Yakisoba noodles

yakisoba_noodles

Japanese Yakisoba noodles are a popular street food in Japan that has become a staple in Asian cuisine. Originating from China, Yakisoba has been modified over time to fit Japanese taste profiles, and the results are delicious. These fried soba noodles are often served with a variety of vegetables, meats, and sauces to make for a filling and satisfying meal. Every dish is unique because of the ingredients used, so feel free to mix and match until you find your perfect Yakisoba!

To begin, you will need a few important ingredients for the noodles. The main noodle base is soba, which are thin, wheat-based noodles that are cooked in boiling water before being stir-fried with other ingredients. You can find soba noodles at your local Asian supermarket or online. Additionally, you’ll need some vegetables such as cabbage, carrots, and bean sprouts, as well as protein like pork, chicken, or shrimp. Finally, a variety of sauces, such as Worcestershire sauce, oyster sauce, soy sauce, and ketchup are needed to make the savory sauce that the noodles are coated in.

To make Japanese Yakisoba noodles, start by boiling soba noodles according to the package instructions. While the noodles cook, prepare your vegetables by slicing them thinly and setting them aside. Heat oil in a large pan or wok over high heat and cook your chosen protein until fully cooked. Transfer the protein to a plate and keep it aside. Into the same pan, add your vegetables and stir-fry for several minutes until they are slightly softened. Now add the precooked soba noodles and sauce ingredients, and stir fry everything together, making sure the noodles are piping hot and evenly mixed with the sauce.

One can give the Yakisoba noodles a mouth-watering aroma, by adding Aonori seaweed and katsuobushi (dried and smoked bonito flakes) on top of the noodles. In addition to the toppings, one can introduce a protein to the dish to enhance its taste. Toppings like benishoga (pickled ginger), scallions, and Sichuan pepper can also make the dish more flavourful.

In conclusion, Japanese Yakisoba noodles are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that can be customized to suit your taste. Whether you are using chicken, pork or seafood, the vegetables of your choice, or your preferred sauce, this dish can please nearly any palate. Simply follow the steps outlined above, and you’ll have a mouthwatering dish in no time! Enjoy as an appetizer or main course and serve with some chopsticks to enjoy a truly authentic taste of Japan. Japanese Yakisoba noodles are perfect for any occasion and sure to be a hit with family and friends alike!

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz of yakisoba noodles
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 1 cup of cabbage, shredded
  • 1 cup of carrots, julienned
  • ½ cup of red bell pepper, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons of oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon of sugar
  • 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 green onion, thinly sliced for garnish
  • ½ cup bean sprouts

Instructions:

  1. Boil yakisoba noodles in water for 3-4 minutes, separating the noodles with a fork. Rinse with cold water and drain.

  2. In a wok or large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and onions, stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

  3. Add cabbage, carrots, and red bell pepper to the wok and stir fry for 2 minutes. Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and rice vinegar. Mix well.

  4. Add the cooked yakisoba noodles to the pan, along with salt and pepper to taste. Toss to combine ingredients.

  5. Serve hot and garnish with green onions and bean sprouts.

Enjoy your delicious and authentic Japanese Yakisoba noodles!