Creamy Gochujang Udon Noodles

Creamy gochujang udon noodles are a delicious and vibrant dish that combines the chewy texture of udon with a rich, spicy sauce. This recipe is perfect for quick weeknight dinners or a cozy weekend meal. With its bold flavors and creamy consistency, these noodles are sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Made in just 20 minutes, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights.
• Bold Flavors: The combination of gochujang and garlic creates a unique taste that packs a punch.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or paired with your favorite protein for added nutrition.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to add vegetables or proteins like chicken or beef for extra heartiness.
• Comfort Food Appeal: Creamy udon noodles provide a satisfying meal that warms you from the inside out.

Tools and Preparation

To whip up these creamy gochujang udon noodles, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These will help you achieve the perfect texture and flavor in your dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet or frying pan
• Mixing spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Necessary for boiling the udon noodles evenly.
• Skillet or frying pan: Ideal for sautéing garlic and shallots, allowing flavors to meld perfectly.
• Mixing spoon: Helps in thoroughly combining all ingredients without damaging the noodles.

Ingredients

For the Noodles

• 2 pack frozen udon noodles

For the Sauce

• 3 tbsp butter (unsalted)
• 3 clove garlic, minced
• 2 shallots, chopped
• 1 1/2 tbsp gochujang
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup reserved noodle water
• 2 tsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp gochugaru

For Garnish

• 1 green onion, chopped (for garnish)
• grated parmesan cheese
• egg yolk (optional)

How to Make Creamy Gochujang Udon Noodles

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
2. Cook frozen udon noodles according to package instructions.
3. Once cooked, reserve 1/2 cup of noodle water and set it aside.
4. Drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water; set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

1. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and chopped shallots; sauté until fragrant.
3. Stir in gochujang and cook for about 30 seconds until aromatic.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Gradually pour in heavy cream and reserved noodle water while stirring continuously.
2. Add soy sauce and gochugaru; mix well and bring the sauce to a simmer.
3. Let it simmer for a few minutes until thickened.

Step 4: Toss Noodles in Sauce

1. Add cooked udon noodles to the pan with sauce.
2. Toss gently to coat the noodles evenly in creamy gochujang sauce.

Step 5: Serve Your Dish

1. Transfer the noodles to serving bowls.
2. Garnish with grated parmesan cheese, chopped green onion, and an optional egg yolk if desired.
3. Serve hot and enjoy your creamy gochujang udon noodles!

How to Serve Creamy Gochujang Udon Noodles

Creamy gochujang udon noodles are not only delicious on their own but can also be paired with a variety of sides and garnishes to enhance your meal. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Add Fresh Vegetables

• Sautéed Spinach: Quickly cook spinach in garlic oil for a nutritious side.
• Grilled Zucchini: Slice zucchini, grill until tender, and season with salt and pepper.

Garnish for Extra Flavor

• Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for added crunch.
• Chili Flakes: For those who love heat, a dash of chili flakes will spice things up.

Pair with Protein

• Grilled Chicken Breast: Serve sliced grilled chicken alongside the noodles for a protein boost.
• Tofu Stir-Fry: Season and stir-fry tofu cubes for a savory vegetarian option.

How to Perfect Creamy Gochujang Udon Noodles

To ensure your creamy gochujang udon noodles turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and shallots elevate the flavor profile significantly.
• Adjust Sauce Thickness: If the sauce is too thick, add more reserved noodle water until you reach your desired consistency.
• Taste as You Go: Always taste the sauce before adding it to the noodles; adjust seasoning as needed.
• Don’t Overcook Udon: Keep an eye on the cooking time; udon should be chewy and not mushy.
• Garnish Generously: A good garnish adds not only flavor but also visual appeal to your dish.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Gochujang Udon Noodles

Complement your creamy gochujang udon noodles with these delightful side dishes that balance flavors and textures beautifully.

1. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar adds a crisp contrast.
2. Edamame Beans: Steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt provides protein and is easy to prepare.
3. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup offers comforting flavors that pair well with the richness of the noodles.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: These sweet, caramelized bits make a great side and provide balance to spicy dishes.
5. Kimchi: A small serving of kimchi delivers tanginess and crunch, enhancing the overall meal experience.
6. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers color and nutrients while complementing the creamy texture of the noodles.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making creamy gochujang udon noodles can be simple, but mistakes can happen. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Using too much gochujang: Gochujang is spicy. Start with less and add more to taste. This way, you control the heat level.
• Not saving noodle water: The reserved noodle water helps thicken the sauce. Always set aside some before draining the noodles.
• Overcooking the noodles: Udon noodles should be chewy. Follow package instructions closely to avoid a mushy texture.
• Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing garlic and shallots enhances flavor. Don’t rush this step; let them become fragrant for the best taste.
• Ignoring garnish options: Toppings like green onions and cheese add flavor and texture. Don’t skip them; they elevate your dish!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store creamy gochujang udon noodles in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy Gochujang Udon Noodles

• Place portions in freezer-safe containers.
• These noodles can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Creamy Gochujang Udon Noodles

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place noodles in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a pan over medium heat. Add a splash of reserved noodle water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about creamy gochujang udon noodles that you may find helpful.

What is creamy gochujang udon noodles?

Creamy gochujang udon noodles are a fusion dish featuring udon noodles coated in a rich, spicy, and creamy sauce made with gochujang.

Can I customize my creamy gochujang udon noodles?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli or switch proteins like chicken or beef for variety.

How spicy are creamy gochujang udon noodles?

The spice level depends on how much gochujang you use. Start with less if you’re sensitive to spice and adjust according to your taste.

What can I serve with creamy gochujang udon noodles?

These noodles pair well with side dishes like steamed vegetables, salad, or even grilled chicken for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Creamy gochujang udon noodles are a delightful blend of flavors that are sure to impress. They’re quick to prepare and versatile enough to customize based on your preferences. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a fun dish for guests, these noodles offer comfort and satisfaction that you’ll want to experience again and again.

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Creamy Gochujang Udon Noodles

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Creamy Gochujang Udon Noodles, a dish that perfectly marries chewy udon noodles with a rich, spicy gochujang sauce. This recipe is not only quick to prepare, taking just 20 minutes, but it also offers a customizable canvas for your favorite proteins and vegetables. The creamy sauce, infused with garlic and shallots, creates a comforting meal that warms the soul. Ideal for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends, these noodles are sure to become a family favorite.

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Ingredients

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• 2 pack frozen udon noodles
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 clove minced garlic
• 2 shallots, chopped
• 1 1/2 tbsp gochujang
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup reserved noodle water
• 2 tsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp gochugaru
• 1 green onion, chopped (for garnish)
• grated parmesan cheese (optional)

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Instructions

1. Cook the frozen udon noodles according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of noodle water before draining.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the garlic and shallots until fragrant.
3. Stir in gochujang and cook for 30 seconds before adding heavy cream and reserved noodle water gradually.
4. Mix in soy sauce and gochugaru; let simmer until thickened.
5. Toss cooked udon noodles into the sauce until evenly coated. Serve garnished with green onions and optional parmesan cheese.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (250g)
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 670mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 46g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 45mg