Creamy Kimchi Udon
Craving a flavour bomb? Kimchi udon is your answer. This Korean dish will rock your taste buds with the chewy udon noodles tangled in a tangy, spicy kimchi sauce. It's simple, quick, and crazy delicious. Top it with a fried egg for extra creaminess and trust me, you don't want to skip the fried egg (unless you're vegan of course!)
This easy but delicious kimchi udon is perfect for busy days or late nights. It's honestly a lifesaver and tastes incredible. So ditch the takeout and whip up this spicy, satisfying masterpiece in no time! I know you'll LOVE it.
P.s. it's also great for a hangover 😉
Hey, I'm Verna!
About this recipe
If you’ve ever had udon noodles, you know they’re a fantastic comfort food. They’re thick, chewy, and perfect for soaking up a variety of sauces and broths.
But have you ever paired them with kimchi? This creamy kimchi udon recipe does just that, bringing together the spicy, tangy kick of kimchi with the richness of a creamy sauce. It’s a fusion dish that’s bound to become your new favourite!
This dish combines the beloved umami flavour of kimchi, the comforting texture of udon, and a luscious creamy sauce to create a satisfying meal that’s both flavourful and easy to prepare.
The spicy kick from the kimchi is mellowed out by the creamy sauce, creating the perfect balance of heat and comfort. If you’re looking for a dish that’s both filling and exciting, creamy kimchi udon is definitely worth a try!
Why You’ll Love Creamy Kimchi Udon
Creamy kimchi udon is not just delicious; it’s also a great way to enjoy the bold flavours of kimchi in a new and comforting way. Here are a few reasons why this dish is worth making:
- Quick and Easy: This recipe can be made in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
- Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more or less kimchi or chili paste. You can also add other ingredients like vegetables or proteins to make it your own.
- Fusion Flavours: This recipe combines the best of two different cuisines - Japanese and Korean - for a unique flavour profile that’s both comforting and exciting.
- Comfort Food at Its Best: The thick, chewy udon noodles paired with the rich, creamy sauce are a match made in heaven. Add the kick of kimchi, and you've got a dish that satisfies all your cravings.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
To make this creamy kimchi udon, you won’t need any fancy ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:
- Udon noodles – The base of the dish, udon noodles are thick and chewy, making them perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce
- Kimchi – A key player in this recipe. It adds a spicy, tangy flavour that elevates the dish
- Gochujang - For added heat and flavour
- Heavy cream – For the creaminess factor, this will create the rich sauce that binds everything together
- Garlic – A bit of garlic brings some aromatic depth to the dish
- Soy sauce – Adds a touch of umami to balance out the flavours
- Sesame oil – For a little extra richness and flavour
- Green onions – To garnish and add a fresh, crunchy element
- Sesame seeds (optional) – For a crunchy topping and added flavour
Ingredients
- 1 pack of fresh udon noodles, usually sold in vacuum packs. If using dry noodles, cook according to package instructions
- 80g kimchi, roughly chopped
- 1 tbsp Korean gochujang paste
- 1 shallot, finely diced
- 1 tsp honey or sugar
- 250 ml water
- 1 tbsp spring onions, chopped
- Choice of protein, i.e. minced pork, or chicken pieces, or sliced tofu
Optional:
- 1 fried egg or egg yolk to serve
Pair it with
Instructions
- Start by soaking the vacuum-packed udon noodles. Place them in a bowl and cover them with hot water. Let them sit for 10 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients. This step helps soften the noodles, as they can be brittle when cold.
- Heat some vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the chopped shallot and minced garlic, and sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the gochujang paste and honey, mixing them well to create a paste. Then, add the chopped kimchi and combine everything thoroughly.
- If you're adding protein, toss it into the pan and cook it until browned. For vegetables, add them at this stage and cook until softened.
- Give the noodles a good stir in their bowl to loosen them up, then add them to the pan with the rest of the ingredients. Mix everything together, adding a splash of water if needed to create a desired sauce consistency.
- Throw in the sliced spring onions for a fresh flavour burst. Plate up your delicious Kimchi Udon creation!
- Fancy a richer experience? Add an egg yolk, or a fried egg, and place it on top of your kimchi udon. Pop open the yolk and mix through before serving to enjoy the added creaminess. It's divine!
Top Tips:
- Adjust the amount of gochujang paste according to your spice preference.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of noodle?
Yes! While udon noodles work wonderfully in this recipe, you can substitute them with other types of noodles, such as ramen or soba. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly.
Is this dish spicy?
Yes, the kimchi adds a nice level of heat to the dish. However, you can adjust the spice level by using milder kimchi or reducing the amount of gochujang. If you prefer a less spicy dish, you can even omit gochujang entirely.
Can I make this dish vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely! To make this dish vegetarian or vegan, simply use a plant-based cream alternative, such as coconut cream or almond milk, and skip the sesame oil if you need it to be oil-free. You can also substitute soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free option.
Can I store leftovers?
Yes, you can store leftover creamy kimchi udon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Reheat in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
What can I serve with this dish?
Creamy kimchi udon is filling on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, you could serve it with a side of sautéed vegetables, a simple salad, or even some crispy tofu or fried chicken for extra protein.
Video demonstration
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