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Vegan Udon Noodles from Scratch

This dish features homemade vegan udon noodles crafted through a tactile kneading and rolling process, resulting in chewy, thick noodles with a slightly nutty flavor. The noodles are boiled until tender and served with a simple broth or sauce, topped with fresh green onions and nori for added flavor and texture. The final dish offers a satisfying, hearty bite with a glossy appearance and a fragrant aroma.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Japanese
Calories: 330

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups udon flour preferably Japanese-style for authentic chewiness
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • cup cold water adjust as needed for dough consistency
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil adds toasty flavor to the dough
  • to taste green onions sliced thin, for garnish
  • optional to taste nori strips toasted lightly before serving

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Rolling pin
  • Sharp knife or dough cutter
  • Large pot
  • Damp cloth

Method
 

  1. Mix the flour with salt in a large bowl, creating a well in the center.
  2. Slowly pour in the cold water while gently stirring with your fingers or a fork until the mixture begins to come together.
  3. Knead the dough in the bowl or on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until it feels smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky to the touch.
  4. Wrap the kneaded dough in a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes to relax the gluten, making it easier to roll out.
  5. Divide the rested dough into two equal portions. Lightly flour your work surface and rolling pin.
  6. Roll each piece out into a rectangle about ½ cm thick, turning the dough 90 degrees every few rolls to achieve even thickness and shape.
  7. Fold each sheet into thirds, then slice into ¼ inch wide strips to form the noodles, tossing them lightly in rice flour or cornstarch to prevent sticking.
  8. Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Carefully add the noodles and cook for 3-4 minutes, watching for them to float and become chewy yet tender.
  9. While the noodles cook, prepare your broth or sauce, such as a simple soy and sesame oil mixture, or warm up a flavorful vegetable broth.
  10. Once cooked, drain the noodles and rinse briefly in cold water to stop the cooking process and enhance their chewy texture.
  11. Transfer the noodles to a bowl, pour over your prepared broth or sauce, and toss gently to coat evenly.
  12. Garnish with sliced green onions and toasted nori strips for a burst of flavor and texture, then serve immediately while hot.