Kimchi Udon Noodle Stir-Fry
Kimchi Udon Noodle Stir-Fry is a quick and flavorful Korean-inspired noodle dish featuring chewy udon noodles tossed with spicy, tangy kimchi and a savory sauce. Garlic, sesame oil, soy sauce, and gochujang create a delicious balance of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors. The noodles are stir-fried with vegetables and finished with fresh spring onions and sesame seeds. This comforting recipe is easy to customize and perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 800 g fresh or frozen udon noodles
- 1½ cups kimchi, roughly chopped
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1 medium carrot, julienned
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 2 spring onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon neutral cooking oil
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
For the Stir-Fry Sauce
- 1½ tablespoons gochujang
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon kimchi juice
- 1 teaspoon sugar or honey
- 1 tablespoon water
Instructions
Prepare the Udon Noodles
- Cook or loosen the udon noodles according to the package instructions. Drain well and set aside. Avoid overcooking the noodles, as they will continue cooking during stir-frying.
Prepare the Sauce
- In a small bowl, combine the gochujang, soy sauce, kimchi juice, sugar or honey, and water. Mix until smooth.
Cook the Aromatics
- Heat the cooking oil in a large wok or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and sliced onion, then stir-fry until fragrant and lightly softened.
Add the Vegetables
- Add the carrots and mushrooms. Cook for several minutes until the vegetables become tender but still retain some texture.
Add the Kimchi
- Add the chopped kimchi to the pan and stir-fry for approximately 2–3 minutes. Allow the kimchi to caramelize slightly for a deeper and richer flavor.
Add the Udon Noodles
- Add the prepared udon noodles to the pan. Gently separate the noodles using tongs or chopsticks.
Add the Sauce
- Pour the prepared stir-fry sauce over the noodles. Toss everything together until the noodles are evenly coated and heated through.
Finish the Dish
- Drizzle with sesame oil and add the chopped spring onions. Stir gently and cook for another minute.
Garnish and Serve
- Transfer the Kimchi Udon Noodle Stir-Fry to serving bowls. Garnish with sesame seeds, extra spring onions, and Korean chili flakes if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen udon noodles for the best chewy texture.
- Do not overcook the udon before stir-frying.
- Kimchi juice adds extra tanginess and flavor to the sauce.
- Adjust the amount of gochujang according to your preferred spice level.
- Use well-fermented kimchi for a deeper and tangier flavor.
- Stir-fry the kimchi briefly before adding the noodles.
- Add tofu or an egg for extra protein.
- Serve the noodles immediately for the best texture.