Rich Savory Ham Udon Noodle Dish

Udon noodles are a beloved staple in Japanese cuisine, known for their thick, chewy texture and ability to absorb rich flavors. In this recipe, we will create a delicious Rich Savory Ham Udon Noodle dish that combines tender ham, aromatic vegetables, and a luscious broth that will warm your heart. Perfect for a cozy dinner or an indulgent lunch, this dish will surely impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

• 300g fresh udon noodles
• 200g cooked ham, sliced into thin strips
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 100g shiitake mushrooms, sliced
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon mirin (sweet rice wine)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped green onions for garnish
• Toasted sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Udon Noodles:
   Begin by cooking the udon noodles according to package instructions. Usually, this involves boiling them in water for about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:
   In a large pot or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and garlic, sautéing until the onions become translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

3. Add the Remaining Vegetables:
   Add the julienned carrot, bell pepper, and shiitake mushrooms to the pot. Sauté for an additional 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.

4. Incorporate the Ham:
   Stir in the sliced ham and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

5. Create the Broth:
   Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, followed by the soy sauce, mirin, and sesame oil. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

6. Combine with Udon Noodles:
   Add the cooked udon noodles into the broth and gently stir to combine everything. Let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat the noodles through.

7. Serve:
   Ladle the Rich Savory Ham Udon Noodle dish into bowls. Garnish with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for an added crunch and flavor.

Cooking Tips

• Ingredient Selection: Opt for high-quality, freshly made udon noodles for the best texture. If they’re unavailable, dried udon noodles will also work; just adjust cooking time accordingly.
• Ham Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of ham, such as smoked or honey-glazed, to add more depth to the flavor profile.
• Vegetable Options: This recipe is versatile; you can swap in other vegetables such as bok choy, snap peas, or bean sprouts based on your preference or availability.
• Make It Spicy: For a kick of heat, consider adding sliced red chili peppers or a splash of chili oil to the broth.

Pairing Suggestions

Enjoy this Rich Savory Ham Udon Noodle dish with a refreshing cucumber salad or a side of pickled vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also serve it alongside a light sake or green tea to enhance the dining experience.

Further Exploration

If you’re inspired by this recipe and want to dive deeper into Japanese cuisine, consider exploring other noodle dishes like Ramen or Soba. For cooking techniques, check out tutorials on how to make homemade udon noodles or discover the art of stir-frying vegetables perfectly.

Conclusion

This Rich Savory Ham Udon Noodle dish is not just a meal; it’s a comforting bowl of happiness that brings warmth and flavor to your table. With its rich broth, tender ham, and chewy noodles, it’s a dish that invites you to gather around and enjoy. Don’t hesitate to share your culinary creations online or with friends, and inspire others to join the wonderful world of cooking!

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