Kare Udon, a comforting Japanese noodle dish, combines thick udon noodles with a rich, flavorful curry broth. This dish is beloved for its hearty taste and satisfying texture. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe will guide you through making a delicious bowl of Kare Udon at home.
Ingredients
For the Curry Broth:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons curry powder (Japanese curry powder preferred)
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 large potato, peeled and diced
- 1 carrot, peeled and sliced
- 1 apple, grated (for sweetness)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Udon Noodles:
- 400 grams (14 ounces) fresh or frozen udon noodles
- Water for boiling
Toppings and Garnishes:
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 boiled egg, halved
- Pickled ginger
- Tempura bits or sliced fried tofu
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Curry Broth
Heat the Oil: In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and ginger. Sauté until the onions become translucent and the mixture is fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Add Curry Powder: Stir in the curry powder and flour, cooking for another 2 minutes to allow the spices to bloom.
Incorporate Liquids: Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Add Vegetables: Add the diced potato, sliced carrot, and grated apple to the pot. Reduce the heat to low and let the curry simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Season: Stir in the soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the curry simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
Step 2: Cook the Udon Noodles
Boil Water: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the udon noodles and cook according to the package instructions, usually for about 3-5 minutes until they are tender but still firm.
Drain and Rinse: Drain the noodles in a colander and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Dish
Serve Noodles: Divide the cooked udon noodles into serving bowls.
Add Curry Broth: Pour the hot curry broth over the noodles, ensuring the vegetables and chunks of potato and carrot are distributed evenly.
Garnish: Top each bowl with sliced green onions, a halved boiled egg, a few pieces of pickled ginger, and some tempura bits or sliced fried tofu.
Tips for Perfect Kare Udon
- Use Japanese Curry Powder: For an authentic flavor, use Japanese curry powder, which has a unique blend of spices.
- Balance Flavors: Adjust the sweetness and saltiness by adding more grated apple or soy sauce according to your taste.
- Vegetable Variety: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers to enhance the dish’s flavor and texture.
Variations of Kare Udon
- Beef Kare Udon: Add thinly sliced beef along with the vegetables for a heartier version.
- Chicken Kare Udon: Substitute chicken breast or thighs for a lighter option.
- Spicy Kare Udon: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of chili sauce to the curry broth for a spicy kick.
Nutritional Information
- Calories per Serving: Approximately 450 calories (without additional toppings).
Conclusion
Kare Udon is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. Its rich, savory broth paired with chewy udon noodles and tender vegetables makes it a favorite for many. With this simple recipe, you can enjoy a bowl of authentic Japanese Kare Udon in the comfort of your home. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different vegetables and proteins to make it your own. Happy cooking!
