Karē Udon, a comforting Japanese noodle soup, is a delightful blend of savory curry broth and chewy udon noodles. This dish transcends a simple meal; it's a warm hug on a chilly day, a satisfying lunch, or a comforting dinner. The rich, flavorful curry sauce, often boasting a depth achieved through slow simmering, perfectly complements the hearty udon noodles, creating a symphony of textures and tastes. You can easily customize it to your spice preference, adding vegetables like onions, carrots, and potatoes for extra heartiness.
This incredibly versatile recipe allows you to experiment with different curry roux cubes or even make your own from scratch. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a culinary novice, this recipe is surprisingly straightforward. Ready to experience the deliciousness of homemade Karē Udon? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions below.
Tools Needed
- Pan
- Bowls
Ingredients
- Eggplant: 1
- Onion: 1/2
- Minced pork: 180g
- Green onions
- Soy sauce: 1 teaspoon
- Japanese curry cubes (Kare): 2-3
- Udon noodles (frozen, dried, or pre-cooked): 2 portions
- Water: 500ml
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Pepper
- Oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients and Cook Noodles
- Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Rinse to remove excess starch if using dried udon.
- Cut eggplant into small cubes and dice the onion.
Step 2. Sauté Vegetables and Meat, then Simmer Curry
- Add oil to a pan and fry the onion and eggplant until onions are translucent.
- Add minced pork and fry until fully cooked.
- Season with pepper and 1 teaspoon of salt.
- Add 500ml of water, soy sauce (1 teaspoon), and 2-3 curry cubes (adjust to taste).
- Simmer until the flavors combine and the soup reaches your desired thickness.
Step 3. Combine and Serve
- Pour the soup over the cooked udon noodles in bowls.
Step 4. Garnish and Enjoy
- Garnish with chopped green onions and optional toppings like a soft-boiled egg.
Read more: 15-Minute Japanese Curry Udon: Quick, Easy, & Delicious Weeknight Dinner
Tips
- If using frozen or pre-cooked noodles, cooking time will be short and they won't release much starch.
- Two curry cubes make a thinner, milder soup; three cubes create a thicker, creamier, stronger curry flavor.
- This is a great one-pan meal for lazy days, minimizing cleanup.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of noodles instead of udon?
Yes! Ramen, soba, or even spaghetti can be used as substitutes, though the texture will differ slightly from traditional Karē Udon.
2. How can I make this spicier or milder?
For spicier curry, add more curry roux or a pinch of chili flakes. For milder curry, use less roux or add a splash of milk or cream.
Enjoy your delicious, homemade bowl of Karē Udon! This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy weekend treat. From now on, you can easily recreate this comforting Japanese classic whenever you crave it.