Can I make Japanese stir-fried udon noodles ahead of time?

While these noodles are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare all the components ahead of time. Chop vegetables, mix the sauce, and store them separately in the refrigerator. The actual cooking takes just 8 minutes when everything is prepped.

What's the difference between udon and other Asian noodles?

Udon noodles are thick, chewy Japanese wheat noodles. They're thicker than ramen or soba noodles and have a satisfyingly chewy texture that holds up well to stir-frying. Their neutral flavor makes them perfect for absorbing the savory sauce in this dish.

Can I make Japanese stir-fried udon noodles vegetarian or vegan?

Absolutely! Simply omit the meat and use tofu or additional vegetables. Replace the oyster sauce with mushroom-based vegetarian oyster sauce or additional soy sauce with a pinch of sugar to maintain that umami flavor.

Where can I find udon noodles?

Most grocery stores carry udon noodles in the Asian food section. They come in several forms: vacuum-sealed fresh, dried, or in the refrigerated section. For this recipe, the vacuum-sealed or refrigerated versions work best as they require minimal preparation.

My noodles are sticking together. What should I do?

If your udon noodles are clumping, rinse them under warm water and gently separate them before adding to the pan. During cooking, a splash of water or additional sauce can help separate stubborn noodles. Keep the heat high and keep everything moving in the pan.

Japanese Stir-Fried Udon Noodles Recipe That Will Wow Your Taste Buds 2025

Name: Japanese Stir-Fried Udon Noodles Recipe That Will Wow Your Taste Buds
Prep time: PT-488141H2M43S
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 2 packages (14–16 oz total) pre-cooked udon noodles; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided; 1 small onion, thinly sliced; 2 carrots, julienned; 2 cups cabbage, chopped; 2 green onions, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger; 8 oz thinly sliced beef, chicken, tofu, or shrimp; 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari); 1 tablespoon mirin; 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (or mushroom-based vegetarian oyster sauce); 1 teaspoon brown sugar; 1 teaspoon sesame oil

Japanese Stir-Fried Udon Noodles Recipe That Will Wow Your Taste Buds

Print Recipe

These Easy Japanese Stir-Fried Udon Noodles are a 15-minute weeknight wonder! Thick, chewy udon noodles tossed with savory sauce, crisp-tender veggies, and your favorite protein – all in one pan. Quick, customizable, and better than takeout!

Author: Harmony
Prep Time: 5–7 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Dinner
Method: Stir-Fry
Cuisine: Japanese

Ingredients

Scale

2 packages (14–16 oz total) pre-cooked udon noodles
2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
1 small onion, thinly sliced
2 carrots, julienned
2 cups cabbage, chopped
2 green onions, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
8 oz thinly sliced beef, chicken, tofu, or shrimp

For the Sauce:

3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari)
1 tablespoon mirin
1 tablespoon oyster sauce (or mushroom-based vegetarian oyster sauce)
1 teaspoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon sesame oil

Instructions

If using vacuum-packed udon, rinse under warm water to loosen. Drain well and set aside.
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, mirin, oyster sauce, brown sugar, and sesame oil. Set aside.
Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Cook protein until just done (2–3 minutes). Remove and set aside.
Add remaining oil to pan. Stir-fry onion for 1 minute, then add carrots and cabbage. Cook for 2 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
Add garlic and ginger. Stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add udon noodles and pour sauce over. Toss well to coat evenly. Return protein to pan and add green onions.
Stir-fry for 1–2 more minutes until heated through. Serve immediately.

Notes

For extra flavor, garnish with sesame seeds, nori flakes, or a soft-boiled egg. To prevent sticky noodles, rinse them first and toss with a splash of oil if prepping in advance.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl (¼ of recipe)
Calories: 380
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 890mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 52g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 18g
Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: stir fried udon, japanese noodles, easy weeknight meal, 15 minute dinner, udon stir fry, asian noodle recipe

Find it online: https://harmonymeal.com/japanese-stir-fried-udon-noodles/