15-Minute Curry Udon: Comforting Japanese Delight

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Curry Udon has become one of my favorite comforting dishes, especially on busy weeknights. This Easy 15 Minute Curry Udon recipe serves up a comforting bowl of thick, chewy udon noodles in a rich and savory Japanese curry broth. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, this dish is perfect for a quick family dinner. Let’s dive into the delicious world of homemade curry udon!

Why You’ll Love This Curry Udon

This dish is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. Here are a few reasons why you’ll love this Japanese curry udon:

Rich and flavorful curry broth that warms your soul.
Thick udon noodles that perfectly absorb the sauce.
Customizable with your favorite proteins and vegetables, including a vegetarian curry udon recipe.
Ready in just 15 minutes, making it an ideal easy curry udon recipe.
Perfect for meal prep or weekday dinners.
Authentic taste of a traditional Japanese curry udon.

Ingredients for Curry Udon

Gather these items:

400 g udon noodles (homemade or store bought)
3 cups dashi stock (750 ml / 25.36 fl oz, can substitute chicken stock)
200 g beef mince
1 Japanese curry roux (approx 100 g / 3.5 oz, homemade or store bought)
1 onion, chopped
1-2 spring onions, chopped
1 tbsp vegetable oil (for cooking)

How to Make Curry Udon Step-by-Step

Step 1: Place a medium saucepan over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil. Toss in the chopped onion and fry for 2-3 minutes until translucent.
Step 2: Add the beef mince to the pan and continue frying for 3-5 minutes until browned and fully cooked through.
Step 3: Pour in the dashi stock and bring it to a boil. Add the udon noodles and simmer for 2 minutes to soften (if using frozen noodles, cook for an additional couple of minutes). Gently loosen the noodles with chopsticks as they cook.
Step 4: Break up the curry roux into smaller pieces and add them gradually to the boiling broth. Stir gently to dissolve the roux and thicken the curry to your desired consistency.
Step 5: Once thickened and heated through, ladle the curry udon into bowls and garnish with chopped spring onions. Serve immediately while hot.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Curry Udon

Keep these in mind:

Adjust the amount of curry roux based on your taste preference.
This dish is best served hot for maximum flavor.
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
For a spicy curry udon, add chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Best Ways to Serve Curry Udon

Here are some ideas for serving:

Top with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added flavor.
Pair with a side of Japanese pickles to balance the curry flavors.
For a vegetarian twist, try adding a mix of seasonal vegetables for a curry udon with vegetables.

How to Store and Reheat Curry Udon

To store, let the curry udon cool completely and transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or stock to revive the broth’s consistency. This makes it an excellent choice for an instant curry udon meal for busy days.

Frequently Asked Questions About Curry Udon

What’s the secret to perfect Curry Udon?

The secret lies in the quality of the ingredients. Using fresh udon noodles and a good quality curry roux will enhance the flavors tremendously. Experimenting with different broths like dashi can also elevate your dish.

Can I make Curry Udon ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the broth and noodles ahead of time. However, it’s best to combine them right before serving to maintain the noodles’ texture.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Curry Udon?

One common mistake is overcooking the udon noodles. Follow the cooking time closely and ensure to check for doneness to keep them chewy and firm.

Variations of Curry Udon You Can Try

Here are some variations to spice up your curry udon experience:

Spicy curry udon: Add chili oil or fresh chilies for heat.
Vegetarian curry udon recipe: Replace beef with tofu or a variety of vegetables.
Curry udon with seafood: Incorporate shrimp or fish for a different flavor profile.
Homemade curry udon variations: Experiment with different roux flavors or add coconut milk for a creamy twist.

15-Minute Curry Udon: Comforting Japanese Delight - Curry Udon - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta or Creamy Crockpot Beef Tips. If you’re looking for a comforting dessert, try Irresistible Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake.