Easy Recipe for Stir-Fry Beef Udon Noodles

Udon noodles are a type of thick wheat noodle originating from Japan. They are a staple in Japanese cuisine and are known for their chewy and soft texture. Udon noodles are typically made from wheat flour, water, and salt. The dough is kneaded, rolled out, and cut into thick strips.

Udon noodles can vary in thickness, and their width can range from about 1/16 to ¼ of an inch. The thickness of the noodle can affect its texture when cooked; thicker udon noodles tend to be chewier.

These noodles are commonly used in a variety of Japanese dishes, such as udon soup and stir-fries. They are versatile and can be paired with a range of ingredients, from vegetables and tofu to meat and seafood. Udon noodles are often served hot in soups or cold with dipping sauces, making them suitable for various culinary applications.

You can find udon noodles in various places, and availability may depend on your location. Here are some common places where you can typically find udon noodles:

1. Asian Grocery Stores: Udon noodles are commonly available in Asian grocery stores. Look for them in the noodle or Asian food section. These stores often carry a variety of udon noodles, including fresh, frozen, or dried options. I try to use fresh udon noodles as much as possible. The taste of fresh udon noodles is unbeatable. 
2. Local Grocery Store: Many larger supermarkets, especially those with well-stocked international or Asian food aisles, carry udon noodles. Check the ethnic or international foods section in the dry goods or refrigerated area.
3. Online Retailers: You can find udon noodles on various online platforms. Many specialty food websites or large online retailers offer a variety of udon noodles, including fresh and packaged options.
4. Health Food Stores: Some health food stores or specialty food stores may carry udon noodles, especially if they have a diverse selection of international products.
5. Local Asian Grocery Store: If your area has local markets or farmers' markets with an international focus, you might find fresh or handmade udon noodles.
6. Japanese Grocery Stores: My favorite place to go is Mitsuwa. I can always find fresh udon noodles there!

Ingredients

For the Udon noodles:

• Udon noodles
• Beef, thinly sliced
• Broccoli florets
• Bell pepper (any color)
• Carrots
• Garlic

Sauce ingredients:

• Soy sauce
• Oyster sauce
• Sesame oil
• Cooking oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

Please refer to the recipe card for exact measurements.

Instructions

• Cook Udon Noodles:
  • Boil the udon noodles according to the package instructions.
  • Once cooked, drain and set aside.
• Prepare the Beef:
  • In a wok or large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
  • Add thinly sliced beef and cook until browned. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  • Remove the tender beef from the wok and set it aside.
• Stir-Fry Vegetables:
  • In the same wok, add a bit more oil if needed.
  • Sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
  • Add broccoli, bell pepper, and carrots. Stir-fry until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
• Combine Everything:
  • Return the cooked beef to the wok with the vegetables.
  • Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Stir to combine and coat everything evenly.
• Add Udon Noodles:
  • Gently fold the cooked udon noodles, ensuring they are well coated with the sauce and mixed with the other ingredients.
• Serve:
  • Transfer the Stir-Fry Beef Udon Noodles to serving plates.
  • Garnish with chopped green onions and/or sesame seeds for an extra burst of freshness and texture.

Please refer to the recipe card for a more specific instructions on how to make Stir-Fry Beef Udon Noodles.

Substitutions

If you need substitutions for some of the ingredients in the Stir-Fry Beef Udon Noodles recipe, here are some alternatives you can consider:

1. Udon Noodles:
   • Substitutes: Soba noodles, rice noodles, or even spaghetti if udon noodles are unavailable.
2. Beef:
   • Substitutes: Chicken thighs, shrimp, tofu, or thinly sliced pork can be used as alternatives to beef.
3. Broccoli, Bell Pepper, and Carrots:
   • Substitutes: Feel free to use any of your favorite vegetables or whatever is available. Snap peas, mushrooms, bok choy, or zucchini are good choices.
4. Regular Soy Sauce:
   • Substitutes: Tamari, coconut aminos, or liquid aminos for a gluten-free option. You can also use a light teriyaki sauce.
5. Oyster Sauce:
   • Substitutes: Hoisin sauce, regular soy sauce with a touch of sugar, or mushroom sauce can be alternatives.
6. Sesame Oil:
   • Substitutes: Peanut, vegetable, or any other neutral oil can be used.
7. Vegetable Oil:
   • Substitutes: Canola, peanut, or even olive oil can be used for stir-frying.
8. Garlic:
   • Substitutes: Garlic powder or minced ginger can be used if fresh garlic is unavailable.

Storage

Storing Stir-Fry Beef Udon Noodles requires proper handling to maintain their freshness and flavor. Here are some guidelines for storing this dish:

1. Refrigeration:
   • Allow the Stir-Fry Beef Udon Noodles to cool to room temperature before refrigerating.
   • Transfer the leftovers to an airtight container or cover the original pan with plastic wrap.
   • Store in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
2. Freezing:
   • While stir-fry dishes are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers for longer storage.
   • Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag.
     • Label the container with the date.
     • Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
     • When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat thoroughly.
3. Reheating:
   • To reheat refrigerated Stir-Fry Beef Udon Noodles, use a microwave or reheat in a pan on the stovetop.
     • If reheating from frozen, thaw in the refrigerator first and then reheat using the same methods.
     • Ensure the dish reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.

Remember that the quality of stir-fried dishes, especially those with noodles, can change upon reheating. It's always best to enjoy them fresh when possible.