Name: Yaki Udon with Shrimp Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 1 pack (200g) udon noodles, preferably vacuum-packed; 2 tablespoons neutral oil; 8-10 shrimp, approx 100g; 1 garlic clove, minced; 1 yellow onion, sliced; 8 white mushrooms, sliced, approx 120g; 1 carrot, cut matchstick-style; 1 spring onion, green and white parts chopped separately; 1 tablespoon regular soy sauce; Pinch of salt and pepper; 1 tablespoon oyster sauce; 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce (NOT regular soy sauce); 1 teaspoon rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon brown sugar; ⅓ teaspoon freshly crushed black pepper; 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil; Pinch of salt

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 46 reviews

If you have a soft spot for quick, savory stir-fries, then this Yaki Udon with Shrimp Recipe is about to become your new go-to dish. Imagine thick, chewy udon noodles coated in a luscious sauce, tossed with plump shrimp and a colorful medley of fresh veggies that bring crunch and sweetness to every bite. This meal is a perfect harmony of textures and flavors, coming together in less than 20 minutes, making it ideal for both busy weeknights and impressing friends without breaking a sweat. The bold yet balanced sauce ties everything together, giving you that irresistible umami punch that makes Yaki Udon such a beloved comfort food.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a cooking process in four parts: top left has three piles of sliced mushrooms in beige color, thin orange carrot sticks, and a woman's hand chopping green onions on a wooden board with whole onions in the background; top right displays thick white udon noodles in a silver metal strainer; bottom left features a light green and white patterned bowl with dark soy sauce and a spoon dripping sauce back into it; bottom right presents a cooked dish with golden brown shrimp, brown udon noodles, mushrooms, orange carrot sticks, and chopped green onions on top. The background surface is white marble texture photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering these simple but essential ingredients is the first step towards that mouthwatering Yaki Udon with Shrimp Recipe. Each element plays a crucial role: the udon noodles provide a satisfyingly chewy base, shrimp add protein and sweetness, while the fresh vegetables contribute color, texture, and a subtle natural sweetness. The homemade sauce brings depth, freshness, and that signature savory kick.

Udon noodles (1 pack/200g): Choose vacuum-packed for the best texture and easy cooking.
Neutral oil (2 tablespoons): Such as canola or vegetable oil, perfect for high-heat cooking without overpowering flavors.
Shrimp (8-10 pieces, approx 100g): Fresh or thawed, peeled and deveined for quick cooking and a sweet bite.
Garlic (1 clove, minced): Adds a fragrant, aromatic base that elevates the entire dish.
Yellow onion (1, sliced): Brings a mild sweetness and some crunch when stir-fried.
White mushrooms (8, sliced, approx 120g): Earthy and juicy, they add body and umami.
Carrot (1, cut matchstick-style): For a subtle sweetness and vibrant color contrast.
Spring onion (greens and whites separated, chopped): The white part adds sharpness during cooking; the green tops provide fresh garnish.
Regular soy sauce (1 tablespoon): Delivers that classic savory saltiness to the shrimp.
Salt and pepper (pinch each): Essential for seasoning every component perfectly.
Oyster sauce (1 tablespoon): Rich and slightly sweet, it deepens the flavor in the sauce.
Dark soy sauce (1 teaspoon): Not regular soy sauce; adds depth and a beautiful color.
Rice vinegar (1 teaspoon): Provides a bright, tangy balance to the richness.
Brown sugar (1 teaspoon): Just enough sweetness to round out the flavors.
Freshly crushed black pepper (⅓ teaspoon): A subtle spicy warmth that livens up the sauce.
Toasted sesame oil (2 teaspoons): Adds a nutty aroma that finishes the dish perfectly.

