Spicy Shrimp Udon
When it comes to quick, satisfying meals, few dishes can compete with the deliciousness of Spicy Shrimp Udon. This vibrant noodle dish is a perfect balance of spicy, savory, and umami flavors, making it an ideal dinner option for busy weeknights or a delightful treat on the weekends. The combination of fresh shrimp, tender udon noodles, and crisp cabbage creates a dish that’s not only appealing to the eyes but also packed with nutrition. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to make this mouthwatering dish at home!
What Sets This Recipe Apart
What makes this Spicy Shrimp Udon truly special is its harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The fresh udon noodles provide a chewy base that pairs beautifully with the succulent shrimp, while the sautéed cabbage adds a satisfying crunch. The magic happens with the combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a hint of Sriracha, which brings the dish to life with a spicy kick. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder that comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings when time is of the essence.
Your Shopping Guide
Before you embark on your culinary adventure, here’s a detailed shopping list to ensure you have everything you need:
- Fresh Udon Noodles: 2 (200g) packages
- Vegetable Oil: 2 tablespoons, for sautéing
- Sliced Green Cabbage: 2 cups, for crunch and nutrition
- Sugar: 1 teaspoon, to balance flavors
- Soy Sauce: 2 tablespoons, for savory depth
- Garlic Cloves: 4, minced for aromatic flavor
- Fresh Shrimp: 1 pound, medium to large, peeled and deveined
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: 1 teaspoon, for heat
- Sriracha Sauce: 1 teaspoon, to elevate the spice level
- Oyster Sauce: 1 cup, for umami richness
- Green Onions: 3, sliced for garnish
Gear Checklist
To make your cooking experience seamless, gather the following kitchen gear:
- Large Skillet or Wok: Perfect for stir-frying the ingredients.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring and mixing.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient amounts.
- Knife and Cutting Board: For slicing vegetables and shrimp.
- Colander: To drain the udon noodles after cooking.
Make Spicy Shrimp Udon: A Simple Method
Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these steps to create your very own Spicy Shrimp Udon.
Step 1: Prepare the Udon Noodles
Begin by cooking the fresh udon noodles according to the package instructions. Typically, this involves boiling them in water for about 2-3 minutes until they are tender yet chewy. Once cooked, drain the noodles using a colander and set them aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Cabbage
In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced green cabbage and sprinkle with ½ teaspoon of sugar. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized. Remove the cabbage from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil if needed. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Next, add the shrimp, crushed red pepper flakes, and the remaining ½ teaspoon of sugar. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Return the sautéed cabbage to the skillet with the shrimp. Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce, stirring everything together to ensure the flavors meld. Add the cooked udon noodles and mix well, making sure the noodles are coated in the sauce. If you prefer extra heat, drizzle in the Sriracha sauce and toss to combine.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once everything is heated through and well combined, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve your Spicy Shrimp Udon in bowls, garnished with sliced green onions for a fresh pop of flavor. Enjoy your homemade noodle dish!
Low-Carb/Keto Alternatives
For those following a low-carb or keto lifestyle, you can modify this recipe without sacrificing flavor:
- Zucchini Noodles: Swap out udon noodles for spiralized zucchini for a lighter option.
- Shirataki Noodles: These low-calorie noodles are a great substitute for traditional noodles.
- Cauliflower Rice: Serve the shrimp mixture over cauliflower rice for a satisfying meal.
What Not to Do
To ensure your Spicy Shrimp Udon turns out perfectly, here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
- Don’t overcook the shrimp; they should be cooked just until pink and opaque to avoid rubbery texture.
- Avoid using frozen shrimp without thawing them properly, as this can lead to uneven cooking.
- Don’t skip on the garlic; it adds essential flavor to the dish.
- Be cautious with the heat; adjust the amount of crushed red pepper and Sriracha to suit your spice tolerance.
Cooling, Storing & Rewarming
If you find yourself with leftovers (though we doubt there will be any!), here’s how to store and reheat your Spicy Shrimp Udon:
- Cooling: Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before storing.
- Storing: Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Rewarming: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the noodles.
Quick Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to ensure even cooking.
What can I substitute for oyster sauce?
If you don’t have oyster sauce, you can use a combination of soy sauce and a bit of sugar for a similar flavor profile.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots would make excellent additions to enhance the nutrition and color.
Is this dish spicy?
The Spicy Shrimp Udon has a moderate level of heat, but you can adjust the amount of crushed red pepper and Sriracha to your preference.
See You at the Table
As you take your first bite of this Spicy Shrimp Udon, you’ll be transported to a world of flavor that’s both comforting and exciting. The balance of heat, savory sauces, and fresh vegetables makes each mouthful a delightful experience. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy your delicious creation!
With its vibrant flavors and easy preparation, Spicy Shrimp Udon is destined to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. So why wait? Get cooking and treat yourself to a bowl of this delightful dish!
Spicy Shrimp Udon
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by cooking the fresh udon noodles according to the package instructions, typically boiling them in water for about 2-3 minutes until tender yet chewy. Drain using a colander and set aside.
- In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced green cabbage, sprinkle with ½ teaspoon of sugar, and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized. Remove and set aside.
- Add another tablespoon of vegetable oil to the same skillet if needed. Once hot, sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the shrimp, crushed red pepper flakes, and remaining ½ teaspoon of sugar. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
- Return the sautéed cabbage to the skillet with the shrimp. Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce, stirring to combine. Add the cooked udon noodles, mixing well to coat in the sauce. For extra heat, drizzle in the Sriracha sauce and toss to combine.
- Remove from heat and serve the Spicy Shrimp Udon in bowls, garnished with sliced green onions.
Notes
- For a lower-carb option, substitute udon noodles with zucchini or shirataki noodles.
- Ensure shrimp are thawed completely before cooking for even results.
- Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of crushed red pepper and Sriracha to suit your taste.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
