Black Pepper Stir-Fried Udon

This Black Pepper Stir-Fried Udon is a bold, flavorful dish packed with chewy udon noodles, crisp vegetables, and tender protein in a savory black pepper sauce. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a perfect weeknight meal that’s easy to make yet packed with restaurant-quality flavor!

Ingredients:

For the Stir-Fry:

• 12 oz fresh or frozen udon noodles (pre-cooked)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 cup chicken, beef, shrimp, or tofu, thinly sliced
• ½ onion, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, julienned
• 1 small carrot, julienned
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 green onions, sliced
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)

For the Black Pepper Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (or hoisin sauce for vegetarian)
• 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce (for rich color)
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or more to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon white pepper (optional, for extra depth)
• ¼ cup water or chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Udon:

• If using frozen udon, blanch in boiling water for 1-2 minutes until loosened. Drain and set aside.
• If using fresh udon, simply rinse under warm water.

2. Make the Black Pepper Sauce:

• In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, sugar, cornstarch, black pepper, white pepper, and water. Set aside.

3. Cook the Protein:

• Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a wok or skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add the sliced chicken, beef, shrimp, or tofu and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

4. Stir-Fry the Vegetables:

• In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil.
• Sauté onion, bell pepper, carrot, and garlic for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.

5. Toss Everything Together:

• Add the cooked udon noodles and return the protein to the pan.
• Pour in the black pepper sauce and toss everything together for 2-3 minutes, ensuring the noodles are well coated and glossy.

6. Serve and Enjoy!

• Garnish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and extra black pepper.
• Serve hot and enjoy this bold, peppery, and satisfying udon dish!

Customization & Tips:

✅ Make it Spicier: Add extra black pepper or chili flakes.
✅ Swap the Protein: Try mushrooms or tempeh for a vegetarian twist.
✅ Add More Umami: Stir in a splash of fish sauce or mushroom soy sauce.

This Black Pepper Stir-Fried Udon is spicy, savory, and packed with bold flavors—perfect for a quick and comforting meal! 🍜🔥