How to Make Yaki Udon with Shrimp Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Udon Noodles

Start by boiling your udon noodles according to the package instructions to get that perfect chewy texture. Once cooked, drain them thoroughly and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking. Drizzle a little oil on the noodles and set them aside, ready for the stir-fry.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables

Heat one tablespoon of neutral oil in a hot pan, then toast the minced garlic for about a minute until fragrant – this step really wakes up the dish. Add the sliced mushrooms next, stir-frying on high heat to release their earthy juices. After they start to soften, throw in the yellow onions, white portions of the spring onions, and carrot matchsticks. Stir everything for 2 to 3 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp. Season lightly with salt and pepper, then remove the veggies to a bowl to keep the flavors distinct.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

In the same pan, add the remaining two tablespoons of oil and fry your shrimp until they turn pink and opaque – a sign they’re cooked perfectly. Splash in a tablespoon of soy sauce and a pinch of salt during cooking to enhance their natural sweetness and add complexity. This quick sear seals in the juiciness, creating a luscious bite every time.

Step 4: Crisp Up the Udon Noodles

Now it’s time to bring those noodles back into the pan. Stir-fry the udon on high heat, continuously tossing to get slight crisp edges in the noodles, which adds delightful texture and a hint of smoky goodness to the dish.

Step 5: Add the Sauce and Toss Everything Together

Pour in your lovingly prepared sauce—crafted from oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, black pepper, and toasted sesame oil—and stir well to coat the noodles evenly. Immediately add back the sautéed veggies, folding them gently into the noodles and shrimp. Once combined, turn off the heat and sprinkle the fresh green parts of the spring onions on top for that final pop of color and flavor. Plate it up, and your Yaki Udon with Shrimp Recipe is ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Yaki Udon with Shrimp Recipe

A deep black bowl holds a serving of thick, glossy, dark brown noodles mixed with slices of light brown cooked mushrooms, bright green chopped green onions, and small pieces of cooked orange carrots. The noodles look shiny and coated in sauce, with the mushrooms sitting near the top layer, some slightly browned. The green onions add fresh pops of color scattered on top. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface with a yellow and white checkered cloth underneath. In the blurry background, green onions and sliced mushrooms rest on a wooden board. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or a few red chili flakes can add extra texture and a subtle kick, making each bite even more exciting. You can also add a wedge of lime for a zesty brightness or fresh cilantro leaves for an herbal lift.

Side Dishes

This dish stands well on its own but pairs wonderfully with light sides like a crisp cucumber salad, edamame beans, or a simple miso soup to balance the savory richness of the noodles and shrimp.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Yaki Udon with Shrimp in cute individual bowls with chopsticks to embrace the casual feel of authentic Japanese street food. For a fun twist, add a soft-boiled egg on top or swap the shrimp for chicken or tofu to customize the dish for different tastes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Yaki Udon with Shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This keeps the flavors intact and prevents the noodles from drying out.

Freezing

While generally best fresh, you can freeze this dish if necessary. Place it in a freezer-safe container, separating portions with parchment paper, and freeze for up to one month. Keep in mind the texture of vegetables may soften upon thawing.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to revive the noodles’ tenderness and prevent sticking. Microwaving works too, but be sure to stir halfway through heating to warm evenly.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this Yaki Udon with Shrimp Recipe?

Absolutely! Just thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry to ensure they sear properly without steaming.

What if I can’t find dark soy sauce?

Dark soy sauce is thicker and less salty than regular soy sauce, contributing color and depth. If unavailable, use regular soy sauce with a tiny pinch of molasses or brown sugar to mimic the sweetness and richness.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the shrimp and substitute oyster sauce with a vegetarian alternative or mushroom soy sauce, and add tofu or extra mushrooms for protein.

How do I get the noodles to crisp up like in the recipe?

High heat and a little patience during the stir-fry are key. Keep the noodles moving in the pan but give them moments to settle and brown slightly for that coveted crispy texture.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Definitely. The sauce can be mixed up to a week in advance and stored in the fridge, which makes cooking this recipe even faster when you’re ready.

Final Thoughts

This Yaki Udon with Shrimp Recipe is a delightful way to bring vibrant flavors and textures to your dining table with minimal effort. Every bite feels like a small celebration of Japanese-inspired comfort food, and it’s perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying a satisfying solo meal. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own kitchen favorite!