Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Kimchi Udon with Scallions Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4 from 88 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Korean-Japanese Fusion
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Kimchi Udon with Scallions is a quick, savory, and umami-packed noodle dish featuring thick, chewy udon noodles tossed in a spicy kimchi sauce with scallions, garlic, and a touch of sesame. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a comforting lunch, this flavorful Korean-Japanese fusion recipe comes together in under 20 minutes.


Ingredients

Noodles

  • 2 servings fresh or frozen udon noodles

Kimchi Sauce

  • 1 cup kimchi (chopped, with juice)
  • 2 teaspoons sesame oil
  • 2 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon gochujang (Korean chili paste, optional for extra heat)
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Garnishes and Additions

  • 2 scallions (thinly sliced)
  • Toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
  • Fried egg (optional, for serving)


Instructions

  1. Cook the noodles: Cook the udon noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and rinse them under cold water to stop cooking and remove excess starch. Set aside.
  2. Sauté garlic: In a skillet or wok over medium heat, heat the vegetable oil and sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
  3. Cook kimchi: Add the chopped kimchi to the skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the kimchi is fragrant and slightly softened.
  4. Add sauces and seasonings: Stir in the soy sauce, sesame oil, gochujang (if using), and sugar into the kimchi mixture. Mix well to combine all flavors.
  5. Toss noodles: Add the drained noodles to the skillet and toss everything together until the noodles are well coated with the kimchi sauce and heated through, about 2 to 3 minutes.
  6. Finish with scallions: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the sliced scallions to add freshness and a pop of color.
  7. Garnish and serve: Plate the kimchi udon, garnish with toasted sesame seeds, and serve hot. Top with a fried egg if desired for extra richness and protein.

Notes

  • Use well-fermented kimchi for the deepest, most complex flavor.
  • This dish is easily adapted to be vegan—simply omit the fried egg.
  • Feel free to add mushrooms, tofu, or shredded chicken for a heartier meal.