noodles japanese pan noodles recipe

The Best noodles japanese pan noodles recipe

I’ve been making Japanese pan noodles for years, and it’s still a staple in our household. The dish is simple yet flavorful, with a combination of savory soy sauce, sweet oyster sauce, and a hint of sesame oil that gives it an unmistakable Asian flair.

My kids love helping me prepare the ingredients, from chopping the scallions to cracking eggs into the pan. It’s a recipe that’s easy to customize to suit our tastes, whether we add extra veggies or swap out protein sources.

We make it at least once a week, and it never fails to satisfy our cravings for something comforting and familiar. The best part?

It’s incredibly quick to cook up on a weeknight, so I can get dinner on the table in no time. The aroma alone is enough to transport me back to my favorite ramen shops in Tokyo.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household too.

Japanese Pan Noodles

4.8 from 1178 votes

These chewy, pan-fried noodles are tossed in a savory soy-based sauce with crisp vegetables. They make a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner with a delicious umami flavor.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time30 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 420 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Noodles

12 oz fresh or dried udon noodles
2 tbsp vegetable oil

For the Sauce

3 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp mirin
1 tbsp sake or dry sherry
1 tsp sugar
1 tsp sesame oil

For the Vegetables and Protein

8 oz boneless chicken thigh, thinly sliced (optional)
1 cup sliced shiitake mushrooms
1 cup shredded cabbage
1 carrot, julienned
2 green onions, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp grated ginger

👨‍🍳Directions

1Cook the udon noodles according to package directions until al dente, usually 3 to 4 minutes for fresh noodles or 8 to 10 minutes for dried.
2Drain well and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking, then set aside.
3In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, mirin, sake, sugar, and sesame oil until the sugar dissolves.
4Set the sauce aside.
5Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering.
6If using chicken, add the slices and stir-fry for 3 to 4 minutes until golden brown and cooked through, then remove to a plate.
7Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the skillet.
8Add the mushrooms, cabbage, and carrot, and stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes until the cabbage wilts and the mushrooms soften.
9Add the garlic and ginger and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
10Add the cooked noodles and the reserved sauce to the skillet.
11Toss everything together over medium-high heat for 2 to 3 minutes until the noodles are heated through and the sauce coats them evenly.
12Return the chicken to the pan if using, and toss to combine.
13Divide the noodles among plates and garnish with sliced green onions.
14Serve immediately while hot.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Colander
Large skillet or wok
Small bowl
Cutting board
Chef’s knife

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 420 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 2g❤️Cholesterol: 35mg🧂Sodium: 980mg🌾Total Carbs: 58g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 18g

📝Notes

For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and add extra mushrooms or tofu. You can also substitute soba noodles for a different texture.

Watch Video Of How Japanese Pan Noodles Works

To store leftovers, let the noodles cool completely then transfer them to an airtight container. They will keep in the fridge for up to three days.

When reheating, I like to use a hot pan with a splash of water or soy sauce to bring back the sizzle and prevent them from drying out. You can also microwave them but the texture will be softer.

This recipe is always a good idea for family gatherings because it is easy to double and everyone can customize their bowl with toppings like sesame seeds, green onions, or a drizzle of chili oil. It works well for casual get togethers or even potlucks since it travels nicely.

I often bring it to neighborhood dinners and it is always a hit with both kids and adults.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Japanese Pan Noodles

Q: What is the origin of Japanese pan noodles?

Japanese pan noodles, also known as ‘yudofu,’ have their roots in traditional Japanese cuisine. The dish consists of stir-fried vegetables and sometimes meat or seafood cooked in a savory broth with noodles. It’s believed to have originated in the Edo period (1603-1867), where cooks would stir-fry vegetables and meat in oil before adding noodles.

Q: What are some key ingredients I should have on hand?

For this recipe, you’ll want to have soy sauce, oyster sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free option), sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and green onions on hand. You’ll also need your choice of protein – whether it’s chicken breast or thighs, pork belly slices, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

Q: Can I customize this recipe to suit my dietary needs?

This recipe is easily adaptable for various diets. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, swap out the chicken or pork for more vegetables or tofu. For gluten-free options, use tamari instead of soy sauce.

Q: How do I cook Japanese pan noodles?

Cooking this dish is relatively straightforward: heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat; add aromatics like garlic and ginger; then add protein (if using); followed by your choice of vegetables; finally add cooked noodles and season with soy sauce and sesame oil.

Q: Can I store leftovers?

This recipe makes about four servings – perfect for meal prep! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

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