19 Traditional Japanese Noodle Recipe You Must Try Them!
Published on: Mar 26, 2024
Traditional Japanese noodles, also known as "soba," are a staple in Japanese cuisine. These thin, buckwheat noodles have a delicate texture and a nutty flavor, making them a popular choice for many dishes. While soba noodles can be found in many Japanese restaurants around the world, nothing beats the authentic taste of a homemade bowl of soba. In this article, we will dive into the history of this traditional Japanese noodle, as well as share a simple and delicious recipe for you to try at home.
If you're a fan of Japanese cuisine and looking to spice up your dinner routine, try making this delicious Japanese noodle soup. Made with a savory broth, chewy noodles, and a variety of toppings, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings for a hearty and comforting meal.
The key to a good Japanese noodle soup is a flavorful broth. You can use a pre-made Japanese noodle soup base such as mentsuyu, which is a combination of soy sauce, mirin, and dashi (Japanese soup stock). Or, you can make your own broth using ingredients like kombu (dried kelp), bonito flakes (dried fish flakes), and soy sauce.
For the noodles, you can use traditional Japanese noodles like udon, soba, or ramen. These can usually be found at Asian markets or in the Asian section of your local grocery store. If you can't find them, you can substitute with thick spaghetti or linguine noodles.
Now, let's talk toppings. The possibilities are endless! Some popular toppings for Japanese noodle soup include sliced pork, tempura shrimp or vegetables, boiled eggs, green onions, and seaweed. Feel free to get creative and add your own spin to the dish.
Udon noodle soup is a classic Japanese dish that is loved for its simple yet satisfying flavors. It typically consists of a clear broth, thick udon noodles, and a few choice toppings. This dish is perfect for those who prefer a lighter and less salty broth compared to ramen.
To make udon noodle soup, start by making the broth. You can use a combination of chicken broth, soy sauce, and mirin for a quick and easy option. Or, you can make your own broth using ingredients like bonito flakes, kombu, and soy sauce. Once the broth is ready, cook the udon noodles according to the package instructions and add them to the broth.
For toppings, you can keep it simple with sliced green onions and a soft-boiled egg. Or, you can add some protein by topping your soup with thinly sliced beef, chicken, or tofu. You can also add some vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or sliced carrots for added nutrition and flavor.
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Mentsuyu (Japanese Noodle Soup Base)
Main Ingredients: Sake, Mirin, Soy Sauce, Kombu, Bonito Flakes
If you're looking for a quick and easy option for making Japanese noodle soup, try using mentsuyu as your base. Mentsuyu is a concentrated sauce made from soy sauce, mirin, and dashi (Japanese soup stock). It can be found in most Asian markets or in the Asian section of your local grocery store.
To use mentsuyu as a base for your soup, simply dilute it with water according to the instructions on the bottle. Then, add in your choice of noodles and toppings. You can also add some extra ingredients like garlic, ginger, or chili flakes to customize the flavor to your liking.
If you're feeling adventurous, you can also use mentsuyu as a marinade for meats or as a dipping sauce for dumplings or tempura. It's a versatile ingredient that can add a delicious umami flavor to many dishes.
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Instant Pot Japanese Vegetable Udon Noodle
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Noodle, Vegetables, Ginger, Garlic Cloves
If you have an Instant Pot, you can make a delicious and healthy Japanese vegetable udon noodle soup in no time. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a quick and easy meal that's also packed with nutrients.
Start by sautéing some garlic and ginger in your Instant Pot. Then, add in your choice of vegetables such as sliced mushrooms, carrots, and bok choy. Next, add in the udon noodles, broth, and seasonings. Close the lid and cook on high pressure for a few minutes. When done, release the pressure and add in some tofu or protein of your choice.
This dish is not only delicious but also customizable to your taste preferences. You can add more or less of your favorite vegetables and adjust the seasonings to your liking. Plus, it's a great way to get your daily serving of veggies in a flavorful and satisfying way.
