Ready in: 30 minutes · Serves: 4 · Technique: Stir-Frying · Storage: Up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Quick Answer
A delicious and quick stir-fry of pork and udon noodles perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings.Let's dive into a dish that's not just hearty and satisfying but also quick to whip up-perfect for those busy weeknights or festive gatherings that are fast approaching this holiday season. With Thanksgiving and Christmas just around the corner, I find myself craving comfort food that doesn't require hours in the kitchen, and I fell in love with these Stir-Fry Pork Udon Noodles. They offer a wonderful array of flavors and textures that capture the essence of cozy evenings in New York City, where the air starts to chill and the festive spirit begins to sparkle.
A Cozy Holiday Treat
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Fast and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich in flavor and texture, offering a delightful dining experience.
- Versatile recipe that allows for customization with your favorite vegetables.
- A comforting dish that captures the essence of cozy evenings.
- Minimal cleanup with a one-pan cooking method!
Ingredients
To create this delicious dish, you'll need the following:
- 300g pork tenderloin, thinly sliced
- 200g udon noodles (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil, divided
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small piece of ginger, grated
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 3 green onions, chopped
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
How to Make Stir-Fry Pork Udon Noodles (Step-by-Step)
Let's dive into the process of making this quick and satisfying dish that brings together a wonderful array of flavors and textures.
Step 1: Prepare the Noodles
If you're using frozen udon noodles, cook them according to the package instructions. I usually boil them for about 2-3 minutes in salted water until tender. Once done, drain them and toss them with a little sesame oil to prevent sticking. The moment you remove them from the pot, inhale their fragrant steam-it's so inviting!
Step 2: Marinate the Pork
In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and half the sesame oil. Add the sliced pork to the bowl and let it marinate for about 15 minutes. As the pork absorbs those rich flavors, the anticipation builds!
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat a large pan or a wok over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of sesame oil and then toss in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds-this step fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that'll make your mouth water.
Step 4: Cook the Pork
Add the marinated pork to the pan and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes, or until it's fully cooked. You'll want to reach that golden-brown color while ensuring the pork remains tender and juicy. When done, remove and set aside.
Step 5: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
In the same pan, add a bit more sesame oil if needed, and toss in the sliced bell peppers, broccoli florets, and julienned carrots. Stir-fry these for about 5 minutes until they're vibrant and tender-crisp. I love when the bright colors of the veggies fill my pan-it's a feast for the eyes!
Step 6: Combine Everything
Add the cooked udon noodles and the previously cooked pork back to the pan. Toss everything together well, allowing all those flavors to meld beautifully for another 2-3 minutes. The noodles should be heated through, and the whole dish will look absolutely inviting.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finally, sprinkle chopped green onions and sesame seeds over the top. Serve warm and enjoy the harmonious blend of textures and flavors-this dish stands out in the best way!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Pork: Pork tenderloin can become tough if cooked too long. Keep an eye on the timing-just until it's cooked through.
- Not Separating the Noodles: If left sticking together, the udon can clump. Toss them with sesame oil immediately after cooking.
- Skipping Fresh Vegetables: Don't skip on the fresh veggies. They not only provide flavor but also color and nutrition. Use whatever fresh produce you have on hand.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Experiment with different vegetables like snap peas or bok choy for added crunch and nutrition. The beauty of stir-fries is their flexibility!
- Consider adding a splash of chili sauce or flakes if you're looking to spice things up a bit.
- For a vegetarian alternative, swap the pork with tofu and use vegetable broth instead of oyster sauce for a rich, savory taste.
Variations
- Use chicken or beef instead of pork for a different protein option.
- Incorporate more colorful vegetables such as zucchini or snow peas.
- Substitute udon noodles with soba or rice noodles for a gluten-free option.
- Add nuts like cashews or peanuts for extra crunch and flavor.
How to Serve
- Serve warm topped with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
- Pair with a side of pickled vegetables for a contrasting flavor.
- Offer chili sauce on the side for those who enjoy a spicy kick.
- Garnish with fresh herbs such as cilantro or basil for a fresh touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the pork marinade and chop the vegetables in advance for quicker cooking.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a hot pan with a splash of water for optimal texture.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture of the vegetables and noodles may change upon thawing.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
This recipe reinforced the value of simple meals that can be prepared quickly while still being packed with flavor. A well-balanced dish, like these Stir-Fry Pork Udon Noodles, can elevate a weeknight dinner into something special, making it perfect for holiday gatherings.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 4 servings · Serving Size: 1 bowl
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~450 calories · 25g protein · 50g carbs · 20g fat
Recipe by:
Quick and Flavorful Stir-Fry Pork Udon
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the udon noodles according to package instructions and toss with a little sesame oil.
- In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, and half of the sesame oil. Marinate the sliced pork for 15 minutes.
- Heat a large pan over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of sesame oil, then sauté minced garlic and grated ginger until fragrant.
- Add the marinated pork and stir-fry until fully cooked, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add sliced bell peppers, broccoli florets, and julienned carrots to the pan and stir-fry until tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
- Toss in the cooked udon noodles and combine everything, allowing to heat through for 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve warm.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken instead of pork for this stir-fry?
Yes, chicken is a great alternative! Just make sure to adjust the cooking time to ensure it's fully cooked through.
2. What type of udon noodles should I use?
You can use either fresh or frozen udon noodles. Both work well; just follow the package instructions for cooking times.
3. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the vegetables and marinate the pork in advance. Store them separately until you're ready to cook.
4. Are there any vegetables I should avoid in this recipe?
There aren't any strict rules! However, avoid very watery vegetables like cucumbers, as they may not hold up well during stir-frying.
5. How do I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the pork with tofu and use vegetable broth instead of oyster sauce. You can also add more veggies for extra flavor and texture.
