Tan Tan Udon, for Japan

spicy udon noodle soup

Tan Tan Udon
udon noodles in a spicy miso soup with soy milk, ground sesame, pork and bok choy

I had been wanting to cook something Japanese – something substantial, warm and comforting. Our hearts break for the people of Japan. The jaw-dropping destruction from the devastating 9.0 earthquake and ensuing tsunami is painful to look at…have you seen this stunning Photography Framework by the Los Angeles Times? I can only imagine the sadness, fear, and sense of loss that they are feeling. I’m grateful that we are able to help. I just wish we could do more…God bless the US Military and all those helping in the relief efforts. God bless Japan.

Continue reading “Tan Tan Udon, for Japan”

Udon – Beef & Shiitake

Japanese Style Noodle Soup
Udon Noodles in a Beef Broth
Shiitake, Roast Beef, Bean Sprouts, Scallions, Chiles

The Udon Noodle package instructs, “Use anything in the refrigerator to create your healthy gourmet meal or snack in minutes.” Well, I don’t know about anything, but here I used my own beef broth instead of the flavor packet, and added shiitake and roast beef.

Udon is a thick, firm, chewy Japanese noodle made from wheat flour.

Heat beef broth then add sliced shiitake. When the shiitake are cooked, add a splash of soy sauce and mirin, and a touch of sugar. Turn off the heat and add the garnishes and beef.

Garnished with bean sprouts, scallions and fiery chiles. This fast, savory soup is different every time, depending on what is on hand. Ladle into a bowl, sprinkle with more scallions, and for more heat, top with Asian hot chili sauce.

Utensils include chopsticks and a soup spoon.
The origin of udon in Japan is usually credited to Kūkai, a Buddhist priest, who traveled to China around the beginning of the 9th century to study Buddhism. When he returned, he also brought back the knowledge of udon soup to his farmer neighbors in the Sanuki region of Japan. (from Wikipedia)
itada kimasu
P.S. If you like Beef Noodle Soup, you might want to take a look at this post on Pho Bo.