How to Make Delicious Udon Noodles from Scratch at Home

A Delightful Udon Noodles Recipe

Udon noodles, a staple of Japanese cuisine, are thick, chewy wheat noodles that have gained popularity worldwide. Known for their versatility and comforting texture, udon can be served in various ways in a hot broth, stir-fried, or even chilled with a dipping sauce. In this article, we’ll guide you through a simple yet delicious recipe for making udon noodles from scratch, as well as provide ideas for serving them.

Ingredients

For the Udon Noodles - 2 cups all-purpose flour - 1 cup water - ½ teaspoon salt - Cornstarch or extra flour for dusting

For the Broth (optional) - 4 cups dashi (Japanese broth) - 2 tablespoons soy sauce - 1 tablespoon mirin (sweet rice wine) - 1 teaspoon sugar - Green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1 Prepare the Dough 1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add water, mixing with your hands or a wooden spoon until the dough begins to come together. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable. 2. Transfer the dough onto a clean surface and knead for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too dry, add a little water; if it's too wet, sprinkle in a bit more flour.

Step 2 Rest the Dough 3. Once kneaded, wrap the dough in plastic wrap or cover it with a damp cloth. Let it rest for at least 30 minutes. This resting period is crucial as it allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll out.

Step 3 Roll Out the Dough 4. After the dough has rested, divide it into two equal pieces. Dust your work surface with cornstarch or flour to prevent sticking. Roll out one piece of dough to about ¼ inch thick. Aim for a rectangular shape; it doesn’t have to be perfect. 5. Once rolled out, dust the top with extra flour or cornstarch before folding it in half, then in half again. This folding technique will make it easier to cut uniform noodles.

Step 4 Cut the Noodles 6. Using a sharp knife, cut the folded dough into strips approximately ¼ inch wide. Unfold the strips to reveal your udon noodles. Dust them lightly with more cornstarch or flour to prevent sticking, and set them aside.

Step 5 Cook the Noodles 7. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the udon noodles and cook for about 8-10 minutes or until they are tender but still chewy. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process.

Step 6 Prepare the Broth (Optional) 8. In a separate pot, combine dashi, soy sauce, mirin, and sugar. Bring to a simmer. Taste the broth and adjust seasonings according to your preference.

Step 7 Serve 9. Divide the cooked udon noodles into bowls and ladle the hot broth over them if serving in soup. Garnish with chopped green onions. Alternatively, you can serve the noodles stir-fried with vegetables, or chilled with a dipping sauce for a refreshing summer dish.

Conclusion

Making udon noodles at home is a fun and rewarding experience. The chewy texture and homemade taste elevate any dish you create. Whether you enjoy them in a warm broth or as part of a vibrant stir-fry, udon noodles are sure to please your palate. Experiment with different toppings and seasonings to customize your dish, and savor the delightful taste of homemade udon. Enjoy your culinary adventure!