Craving a quick yet delicious meal? Look no further! This Minute Spicy Garlic Shrimp Udon recipe brings bold flavors and satisfying textures to your table in no time. With fresh shrimp, chewy udon noodles, and a spicy kick, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner. Follow along, and you’ll whip up this tasty dish in just a few easy steps. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
List of Main Ingredients
– 200g udon noodles
– 300g shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
– 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
– 1 cup snow peas
The main ingredients create a tasty base for this dish. Udon noodles are thick and chewy. They soak up flavors well. Shrimp adds protein and a sweet taste. Garlic and ginger bring warmth and depth. Bell pepper adds crunch and a pop of color. Snow peas give a fresh, crisp bite. Together, they make a great mix.
Sauces and Seasonings
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon chili paste
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
These sauces and seasonings are key. Soy sauce adds salty umami. Chili paste brings heat that you can adjust. Sesame oil gives a nutty flavor and richness. Together, they create a bold sauce that coats everything.
Garnishes
– 1 green onion, chopped
– 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
– Fresh cilantro
Garnishes make your dish shine. Chopped green onion adds a fresh taste. Sesame seeds bring a nice crunch. Fresh cilantro adds a bright flavor. These toppings enhance both the look and taste of your meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking Udon Noodles
– Boiling Water and Cooking Time: Start by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil. This should take just a few minutes. Once boiling, add 200g of udon noodles. Cook them for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until they are tender.
– Draining and Setting Aside: Carefully drain the noodles in a colander. Rinse them under cold water for a few seconds to stop the cooking. Set the noodles aside for later.
Cooking the Shrimp
– Heating the Skillet: Grab a large skillet or wok. Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over medium heat. Wait until the oil shimmers before adding ingredients.
– Sautéing with Aromatics: Add 4 cloves of minced garlic and 1 tablespoon of grated ginger. Stir for about 30 seconds, until you can smell their fragrant aroma.
Adding Vegetables and Mixing in Sauce
– Stir-Frying Instructions: Now, increase the heat to high. Toss in 300g of peeled and deveined shrimp. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring often. The shrimp should turn pink and opaque. Next, add 1 thinly sliced bell pepper and 1 cup of snow peas. Stir-fry for 2 minutes until they are tender-crisp.
– Combining Sauce and Ingredients: Pour in 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of chili paste. Toss everything together to coat well. Let it cook for another minute to blend the flavors.
Final Steps
– Mixing in Udon Noodles: Add the cooked udon noodles to the skillet. Toss all the ingredients together for about 1 to 2 minutes. Ensure everything is heated through.
– Garnishing and Serving Suggestions: Remove from heat. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions, 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro. Enjoy your Minute Spicy Garlic Shrimp Udon!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips for Perfect Shrimp
To avoid overcooking shrimp, remember a few key points. First, only cook shrimp until they turn pink and opaque. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes on high heat. If they curl tightly, they are done. If you cook them longer, they will become rubbery. Always use a hot skillet to get that nice sear.
Enhancing Flavor
If you want more heat, adjust the chili paste. Start with one tablespoon if you enjoy mild heat. If you want a kick, add extra spoonfuls. Taste as you go. This allows you to control the heat level. You can also mix in some fresh chili for an even bolder flavor.
Reducing Cooking Time
One-pan cooking can save you time and effort. In this dish, you can cook the shrimp, veggies, and noodles all in one pan. Start with the aromatics, then add shrimp, and finally toss in vegetables and noodles. This method keeps the flavors bright and fresh. Clean-up is also a breeze!
Variations
Protein Alternatives
You can switch the shrimp for chicken, tofu, or other seafood. Chicken is a great choice if you want a heartier meal. Simply cut it into small pieces and cook it until it’s fully done. Tofu offers a nice plant-based option. Press it to remove water, then cube it and sauté until golden. Other seafood, like scallops or fish, can add a different flavor profile. Just ensure you adjust the cooking times, as each protein cooks differently.
Vegetable Swaps
Feel free to swap the bell pepper and snow peas for seasonal vegetables. Broccoli, zucchini, or snap peas can add crunch and color. Use whatever you have on hand or what’s fresh at your market. Carrots add sweetness, while baby bok choy can give a nice texture. The idea is to keep your dish vibrant and full of nutrients.
Gluten-Free Options
If you need a gluten-free meal, replace the udon noodles with rice noodles. They cook quickly and work well with the sauce. For sauces, choose gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. You can also use coconut aminos for a different flavor. These simple swaps keep your meal tasty while meeting dietary needs.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Minute Spicy Garlic Shrimp Udon fresh, store it in an airtight container. Let the dish cool down first. This helps prevent moisture buildup. Place the container in the fridge. Enjoy your leftovers within three days for the best taste.
Reheating Instructions
Reheat your udon on the stove for the best texture. Use a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Stir frequently to heat evenly. You can also use a microwave. Place the udon in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between.
Freezing Guidelines
You can freeze Minute Spicy Garlic Shrimp Udon, but shrimp can change texture. To freeze, place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container. Seal it tightly to avoid freezer burn. It’s best to eat frozen udon within one month. To thaw, move the container to the fridge overnight. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave after thawing.
FAQs
How can I make this recipe milder?
To make Minute Spicy Garlic Shrimp Udon milder, simply adjust the chili paste. Start with less than the recipe calls for. You can also use a milder sauce. For example, try adding a bit more soy sauce to balance the heat. Another option is to include more vegetables, like bell peppers or snow peas. They add bulk and flavor without spice.
Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes, you can prepare this dish in advance. Cook the udon noodles and shrimp separately. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge. When ready to eat, simply heat them in a skillet. Add the cooked shrimp and noodles to the sautéed vegetables. This saves time and keeps your meal fresh. Just remember, keep the sauce separate until you are ready to combine everything.
What can I serve with Minute Spicy Garlic Shrimp Udon?
Minute Spicy Garlic Shrimp Udon pairs well with several side dishes. Here are some great options:
– Steamed broccoli: Adds color and crunch.
– Cucumber salad: A refreshing side that cools the heat.
– Spring rolls: Light and crispy, they complement the noodles well.
– Miso soup: A warm and savory soup that balances the meal.
These sides enhance the meal and bring new textures and flavors to your table.
This blog post shared important steps for making delicious Spicy Garlic Shrimp Udon. We explored the key ingredients, from udon noodles to shrimp and vibrant vegetables. I provided tips to cook the shrimp just right and enhance the dish’s flavor.
You can easily adjust this recipe to fit your taste and pantry. Whether you want to switch proteins or save leftovers, you now have the tools. Enjoy creating your own spicy, flavorful udon dish!
