Description
A flavorful and comforting Kimchi Udon recipe that combines chewy udon noodles with tangy, spicy kimchi and aromatic scallions. This Korean-Japanese fusion stir-fry is quick to prepare and perfect for a satisfying vegetarian meal, with optional additions for extra protein.
Ingredients
Scale
Noodles
- 2 packs (7–8 ounces each) fresh or frozen udon noodles
Sauce & Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 cup well-fermented kimchi, chopped
- 1 tablespoon kimchi juice
- 2 teaspoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 cup water or broth (as needed)
Vegetables & Garnishes
- 2–3 scallions, sliced (whites and greens separated)
- Toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Fried or soft-boiled egg (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Noodles: If using frozen udon noodles, cook according to package instructions, then drain and set aside. If using vacuum-sealed fresh noodles, rinse under hot water to loosen them.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the white parts of the scallions and minced garlic, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook Kimchi: Stir in the chopped kimchi and cook for 2–3 minutes until it starts to caramelize and release its flavors.
- Add Seasonings: Pour in the kimchi juice, soy sauce, sesame oil, and sugar. Stir to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.
- Combine Udon Noodles: Add the cooked udon noodles to the skillet along with a splash of water or broth to help loosen and coat the noodles evenly. Toss everything together and stir-fry for another 1–2 minutes until heated through and well mixed.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the stir-fry from heat. Top with the scallion greens, toasted sesame seeds, and a fried or soft-boiled egg if desired. Serve hot for best flavor.
Notes
- For extra protein, add tofu, sliced pork belly, or shredded chicken to the stir-fry.
- Use gochujang (Korean chili paste) to add heat and depth of flavor if you prefer a spicier dish.
- The recipe is vegetarian-friendly if you omit the egg and any meat additions.
- Adjust the amount of kimchi juice and soy sauce to balance saltiness and tanginess to your taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
