Stir-Fried Udon Noodles with Shiitake Mushrooms and Sesame Ginger Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Chewy udon noodles tossed with earthy shiitake mushrooms and crisp vegetables in a savory sesame ginger sauce for a quick Asian-inspired stir fry. This japanese-inspired noodles (vegetarian) ready in about 25 minutes blends fresh or frozen udon noodles, vegetable oil, sliced shiitake mushrooms into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 380 calories and feeds 3, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 10 min Cook: 15 min Serves 3 Japanese cuisine 380 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: Cook 8 oz fresh or frozen udon noodles according to package instructions, drain and set aside.
  2. Step 2: Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add 1 cup sliced shiitake mushrooms and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and lightly browned.
  3. Step 3: Add 1 medium julienned carrot, 1 small sliced red bell pepper, and 3 sliced green onions to the pan. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until vegetables are crisp-tender.
  4. Step 4: Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger; cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Step 5: Add the cooked udon noodles to the pan and pour in a sauce made from 3 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp sesame oil, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, and 1 tsp brown sugar. Toss everything together and stir-fry for 2 minutes until noodles are heated through and coated in sauce.
  6. Step 6: Sprinkle 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (if using) over the top before serving.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Stir-Fried Udon Noodles with Shiitake Mushrooms and Sesame Ginger Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 25 minutes (10 min prep + 15 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Stir-Fried Udon Noodles with Shiitake Mushrooms and Sesame Ginger Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Stir-Fried Udon Noodles with Shiitake Mushrooms and Sesame Ginger Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Stir-Fried Udon Noodles with Shiitake Mushrooms and Sesame Ginger Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 3 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 3). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Stir-Fried Udon Noodles with Shiitake Mushrooms and Sesame Ginger Sauce vegetarian?

Yes — this recipe is tagged vegetarian based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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