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Japanese Soba Noodle Soup with Tofu and Greens
Main Ingredients: Noodles, Vegetable Broth, Shiitake Mushroom Caps
Soba noodles, made from buckwheat flour, are a popular choice for Japanese noodle soup. They have a slightly nutty flavor and a firm texture that pairs well with a variety of toppings and broths.
To make a delicious soba noodle soup, start by cooking your soba noodles according to the package instructions. While the noodles are cooking, prepare the broth by simmering a combination of chicken broth, soy sauce, mirin, and dashi (or mentsuyu) in a pot. Add in some vegetables of your choice, such as bok choy or spinach, and tofu for protein.
When the noodles are done, drain them and add them to the broth. Let the noodles soak up the flavors for a few minutes before serving. You can also sprinkle some sliced green onions and sesame seeds on top for added flavor and texture.
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Japanese Cold Noodle (Sugar-Free, Gluten-Free Option)
Main Ingredients: Eggs, Avocado Oil, Large Carrot, Corn Kernels, Noodles
If you're looking for a refreshing and healthy option for Japanese noodle soup, try making a cold noodle dish. This recipe is sugar-free and gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
To make this dish, start by cooking some gluten-free soba noodles according to the package instructions. While the noodles are cooking, prepare the dressing by mixing together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a bit of honey or sweetener of your choice. You can also add some chili paste for a bit of heat.
Once the noodles are done, drain them and rinse them under cold water. Toss the noodles with the dressing and add in your choice of toppings such as thinly sliced cucumbers, carrots, and green onions. This dish is perfect for a hot summer day and can also be served as a side dish for a larger meal.
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Japanese Noodles with Shimeji Mushroom
Main Ingredients: Noodles, Olive Oil, Garlic Cloves, Shimeji Mushrooms
Shimeji mushrooms, also known as beech mushrooms, are a popular ingredient in Japanese cuisine. They have a delicate and slightly nutty flavor that pairs well with a variety of dishes, including noodle soup.
To make Japanese noodles with shimeji mushrooms, start by cooking your choice of noodles according to the package instructions. In a separate pan, sauté some shimeji mushrooms with garlic, ginger, and soy sauce. Once the mushrooms are cooked, add in the cooked noodles and toss everything together. You can also add in some vegetables such as bok choy or sliced bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
This dish is simple yet flavorful and can be made in under 30 minutes. It's also a great way to incorporate more mushrooms into your diet, which are packed with nutrients and have many health benefits.
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5 Minute Spicy Udon Noodle
Main Ingredients: Extra Firm Tofu, Udon Noodles, Chopped Mushrooms, Small
If you're craving a spicy kick to your Japanese noodle soup, try making this 5-minute spicy udon noodle dish. It's a quick and easy option that doesn't skimp on flavor.
To make this dish, start by cooking your udon noodles according to the package instructions. While the noodles are cooking, prepare the spicy broth by mixing together chicken broth, soy sauce, chili paste, and a bit of sugar or honey for balance. Once the noodles are done, drain them and add them to the broth. Let them soak up the flavors for a minute or two before serving.
You can also add in some protein such as thinly sliced beef or chicken, or some vegetables like bok choy or bean sprouts for added texture and nutrition. This dish is perfect for those who love a bit of heat in their meals.
No list of Japanese noodle soup recipes is complete without ramen. This dish has gained popularity all over the world for its rich and flavorful broth, chewy noodles, and a variety of toppings.
To make ramen, you can use a pre-made ramen broth or make your own by simmering chicken broth with soy sauce, mirin, and dashi (or mentsuyu). Cook your choice of ramen noodles according to the package instructions and add them to the broth. Top with sliced green onions, soft-boiled eggs, sliced pork, and any other toppings of your choice.
Ramen can also be customized to your liking by adding in different proteins such as shrimp, tofu, or pork belly. You can also add in vegetables like mushrooms, corn, or bamboo shoots for added nutrition and flavor.
