Do you know Udon noodles?

What are Udon Noodles?

The Udon noodles are a Japanese specialty found in many Asian restaurants and grocery stores. They are appreciated for their soft texture and their ability to absorb the flavors of sauces and broths. In this article, discover the secrets of this delicious preparation made from wheat flour and explore the best Parisian addresses to taste them. Finally, learn to make these essential noodles of Japanese cuisine yourself.

The history and origins of Udon noodles

Udon noodles originate from Japan, where they are a pillar of traditional cuisine. They are made from wheat flour, water, and salt, and are characterized by their thickness and soft texture. Legend has it that they were introduced to Japan by a Buddhist monk in the 9th century, after a trip to China.

However, the current form of Udon dates back to the 17th century when they became a staple food for samurais and upper classes. Today, they are consumed throughout the country, with each region having developed its own variants and recipes. Udon is often served in soup or stir-fried, accompanied by vegetables, proteins, and various soy sauce, miso, or dashi broth-based sauces.

The essential ingredients to prepare Udon noodles

To make homemade Udon noodles , you will need the following ingredients :

Wheat flour : Choose a type 65 or 80 wheat flour to achieve a soft and elastic texture. It is also possible to use whole wheat flour for a more rustic version.
Water : Water is essential to bind the flour and create the dough. The ratio of water to flour usually varies between 30 and 45%.
Salt : Salt strengthens the noodle texture and gives them a pleasant flavor. Use fine salt or sea salt for a more authentic touch.

Once these ingredients are gathered, you will need to knead the dough, let it rest, then roll it out and cut it into thin strips. It is essential to work the dough carefully to give it the desired texture and thickness. Then, the noodles are cooked in boiling salted water for a few minutes, before being drained and used in the recipes of your choice.

Different recipes and preparations based on Udon noodles

The Udon noodles lend themselves to numerous recipes and preparations, both traditional and modern. Here are some ideas for tasting them:

Broth Udon : Udon is often served in soup, with a light broth based on dashi, soy sauce, and mirin. Vegetables, fish, meat, or tempuras can be added.
Yaki Udon : The noodles are stir-fried with vegetables, proteins, and a sauce based on soy, sake, and sugar. This dish is quick and easy to make and can be adapted according to tastes and available ingredients.
Curry Udon : The Udon are coated in a thick sauce with Japanese curry, accompanied by vegetables and meat. This comforting and fragrant dish is ideal for cold days.
Zaru Udon : The noodles are served cold, accompanied by a tsuyu sauce based on dashi, soy, and mirin. This refreshing dish is savored in the summer and can be garnished with vegetables, tofu, or tempuras.

The best addresses to taste Udon noodles in Paris

Paris is full of Japanese restaurants that offer quality Udon noodles . Here are some must-visit addresses for enthusiasts of this specialty:

Kunitoraya : This historic address located in the Opera district is renowned for its handmade Udon. Their texture and flavor are incomparable, and the recipes offered are varied and tasty.
Sanukiya : Located steps away from Les Halles, this restaurant offers homemade Udon, served in soup or stir-fried. The broth is delicate, and the garnishes are generous. Do not miss the crispy tempuras as a side dish.
Udon Bistro Kunitoraya : This address, also located in the Opera district, is the little sister of Kunitoraya. It offers Udon in a more modern and convivial setting, with a varied menu and creative dishes.
Izakaya Issé : This traditional Japanese restaurant located near Madeleine offers homemade Udon, served in soup, or accompanied by tempuras. The quality of the ingredients and the delicacy of the preparations make it a must-visit address.

Udon noodle-based products available in grocery stores

If you want to cook Udon noodles at home, you will find many products in Asian grocery stores or online. Here are some options to make your job easier:

Dried Udon noodles : These noodles are dehydrated and packaged in individual portions. They are easy to cook and retain a pleasant texture once rehydrated. Choose quality noodles for optimal results.
Fresh Udon noodles : Fresh noodles are more soft and elastic than dried noodles. They are generally sold in refrigerated packets and can be kept for a few days in the refrigerator.
Broths and sauces for Udon : Ready-to-use broths and sauces are convenient and allow you to quickly make tasty dishes. You will find dashi broths, soy sauces, miso, and various sauces based on vegetables or proteins.

