Simple Udon Noodle Dish: A Swift, Nutritious Option for Lunch or Dinner

This straightforward udon noodle dish is ideal for a grab-and-go lunch or a hassle-free weeknight dinner, balancing convenience with nutritional value. It can be prepared in just 10–15 minutes, making it a go-to choice for busy schedules while ensuring a balanced meal with both carbohydrates and protein.

Recommended by a Busy Parent

Los Angeles-based web designer Catherine Eng prepares this dish for her son, emphasizing its efficiency: "I’ve refined the process to a science—it only takes 10 or 15 minutes, and I’m confident he gets both carbs and protein."

Ingredients

• Udon noodles: 200g fresh udon noodles (or dry, if preferred; adjust cooking time accordingly)

• Bonito-flavored soy soup base: 1 portion (e.g., Kikkoman Hon Tsuyu; available at local Asian markets or online)

• Optional protein additions: Soft-boiled egg, crumbled firm tofu, or blanched shrimp (to boost protein content)

• Optional vegetables: Blanched spinach, sliced scallions, or seaweed flakes (for color and texture)

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Prepare the Bonito-Flavored Soup Base

If using a pre-made broth like Kikkoman Hon Tsuyu, follow the package instructions to dilute with warm water (typically 1:1 or 1:2 ratio, depending on desired strength). For a quicker shortcut, use the pre-packaged base as-is, ensuring it’s warmed gently in a small pot before serving.

2. Cook the Udon Noodles

Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add the udon noodles and cook according to the package directions (fresh udon usually takes 3–5 minutes; dry udon may require longer). Once al dente, drain thoroughly and set aside.

3. Assemble the Dish

• In a serving bowl, place the cooked udon noodles.

• Pour the warmed bonito-flavored soup base over the noodles, ensuring they’re fully submerged.

• Top with your chosen protein: Gently slice a soft-boiled egg (peeled, cut into wedges) or crumble tofu over the noodles. For a quicker protein boost, add a few blanched shrimp.

• Garnish with fresh vegetables like blanched spinach, sliced scallions, or a sprinkle of seaweed flakes for an extra layer of flavor.

Pro Tips

• Time-saving hack: Pre-cook the soft-boiled egg and blanch vegetables in advance, storing them in the fridge for up to 2 days.

• Customize the broth: For a richer flavor, add a pinch of grated ginger or a splash of mirin to the pre-made base.

• Portability: Pack the noodles and soup base separately in a thermos, then combine just before eating for a mess-free to-go meal.

This dish exemplifies how simple, quick cooking can still yield a satisfying, nutritious meal—perfect for parents, busy professionals, or anyone craving a comforting yet efficient meal.