Craving a flavorful and satisfying meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This spicy curry udon recipe is a fantastic option for a quick weeknight dinner, perfect for busy individuals and families alike. It’s a delicious blend of savory curry, chewy udon noodles, and vibrant vegetables, offering a healthy and exciting culinary experience. This easy recipe is perfect for homemade cooking and showcases the best of simple, yet delicious dishes.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz dried udon noodles
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (13.5 oz) can full-fat coconut milk
- 2 tbsp red curry paste (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Chopped cilantro (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Noodles: Cook udon noodles according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking. Set aside.
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Sauté Aromatics: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
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Add Vegetables: Stir in sliced bell pepper and broccoli florets. Cook for 3-5 minutes, until slightly tender-crisp.
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Build the Curry: Add diced tomatoes (undrained), coconut milk, red curry paste, soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
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Simmer and Thicken: Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. You might want to add more soy sauce for saltiness or brown sugar for sweetness.
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Combine and Serve: Add the cooked udon noodles to the skillet and toss gently to coat them evenly with the curry sauce. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes to heat through.
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Garnish and Enjoy: Serve immediately, garnished with sliced green onions and chopped cilantro. Squeeze fresh lime juice over each serving for extra brightness and acidity.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red curry paste according to your preferred spice level. Start with less and add more gradually if you want it spicier.
- Noodles: For a richer flavor, you can lightly toast the udon noodles in a pan before cooking them.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, mushrooms, or zucchini.
- Protein: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a heartier meal.
Variations:
- Vegetarian/Vegan: This recipe is already vegetarian. To make it vegan, ensure your soy sauce is vegan-friendly.
- Creamy Curry: For an even creamier curry, use full-fat coconut milk and stir in a tablespoon of peanut butter at the end.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 70-80g
- Fat: 20-25g
This spicy curry udon recipe is a perfect example of healthy meals that don't compromise on taste. It’s a quick dinner idea that's both satisfying and delicious. Try it out and experience the joy of homemade cooking! Enjoy!