Description
Sizzling chili oil udon noodles bring bold flavors from Japanese cuisine together with spicy, silky textures. Noodle enthusiasts will savor this quick, satisfying dish that delivers comfort and excitement in one delightful bowl.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Main Components:
- 2 packs (7 ounces / 198 grams each) fresh or frozen udon noodles
- 1 fried egg
Sauce and Seasoning Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons chili oil (with crispy bits, if possible)
- 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce (optional, for color and depth)
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon neutral oil (vegetable or canola)
Garnish and Optional Toppings:
- Sliced green onions
- Toasted sesame seeds
- Crushed peanuts or cashews
- Steamed bok choy or spinach
Instructions
- Prepare a generously sized pot with water, bringing it to a rolling boil. Submerge udon noodles, allowing them to cook until perfectly tender and springy, typically requiring 2-3 minutes for fresh varieties. Carefully drain the noodles and briefly rinse under warm water to prevent clumping.
- Craft a vibrant sauce by whisking together aromatic chili oil, umami-rich soy sauces, tangy vinegar, subtle sugar, minced garlic, and nutty sesame oil in a compact mixing bowl. Ensure all components are thoroughly integrated, creating a harmonious flavor profile.
- Select a spacious wok or wide skillet, then warm a neutral cooking oil over medium-high heat. Introduce the cooked udon noodles to the heated surface, gently stirring and tossing for approximately 60 seconds to encourage slight caramelization and prevent sticking.
- Pour the meticulously prepared sauce over the noodles, using rhythmic tossing motions to guarantee each strand becomes completely enrobed in the glossy, spicy mixture. Continue cooking for an additional 30-45 seconds, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify.
Notes
- Noodle Selection Matters: Choose fresh or frozen udon for the best texture, ensuring a springy and chewy bite that perfectly absorbs the spicy sauce.
- Customize Spice Levels: Adjust chili oil quantity based on personal heat tolerance, mixing mild and hot chili oils for a balanced, complex flavor profile.
- Quick Stir-Frying Technique: Cook noodles briefly in the pan to develop a slight crisp exterior while maintaining a soft interior, preventing them from becoming mushy.
- Dietary Adaptations: Swap soy sauce with tamari for gluten-free version, or use low-sodium alternatives to control salt intake without compromising taste.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Japanese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 60 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg