon noodles (total 13 oz vacuum packed noodles)
- 2½ cups stir fry vegetables, chopped (mushrooms, bok choy, onions)
- 2 stalks scallions, cut into 2-inch lengths
- ½ lb ground meat (beef, chicken, turkey, or shrimp)
- 1 Tablespoon avocado oil
Yaki Udon Noodle Sauce
- 2½ Tablespoons dark soy sauce
- 2 Tablespoons oyster sauce
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon rice vinegar
Instructions
- Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, combine 2½ tablespoons dark soy sauce, 2 tablespoons oyster sauce, 2 teaspoons brown sugar, and ½ teaspoon rice vinegar. Mix well and set aside to let the flavors meld.
- Cook the udon noodles: Remove udon noodles from packaging. If frozen, add directly to a pot of boiling water; if fresh, do the same. Stir gently until noodles separate and become pliable, about 1–2 minutes. Avoid overcooking to keep noodles firm and chewy. Drain noodles and rinse under cold water. If not using immediately, toss with a little oil to prevent sticking.
- Stir fry the meat and vegetables: Heat 1 tablespoon avocado oil in a large pan or wok over high heat. Add ½ lb ground meat and stir fry until almost cooked through. Add 2½ cups chopped stir fry vegetables and continue cooking until meat is fully cooked and vegetables soften.
- Combine noodles and sauce: Add the drained udon noodles, prepared sauce, and 2 stalks sliced scallions to the pan. Stir fry everything together for about 3 minutes, ensuring that the noodles are well coated with the sauce and heated through.
- Serve: Once well combined and heated thoroughly, remove from heat and serve immediately for best taste and texture.
Notes
- Udon noodles are pre-cooked, so they require only brief boiling to separate and warm.
- Adjust the amount of sauce according to your taste preference.
- Substitute ground meat with tofu or shrimp for variation.
- Use any preferred stir fry vegetables such as bell peppers or snap peas.
- For a spicier dish, add chili flakes or chili paste to the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir Frying
- Cuisine: Asian, Japanese
