Creamy Gochujang Udon Noodles

Creamy Gochujang Udon Noodles are a delightful dish that brings together bold flavors and a creamy texture in just 20 minutes. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknight dinners or a cozy gathering with friends. With its unique blend of spicy gochujang and rich cream, it’s sure to impress anyone at the table. You can serve it as a main course or pair it with your favorite protein for an even heartier meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 20 minutes, these creamy gochujang udon noodles fit perfectly into your busy schedule.
• Flavors: The combination of garlicky butter and spicy gochujang creates a deliciously addictive sauce.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as is or customize with your favorite veggies or proteins for added nutrition.
• Comforting Meal: The creamy texture of the sauce makes this dish incredibly comforting, perfect for any occasion.
• Easy Clean-Up: With minimal pots and pans required, this recipe makes for easy cooking and clean-up.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your creamy gochujang udon noodles, gather these essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet or frying pan
• Measuring spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the udon noodles quickly and efficiently.
• Skillet or frying pan: Used to sauté ingredients and create the creamy sauce that coats the noodles.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make creamy gochujang udon noodles:

For the Noodles

• 2 pack frozen udon noodles

For the Sauce

• 3 tbsp butter (unsalted)
• 3 clove garlic, minced
• 2 shallots, chopped
• 1 1/2 tbsp gochujang
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup reserved noodle water
• 2 tsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp gochugaru

For Garnish

• 1 green onion, chopped (for garnish)
• grated parmesan cheese
• egg yolk (optional)

How to Make Creamy Gochujang Udon Noodles

Step 1: Cook Udon Noodles

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
2. Cook frozen udon noodles according to package instructions.
3. Once cooked, reserve 1/2 cup of noodle water and set it aside.
4. Drain the noodles and rinse under cold water before setting them aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

1. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and chopped shallots; sauté until fragrant.
3. Stir in gochujang and cook for about 30 seconds until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Slowly pour in heavy cream along with reserved noodle water.
2. Add soy sauce and gochugaru; mix well.
3. Bring the sauce to a simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly.

Step 4: Toss Noodles with Sauce

1. Add the cooked udon noodles to the pan.
2. Toss gently to ensure all noodles are evenly coated in the creamy gochujang sauce.

Step 5: Serve Your Dish

1. Transfer the noodles to a bowl.
2. Top with grated parmesan cheese, chopped green onion, and an optional egg yolk for extra richness.
3. Serve hot and enjoy your creamy gochujang udon noodles!

How to Serve Creamy Gochujang Udon Noodles

Creamy gochujang udon noodles can be enjoyed in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether you prefer them as a standalone dish or paired with other flavors, here are some serving suggestions to elevate this delicious meal.

Garnish with Fresh Ingredients

• Chopped Green Onions – Add a fresh crunch and a pop of color to your dish.
• Sesame Seeds – Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds for added texture and nutty flavor.
• Cilantro – Fresh cilantro gives a bright contrast that complements the creamy sauce.

Pair with Proteins

• Grilled Chicken – Sliced grilled chicken adds heartiness and protein, making the meal more filling.
• Tofu – Crispy fried or sautéed tofu is an excellent vegetarian option that absorbs the sauce well.
• Shrimp – Toss in some sautéed shrimp for a seafood twist that pairs perfectly with the noodles.

Serve as a Bowl Meal

• Vegetable Medley – Add steamed or sautéed vegetables like bok choy or bell peppers for a colorful and nutritious bowl.
• Soft-Boiled Egg – A soft-boiled egg on top adds richness and creaminess, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Pin this!

How to Perfect Creamy Gochujang Udon Noodles

To achieve the perfect creamy gochujang udon noodles, consider these essential tips. These will help you master the dish and impress your family or guests.

• Use Fresh Udon Noodles – Fresh udon noodles provide a better texture compared to frozen ones. They absorb the sauce beautifully.
• Adjust Gochujang Level – For spice lovers, increase the amount of gochujang. Conversely, reduce it if you prefer a milder flavor.
• Simmer Sauce Well – Allow the sauce to simmer adequately before adding noodles. This thickens it and enhances the flavors.
• Reserve Enough Noodle Water – The starchy noodle water helps create a creamy consistency. Don’t skip reserving it!
• Experiment with Toppings – Try different toppings like kimchi or pickled radishes for an exciting twist on flavor.
• Serve Immediately – Enjoy your noodles hot. They taste best right after cooking when they are most flavorful.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Gochujang Udon Noodles

Pairing your creamy gochujang udon noodles with sides can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some side dishes that complement this dish wonderfully.

1. Kimchi – This fermented vegetable dish adds tang and heat, balancing out the creaminess of the udon noodles.
2. Edamame – Lightly salted edamame provides protein and is perfect for snacking while enjoying your main dish.
3. Miso Soup – A warm bowl of miso soup complements the bold flavors of gochujang without overpowering them.
4. Asian Slaw – Crunchy cabbage slaw dressed in sesame vinaigrette adds freshness and crunch to your meal.
5. Spring Rolls – Crisp spring rolls filled with veggies or shrimp offer a delightful contrast in texture and flavor.
6. Fried Rice – A small serving of fried rice can make this meal even more satisfying, adding extra carbs and flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making creamy gochujang udon noodles can be simple, but a few common mistakes can affect your dish’s flavor and texture.

• Skipping the reserved noodle water: This water contains starch that helps thicken your sauce. Always reserve some to achieve the perfect creamy consistency.
• Overcooking the udon noodles: Udon noodles should be chewy, not mushy. Follow the package instructions carefully to avoid overcooking.
• Not measuring gochujang: Gochujang is potent. Measure it accurately for balanced heat and flavor. Adjust based on your spice preference.
• Using low-quality ingredients: The flavor of this dish relies on quality ingredients. Use fresh garlic, good butter, and high-quality cream for the best results.
• Neglecting to garnish: Garnishes like green onions and parmesan add extra flavor and texture. Don’t skip this step for a well-rounded dish.

Pin this!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Creamy Gochujang Udon Noodles

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Creamy Gochujang Udon Noodles

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover noodles with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until heated through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pan over medium-low heat, adding a splash of reserved noodle water if necessary to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making creamy gochujang udon noodles.

What is gochujang?

Gochujang is a Korean fermented chili paste made from red chili powder, glutinous rice, fermented soybeans, and salt. It adds depth and spiciness to dishes.

Can I make creamy gochujang udon noodles vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute butter with plant-based butter or olive oil, and ensure your cream is dairy-free if needed.

How spicy are creamy gochujang udon noodles?

The spice level depends on how much gochujang you use. Start with less if you’re sensitive to spice and adjust according to your taste.

Can I customize my creamy gochujang udon noodles?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bok choy or bell peppers or proteins such as chicken or tofu for added nutrition.

Are creamy gochujang udon noodles good for meal prep?

Yes! They store well in the fridge or freezer, making them great for meal prep options throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Creamy gochujang udon noodles are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them with different veggies or proteins according to your preferences. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that will satisfy cravings and delight your taste buds. Give it a try today!