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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Finish with scallions: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the sliced scallions to add freshness and a pop of color.
- 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.