How to Make Curry Udon (Japanese Curry Noodles Recipe)

Curry udon is a delightful fusion of Japanese and Western flavors, originating in Tokyo during the Meiji period. This comforting and hearty dish is especially enjoyed during the colder months, making it perfect for this time of year!

The rich, thick curry sauce warms you up while stimulating your appetite with the savory combination of Japanese dashi broth and spicy curry.

If you want to make curry udon at home, there are two methods: adding curry powder to dashi broth or using instant curry roux, or making your own curry roux.

As the name suggests, the key ingredients for curry udon are curry sauce and udon noodles. Another essential component is dashi soup stock.

I like to make the dashi thicker than usual to enhance its umami flavor, ensuring it stands up to the strong curry taste. The combination of dashi and curry may seem like they come from opposite ends of the flavor spectrum, but when blended, they create a harmonious burst of umami and rich flavors, delivering a deeply savory taste. In addition, the chewy texture of udon makes the dish super satisfying.

Beyond these core ingredients, you can add whatever you like. There are no strict rules for additional ingredients. In this recipe, I chose pork, onion, aburaage (deep-fried tofu pouches), and green onion, but you can also use other meats and vegetables, such as chicken, beef, carrots, and mushrooms.

As you might notice, curry udon sauce is thicker than regular soup. To achieve this texture, adding potato starch is a common step, though it can be a bit tricky. It’s important to find the right consistency without making the sauce too thick or gummy.

Curry udon is best paired with other dishes such as katsu or tempura with vegan and vegetarian options like tofu katsu curry or kakiage (shrimp & vegetable tempura fritters).

A quick reminder: curry udon noodles can occasionally splash, and the sauce might stain your clothes. Since it contains turmeric, which is tough to get out, it’s a good idea to eat carefully. 

Now let's get cooking!