Niku Udon Recipe – Japanese Special
Niku Udon is a hearty and satisfying Japanese noodle dish featuring thick udon noodles served in a savory broth, topped with tender slices of beef (niku) and accompanied by vegetables like onions and sometimes mushrooms. The dish is comforting and full of rich umami flavor, thanks to the soy sauce-based broth, which is typically flavored with dashi, mirin, and a hint of sweetness. Niku Udon is a popular meal for colder months, offering a perfect balance of warmth, flavor, and texture. The tender beef adds depth to the dish, while the chewy udon noodles soak up the delicious broth, making it a beloved comfort food in Japan.
- Prep Time15 min
- Cook Time30 min
- Perform Time45 min
- Total Time1 hr 30 min
Niku Udon Ingredients:
- 2 servings udon noodles (fresh or frozen)
- 200g (7 oz) thinly sliced beef (ribeye or sirloin)
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 4 cups dashi or broth (chicken or vegetable)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons mirin
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Salt to taste
- Optional: green onions, nori, pickled ginger for garnish
How to make Niku Udon:
Prepare the Broth:In a pot, combine dashi (or broth), soy sauce, mirin, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 5-10 minutes.
Cook the Noodles:Cook the udon noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Beef:Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add sliced beef and onions. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the beef is cooked through and onions are soft. Add a splash of soy sauce and a pinch of sugar. Stir to coat.
Assemble the Dish:Place cooked udon noodles in bowls. Pour the hot broth over the noodles. Top with the beef and onions.
Garnish and Serve:Garnish with green onions, nori, or pickled ginger, if desired. Serve immediately.
Recipe Notes:
Broth Substitute:Use any broth (chicken, vegetable) if you don’t have dashi.
Beef Choices:Ribeye, sirloin, or even ground beef work well.
Noodle Options:Udon is traditional, but you can use soba or ramen noodles if preferred.
Vegetarian Option:Replace beef with tofu or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
Optional Toppings:Soft-boiled egg, sesame seeds, or chili flakes add extra flavor.
