How to Make Vegetable Tempura Udon: A Flavorful Journey to Japan

Vegetable tempura udon – the name itself sounds like a symphony of textures and flavors, doesn’t it? This Japanese comfort food is a delightful combination of chewy udon noodles bathed in a savory broth, topped with crispy, light-as-air vegetable tempura. Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just starting to explore the world of plant-based cuisine, this recipe is an absolute must-try.

I still remember the first time I tasted vegetable tempura udon. It was at a small family-run restaurant tucked away in a quiet corner of Kyoto. The broth, simmered to perfection, had a depth of flavor that was both comforting and intriguing. The tempura, with its delicate batter, was a revelation – crispy on the outside, yet tender and flavorful within. It was a culinary experience that stayed with me, inspiring me to recreate the magic of this dish in my own kitchen.

And the best part? This dish is surprisingly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can transport yourself to the heart of Japan and enjoy a bowl of authentic, homemade vegetable tempura udon. So, put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and let’s embark on this flavorful journey together!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the udon noodles and broth:

• 2 servings dried udon noodles
• 4 cups (950 ml) vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon mirin (sweet rice wine)
• 1 teaspoon dashi granules (optional, for a richer flavor)

For the vegetable tempura:

• 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (62.5 g) cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (240 ml) ice-cold water
• 1 cup vegetable oil for frying, or as needed
• 1/2 cup broccoli florets
• 1/2 cup sliced carrots
• 1/2 cup sliced shiitake mushrooms
• 1/2 cup green beans

For garnish:

• 1 scallion, thinly sliced
• 1 sheet nori seaweed, cut into thin strips (optional)

Tools of the Trade

• Large pot
• Medium bowl
• Whisk
• Chopsticks or tongs
• Large skillet or wok
• Slotted spoon
• Paper towels
• Serving bowls

Let’s Get Cooking!

Making the Perfect Udon Noodles

1. Cook the udon noodles according to package directions.
2. Drain the noodles and set them aside.

Creating the Flavorful Broth

1. In a large pot, combine the vegetable broth, soy sauce, mirin, and dashi granules (if using).
2. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.

Mastering the Art of Tempura

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Gradually add the ice-cold water, whisking constantly until a smooth batter forms. Don’t overmix!
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
4. Dip each vegetable piece into the batter, allowing any excess to drip off.
5. Carefully place the battered vegetables in the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding.
6. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Remove the tempura from the oil using a slotted spoon and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain.

Assembling Your Vegetable Tempura Udon Masterpiece

1. Divide the cooked udon noodles among serving bowls.
2. Ladle the hot broth over the noodles.
3. Arrange the crispy vegetable tempura on top of the noodles.
4. Garnish with sliced scallions and nori strips (if using).

Tips & Tricks for Tempura Triumph

• Ice-Cold is Key: Using ice-cold water for the tempura batter helps create a lighter, crispier texture.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Frying the tempura in batches ensures that the oil temperature remains consistent, resulting in evenly cooked pieces.
• Embrace Your Creativity: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables for your tempura, such as sweet potato, zucchini, or eggplant.

Vegetable Tempura Udon

Elevate Your Udon Experience

Looking for an extra touch of flavor? Try serving your vegetable tempura udon with a side of Kizami Wasabi, a delicious Japanese condiment.

Udon Noodle Soup

Conclusion

Congratulations on creating a truly authentic Japanese dish! Vegetable tempura udon is a testament to the beauty of simplicity and fresh ingredients. This recipe is a wonderful way to explore new flavors, impress your loved ones, and treat yourself to a comforting and delicious meal.

Don’t forget to share your culinary masterpiece with us! Leave a comment below and tell us about your experience making vegetable tempura udon. Happy cooking!