How To Make Yaki Udon (Stir-Fried Udon Noodles Recipe)

Yaki Udon is a Japanese stir-fried noodle dish made with thick udon noodles, thinly sliced pork, and vegetables, all coated in a rich and savory sauce. Classic vegetables include cabbage, carrots, and onions, but modern versions often use whatever vegetables are on hand, making the dish very flexible.

The seasoning for Yaki Udon varies by household and region. Some versions use a thick, deeply flavored sauce, while others rely on a lighter soy sauce base or an umami-rich dashi seasoning. Pork is the most common protein, but shrimp or squid are also popular alternatives and are widely enjoyed in Japan.

Yaki Udon is said to have originated in Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka Prefecture, shortly after World War II. During this time, a nationwide food shortage made it difficult to obtain the noodles needed for Yaki Soba, another well-known stir-fried noodle dish.

As a substitute, cooks used udon noodles instead. The result was well received, and this simple adaptation is believed to be the beginning of Yaki Udon. Over time, people across Japan began stir-frying udon noodles and creating their own variations with different ingredients and seasonings.

Compared to Yaki Soba, which uses thin Chinese-style noodles, Yaki Udon has a heartier texture and a bolder flavor. The thick, chewy noodles hold the sauce well, giving the dish a richer taste. In Japan, Yaki Udon is commonly enjoyed as a main dish at home and is also served in okonomiyaki restaurants alongside okonomiyaki, a savory Japanese pancake.

The dish remains popular today because it is quick to prepare and highly adaptable. Using just one pan, it can be made into a satisfying meal in a short amount of time. It is also a practical way to use leftover vegetables or protein, making it a favorite for busy households.

In this recipe, we introduce a sauce-flavored Yaki Udon that is well-seasoned and full of flavor. Top it with katsuobushi (dried bonito flakes), aonori (green laver), and pickled red ginger to taste, and enjoy a comforting Japanese classic at home.

If you enjoy udon noodle dishes, explore more comforting and creative recipes. Try Niku Udon, a classic beef udon noodle soup, or warm up with Nabeyaki Udon, a hearty hot pot-style udon served straight from the pot. For something modern, Udon Carbonara offers a Japanese-Italian fusion twist, while Curry Udon delivers deep, savory flavor with Japanese curry.

Discover your favorite udon style and enjoy the versatility of these beloved noodles!