Thus, Udon noodles are a Japanese specialty that you can enjoy both in a restaurant and at home. Their soft texture and versatility make them a delicious and comforting dish, to be declined according to your desires and tastes.

Differences between Udon noodles and other Asian noodles

Udon noodles are a type of Japanese noodles that stand out from other Asian varieties by their thickness and soft texture. Here are comparisons between Udon and other popular types of noodles:

Udon vs Soba : Soba are thin, brown Japanese noodles, made from buckwheat flour and wheat flour. They have a distinctive flavor and a firmer texture than Udon. Soba is also consumed hot or cold, often served with a soy sauce and similar garnishes to Udon.
Udon vs Ramen : Ramen are Chinese noodles made from wheat flour and water, often added an alkaline agent to give them a firm and elastic texture. They are generally served in a rich and flavorful soup based on meat, vegetables, and spices. Ramen are thinner and less soft than Udon.
Udon vs Rice noodles : Rice noodles originate from Southeast Asia and are made from rice flour and water. They are usually thinner and more fragile than Udon, and have a slightly sticky texture. Rice noodles are used in many Asian dishes, such as pad thai, noodle soups, and salads.
Udon vs Chinese noodles : Chinese noodles are a general term that encompasses many varieties of noodles made from wheat or rice flour. They vary in thickness, shape, and texture but are generally less thick and less soft than Udon. Chinese noodles are used in numerous stir-fried dishes, soups, and dumplings.

The benefits of Udon noodles for health

The Udon noodles have several benefits for health, thanks to the wheat flour used in their manufacture and their low fat content. Here are some benefits of eating Udon:

Rich in nutrients : Udon provides a good dose of complex carbohydrates, proteins, and dietary fiber, as well as essential vitamins and minerals, such as iron, calcium, and B vitamins.
Good for digestion : The fibers contained in Udon help regulate intestinal transit and prevent constipation.
Low in calories : Udon is relatively low in calories, especially when served in a light broth without rich fat garnishes. They can constitute a satisfying and low calorie meal for those seeking to control their weight.
Easy to digest : The soft texture of Udon makes them easy to chew and digest, which can be beneficial for people with digestive problems.

It is important to note that the health benefits of Udon noodles depend on how they are prepared and the garnishes and sauces that accompany them. To fully enjoy these benefits, opt for Udon-based dishes rich in vegetables and low in fat.

Conclusion

The Udon noodles are a delicious Japanese specialty, appreciated for their soft texture and their capacity to absorb the flavors of sauces and broths. They stand out from other Asian noodles and offer health benefits thanks to their composition. With a multitude of recipes and preparations, Udon offers a variety of tasty and comforting dishes to enjoy in restaurants or at home. Do not hesitate to explore the different varieties of Udon noodles and integrate them into your cuisine for a unique and authentic taste experience.

FAQ

What is the best brand of Udon noodles?

Consumers consider the Maruchan brand to be the best for Udon noodles because of its rich flavor and unrivaled texture.

Where can I find fresh Udon noodles?

You can find fresh Udon noodles in Asian grocery stores or in supermarkets that offer a variety of Asian products.

What type of sauce goes best with Udon noodles?

The type of sauce that pairs best with Udon noodles is a mix of soy sauce, mirin, and sake, but you can also use bokkeumyun, gochujang, or tsuyu.

Are Udon noodles healthy?

Udon noodles are relatively healthy as they are made from natural ingredients such as wheat and vegetable oil. They also contain a moderate amount of sodium.

Can Udon noodles be reheated?

Yes, Udon noodles can be reheated in a few minutes in a pan or in the microwave. However, be sure to cover them well so they do not dry out.