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Japanese Soba Noodles With Peanut Sauce
Main Ingredients: Soba Noodles, Unsalted Roasted Peanuts, Sesame Oil
If you're a fan of peanut sauce, you'll love this Japanese twist on a classic dish. Soba noodles with peanut sauce are not only delicious but also packed with protein and nutrients.
To make this dish, start by cooking your soba noodles according to the package instructions. While the noodles are cooking, prepare the peanut sauce by blending together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a bit of honey or sweetener. You can also add in some garlic and chili paste for added flavor.
Once the noodles are done, drain them and toss them with the peanut sauce. You can also add in some protein such as grilled chicken or tofu, and some vegetables like sliced bell peppers or carrots for added texture and nutrition. This dish can be served warm or cold, making it a great option for any season.
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How to make mentsuyu | Japanese noodle soup base with...
Main Ingredients: Dashi, Light Soy Sauce, Mirin
If you want to make your own Japanese noodle soup base, try this simple recipe for mentsuyu. This sauce is commonly used in Japanese cuisine and can be made in bulk and stored in the fridge for future use.
To make mentsuyu, you will need soy sauce, mirin, and dashi (Japanese soup stock). You can make your own dashi by simmering kombu and bonito flakes in water for about 15 minutes. Once the dashi is done, add in soy sauce and mirin to taste. You can also add in a bit of sugar or honey for balance.
This sauce can be used as a base for various Japanese dishes, such as noodle soup, dipping sauce for dumplings or tempura, or as a marinade for meats. It's a versatile ingredient to have on hand and can add a delicious umami flavor to your meals.
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Teriyaki Noodles
Main Ingredients: Noodles, Sesame Oil, Vegetable Oil, Soy Sauce, Mirin
Teriyaki noodles are a popular dish in Japanese cuisine, loved for their sweet and savory flavors. This dish is made by tossing noodles in a teriyaki sauce and topping them with vegetables and protein of your choice.
To make teriyaki noodles, start by cooking your choice of noodles according to the package instructions. While the noodles are cooking, prepare the teriyaki sauce by mixing together soy sauce, mirin, sake, and sugar in a pan. Once the sauce is heated and thickened, add in the cooked noodles and toss everything together.
You can also add in some protein such as chicken, beef, or tofu, and some vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or carrots for added texture and nutrition. This dish is perfect for those who love a balance of sweet and savory flavors in their meals.
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Japanese Yaki Udon For Beginners
Main Ingredients: Udon Noodles, Sesame Oil, Garlic, Rice Vinegar, Pepper
If you're new to Japanese cuisine and want to try making a simple yet delicious dish, give yaki udon a try. This dish is made by stir-frying udon noodles with a variety of vegetables and protein.
To make yaki udon, start by cooking your udon noodles according to the package instructions. While the noodles are cooking, prepare the stir-fry sauce by mixing together soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a bit of sugar. Once the noodles are done, drain them and heat them in a pan with the sauce.
Next, add in your choice of protein such as chicken, beef, or shrimp, and vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms. Stir-fry everything together until the protein is cooked and the vegetables are tender. You can also add in some extra seasonings like garlic, ginger, or chili paste for added flavor.
Sukiyaki is a popular Japanese hot pot dish that is perfect for a cold winter day. It consists of thinly sliced beef, vegetables, and noodles cooked in a sweet and savory broth.
To make sukiyaki, start by preparing the broth in a pot by combining soy sauce, mirin, sake, sugar, and dashi (or mentsuyu). Once the broth is simmering, add in thinly sliced beef, vegetables like mushrooms and onions, and tofu. Let everything cook for a few minutes until the beef is cooked and the vegetables are tender.
Next, add in some udon noodles and let them cook for a few minutes until they are soft. You can also crack an egg into the pot and cook it in the broth for added richness and flavor. Serve the sukiyaki hot and enjoy the delicious combination of flavors and textures.
