Savory and Delicious Vegan Udon Recipe

Ingredients

2 packs of Udon noodles (200 grams each)
4 cups of vegetable broth
2 tablespoons of soy sauce
2 tablespoons of mirin
1 tablespoon of sugar
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, peeled and minced
1 cup of sliced mushrooms
1 cup of chopped bok choy
1 medium carrot, peeled and sliced
1/2 cup of sliced green onions
1/2 cup of cubed firm tofu
1 tablespoon of sesame oil
Red pepper flakes, to taste
1 nori sheet, shredded, for garnishing

Steps and instructions

Prepare the udon noodles according to the instructions on the package. Once cooked, drain and rinse them under cold water. Set aside.
In a large pot, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Sauté until fragrant.
Add the mushrooms, bok choy, and carrots to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
Pour in the vegetable broth, soy sauce, mirin, and sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Add the tofu cubes to the pot. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
Divide the cooked udon noodles among four bowls. Pour the hot broth and vegetables over the noodles in each bowl.
Garnish each bowl with green onions and shredded nori before serving.

Tools for making

Large pot - Needed to cook the udon noodles and prepare the broth.
Knife - To mince the garlic and ginger, and to slice the vegetables.
Cutting board - Used as a surface for chopping and preparing ingredients.
Strainer - Used to drain and rinse the cooked udon noodles.
Spatula - To sauté the garlic, ginger, and vegetables.
Measuring spoons - Needed to accurately measure the soy sauce, mirin, sugar, and sesame oil.
Tongs - To handle and stir the ingredients while cooking.
Bowls - To serve the udon noodles and broth.
Soup ladle - Used to pour the hot broth over the noodles.
Grater - To grate the ginger.
Kitchen timer - Optional but helpful for timing the cooking process.

Recipe variations

Add some sliced tofu or tempeh for extra protein.
Include different vegetables such as bell peppers, snow peas, or baby corn.
For a spicy kick, add a teaspoon of sriracha or chili paste to the broth.
Experiment with different types of mushrooms like shiitake or oyster mushrooms.
Garnish with sesame seeds or crushed peanuts for added texture.
For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free udon noodles or substitute with rice noodles.
Replace the vegetable broth with miso soup for a different flavor profile.
Add a splash of rice vinegar for a tangy twist.
Include some freshly squeezed lime juice for a citrusy flavor.
If you prefer a heartier dish, add some cooked lentils or chickpeas to the soup.

Recipe overview

This flavorful Vegan Udon recipe is a healthy and delicious comfort food that's perfect for any time of the year. Udon noodles are combined with a savory vegetable broth, a variety of fresh vegetables, and tofu for a hearty meal. The dish is wonderfully balanced with a mix of sweetness from mirin, saltiness from soy sauce, and a hint of spice from red pepper flakes. Topped off with a sprinkle of green onions and shredded nori, this vegan udon dish is sure to impress. Whether you're a longtime vegan or just looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, this recipe is a must-try. Expect a dish that's not only filling and satisfying but also packed with nutrients and flavor.

Common questions

Can I use other types of noodles instead of udon?
Yes, you can substitute udon noodles with soba noodles or rice noodles if desired. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
Can I use vegetable stock instead of vegetable broth?
Yes, vegetable stock can be used as a substitute for vegetable broth in this recipe. The flavor may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.
Is there a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce?
Yes, you can use tamari or coconut aminos as a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce in this recipe. Just ensure the brand you choose is gluten-free.
Can I add other vegetables to this udon soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to add any of your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, snow peas, or spinach. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are cooked to your liking.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Yes, you can add additional red pepper flakes or even some sriracha sauce to make the udon soup spicier. Adjust the amount according to your taste preferences.

Serving dishes and utensils

Large pot - Needed to cook the vegetables and broth.
Strainer - Used to drain and rinse the cooked udon noodles.
Chopping board - Used to chop the vegetables.
Knife - Needed to mince the garlic and ginger, and to slice the vegetables.
Measuring spoons - Used to accurately measure the soy sauce, mirin, and sugar.
Stove - Required for cooking the ingredients.
Bowls - Used for serving the udon soup.
Soup ladle - Used to pour the hot broth over the noodles and vegetables.
Tongs - Used to handle the hot udon noodles and tofu.
Serving spoons - Needed to garnish the bowls with green onions and shredded nori.

Origin stories

Udon, a type of thick wheat noodle, has a rich, centuries-old history in Japan. It is said that udon was introduced to Japan during the Nara period (710-794 AD) by a Buddhist monk named Kūkai who brought it back from China. The noodles quickly integrated into Japanese cuisines and over time, regional varieties developed, each with its unique broth and toppings. What's fascinating is that during the Edo period (1603-1868), there was even an udon street in Japan where travellers could stop by to enjoy a bowl of this hearty noodle soup. Whether it's served hot in a mild, soy-based broth like in this vegan udon recipe, or served chilled with a dipping sauce, udon's enduring popularity is a testament to its versatility and comforting taste.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.