Vegan Garlic Udon Noodles (15-Minute Easy Recipe) Recipe
This Vegan Garlic Udon Noodles recipe is a quick and flavorful 15-minute meal perfect for busy weeknights. Featuring chewy udon noodles tossed in a savory garlic-soy sauce blend with a touch of sweetness and optional heat, it’s a versatile and satisfying vegan dish that is easy to prepare and customize.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
Noodles
- 14-16 oz udon noodles (frozen or vacuum sealed, about 2 packets)
Vegetables
- 1 small yellow onion, finely sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped or crushed
- Handful of chives or 2 green onions, finely chopped (optional)
Sauce
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (vegan oyster sauce works too)
- ½ tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- 1 tsp sesame oil, plus more for cooking
- ½-1 tsp sriracha or spicy chili oil (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the noodles: Follow the package instructions for cooking udon noodles based on the type and brand. For frozen thick udon, thaw them under cold running water in a colander until separated.
- Make the sauce: In a small jar, combine soy sauce, hoisin or vegan oyster sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, sesame oil, sriracha or chili oil (if using), and sesame seeds. Whisk well and set aside.
- Sauté onions: Heat a large pan or wok over medium-high heat with a little sesame oil. Add the finely sliced onion and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onions are tender but still slightly crunchy.
- Add garlic: Stir in the chopped or crushed garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until fragrant while stirring often to prevent burning.
- Simmer with sauce: Pour the prepared sauce into the pan and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes so the flavors meld.
- Combine noodles and garnish: Add the chopped chives or green onions (if using) and the prepared udon noodles to the pan. Stir well to combine and heat through. Serve topped with extra sesame seeds and chives, if desired.
Notes
- Use frozen or vacuum-sealed udon noodles for best texture; fresh udon can be substituted but adjust cook times accordingly.
- Adjust the amount of sriracha or chili oil to control spiciness or omit for a milder flavor.
- Maple syrup provides a subtle sweetness, but agave or brown sugar can be used as alternatives.
- For added protein, consider tossing in tofu or tempeh after cooking the onions and garlic.
- This dish pairs well with steamed or stir-fried vegetables if you want to increase the vegetable content.