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Japanese Ramen with Chicken
Main Ingredients: Chicken Breasts, Salt, Pepper, Unsalted Butter, Sesame
Ramen with chicken is a popular variation of the classic ramen dish. It's a lighter and healthier option compared to the traditional pork-based broth, making it a great choice for those watching their calorie intake.
To make ramen with chicken, start by preparing the broth by simmering chicken broth, soy sauce, mirin, and dashi (or mentsuyu) in a pot. You can also add in some garlic and ginger for added flavor. Cook the ramen noodles according to the package instructions and add them to the broth.
Next, add in some thinly sliced chicken breast and let it cook in the broth until it's fully cooked. You can also add in some vegetables like bok choy or bean sprouts for added nutrition and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy a comforting and delicious bowl of ramen.
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Somen (Japanese Cold Noodles)
Main Ingredients: Noodles, Ice Cubes, Dashi Stock, Soy Sauce, Mirin
Somen is a type of thin Japanese noodle that is typically served cold during the summer months. It's a refreshing and light option for a hot day and can be served as a main dish or as a side dish to a larger meal.
To make somen, start by cooking the noodles according to the package instructions. Once the noodles are done, drain them and rinse them under cold water. You can then serve them with a dipping sauce made from a combination of soy sauce, mirin, and dashi (or mentsuyu). You can also add in some thinly sliced green onions and a bit of wasabi for added flavor.
Somen can also be served with toppings such as thinly sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, or boiled eggs for a more filling and nutritious meal.
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Yakisoba (Japanese Stir-fried Noodles)
Main Ingredients: Worcestershire Sauce, Ketchup, Soy Sauce, Brown Sugar
Yakisoba is a popular Japanese street food that is loved for its flavorful and satisfying combination of stir-fried noodles and vegetables. It's a great option for a quick and easy meal that doesn't skimp on taste.
The History of Soba Noodles
Soba noodles have been a part of Japanese cuisine for centuries, with some evidence dating back to the Edo period (1603-1868). During this time, soba noodles were primarily made from buckwheat flour and were considered a cheap and filling meal for the common people. However, soba noodles gained popularity among the aristocracy in the late 19th century, leading to the development of higher quality soba noodles made with a combination of buckwheat and wheat flour.
The Process of Making Soba Noodles
The traditional method of making soba noodles involves mixing buckwheat flour with water and kneading it into a dough. The dough is then rolled out and cut into thin strips, which are then boiled and served in various dishes. The key to making perfect soba noodles lies in the kneading process, as it helps to develop the gluten in the buckwheat flour, giving the noodles their distinct chewy texture.
Healthy and Nutritious
Not only are soba noodles delicious, but they are also a healthy choice. Buckwheat is a good source of protein, fiber, and essential minerals such as magnesium and manganese. It is also gluten-free, making it a suitable option for those with gluten sensitivities. In Japan, soba noodles are often served cold with a dipping sauce, making it a refreshing and nutritious summer meal.
Recipe for Homemade Soba Noodles
Making soba noodles at home may seem intimidating, but with the right ingredients and technique, it can be a fun and rewarding experience. Here is a simple recipe for you to try:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups buckwheat flour
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup water
- Additional flour for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the buckwheat flour and all-purpose flour.
2. Slowly add water and mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 10-15 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface until it is about 1/8 inch thick.
6. Fold the dough into thirds and slice into thin strips.
7. Unfold the strips and dust with flour to prevent them from sticking.
8. In a pot of boiling water, cook the noodles for 2-3 minutes.
9. Drain the noodles and rinse with cold water.
10. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce or use in a variety of Japanese dishes.
In conclusion, soba noodles are a delicious and nutritious addition to any meal. With their long history and traditional preparation method, they truly represent the essence of Japanese cuisine. So why not try making your own homemade soba noodles and experience the authentic taste of Japan in the comfort of your own home?
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