Name: Vegan Yaki Udon Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 10 ounces udon noodles (fresh or dried); 1 large red pepper, thinly sliced (about 1 cup); 1 ½ cups thinly sliced cabbage (about ¼ of a large cabbage); 1 large carrot, thinly sliced (about ½ cup); 3 ounces snow peas; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 tablespoons dark soy sauce; 2 tablespoons vegan mushroom oyster sauce; 1.5 tablespoons mirin; ½ tablespoon dark brown sugar; 1-2 teaspoons gochujang (optional, for spice)

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 77 reviews

If you have been dreaming of a warm, comforting dish that beautifully balances flavor, texture, and vibrant colors, the Vegan Yaki Udon Recipe is the answer. This Japanese-inspired stir fry combines chewy udon noodles with crisp vegetables and a savory, slightly sweet sauce that hugs every strand and bite. Whether you’re seeking a quick weeknight dinner or a lunch that fills you with satisfaction, this recipe hits all the marks with delicious simplicity and wholesome ingredients you’ll love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a top view of multiple white bowls on a white marbled surface, each filled with different fresh ingredients. Starting from the top left, there is a bowl filled with thinly sliced light green cabbage, next to it a small white bowl with dark red gochujang sauce. Below the cabbage is a bowl with bright red sliced red peppers, while the center has a deep white bowl packed with thin, vibrant orange carrot sticks. To the right of the carrots, separate clear bowls hold dark brown vegan oyster/mushroom sauce, light translucent mirin, and a smaller bowl with brown sugar. Below these, a small white pitcher contains amber sesame oil. At the bottom left, a large clear bowl contains thick, creamy white udon noodles, and to the bottom right, a white bowl holds fresh green snow peas. The overall scene has vibrant colors and clear textures on a clean white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Vegan Yaki Udon Recipe lies in its straightforward and essential ingredients, each playing a key role in creating that perfect harmony of taste and texture. From the tender-cooked udon to the lively crunch of fresh veggies and the umami-rich sauces, every component shines.

10 ounces udon noodles: Fresh or dried, these thick, chewy noodles provide the hearty base of the dish.
1 large red pepper: Thinly sliced for a pop of vibrant color and sweet, juicy crunch.
1 ½ cups thinly sliced cabbage: Adds mild crunch and helps absorb the savory sauce beautifully.
1 large carrot: Thinly sliced for a touch of natural sweetness and bright orange color.
3 ounces snow peas: Crisp and fresh, these add a lovely snap and subtle sweetness.
1 Tablespoon sesame oil: This fragrant oil is essential for stir-frying and brings a warm, nutty aroma.
2 Tablespoons dark soy sauce: Provides deep umami flavor and an alluring dark hue to the noodles.
2 Tablespoons vegan mushroom oyster sauce: Intensifies the savory notes with its rich, earthy profile.
1.5 Tablespoons mirin: A hint of mild sweetness that balances the savory components perfectly.
½ Tablespoon dark brown sugar: Adds subtle warmth and depth to the sauce.
1-2 teaspoons gochujang (optional): Ideal for giving your Vegan Yaki Udon Recipe a gentle kick of spice if you like things a bit fiery.

How to Make Vegan Yaki Udon Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Udon Noodles

Start by cooking your udon noodles according to the package instructions. Fresh udon noodles only need about 2 minutes, while dried will take closer to 8 minutes. Once perfectly cooked to a tender chew, strain the noodles and set them aside to wait for their flavorful companions in the wok.

Step 2: Prepare Your Veggies and Sauce

While the noodles are cooking, slice your red pepper, cabbage, and carrot into thin, uniform strips. This ensures quick, even cooking and a beautiful texture contrast. Next, whisk together the dark soy sauce, vegan mushroom oyster sauce, mirin, brown sugar, and if you desire, the gochujang for a spicy edge. This homemade sauce packs the punch that makes the dish unforgettable.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat the sesame oil in a wok over medium-high heat until warm and shimmering. Toss in the sliced peppers, carrots, cabbage, and snow peas. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes until the cabbage softens and the vegetables start to develop light char marks, which bring a subtle smoky depth to the dish—so delicious.

Step 4: Combine Noodles and Sauce

Now, add the cooked udon noodles to the wok along with your freshly mixed sauce. Stir well to make sure every strand of noodle and piece of vegetable is coated in that glossy, savory sauce. Keep stirring and cooking for 3 to 5 minutes until the sauce thickens and stickily embraces every bite.

Step 5: Serve Immediately

Once your Vegan Yaki Udon Recipe is perfectly saucy and hot, take it off the heat and get ready to impress. The wondrous aromas and inviting colors are a sign you’re moments away from a satisfying and wholesome meal.

How to Serve Vegan Yaki Udon Recipe

The image shows a textured dark bowl filled with stir-fried udon noodles. The top layer consists of shiny, thick, brown noodles mixed with bright green snap peas and red bell pepper slices, along with a few pieces of light-colored chicken. White sesame seeds are sprinkled over the noodles for added texture. There is another similar bowl partially visible in the background, and a pair of red and beige chopsticks resting on the white marbled surface beside the bowl. A small dish filled with white sesame seeds is also placed near the bowl. The setting uses a white marbled background and soft natural lighting that highlights the colors and textures of the dish. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your Vegan Yaki Udon Recipe even more, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top just before serving. These garnishes add a fresh crunch and a burst of nutty flavor that make every bite even more delightful.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with light, refreshing sides like a crisp cucumber salad or pickled ginger to cut through the richness. If you want to add some protein, steamed edamame or baked tofu cubes make excellent companions without taking away from the dish’s harmony.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your yaki udon in shallow bowls and garnish with sprigs of fresh cilantro or finely sliced nori strips. You can also offer extra gochujang on the side for spice lovers. The vibrant colors and layers of texture make for both a feast for the eyes and the palate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover Vegan Yaki Udon Recipe, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The noodles might firm up a bit but will regain their chewiness after reheating. Avoid letting the dish sit out too long to preserve freshness and texture.

Freezing

While freezing stir-fried noodles isn’t always ideal due to potential texture changes, you can freeze the cooked noodles and sauce separately in airtight containers for up to one month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to maintain the best quality.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm your Vegan Yaki Udon Recipe in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or vegetable broth if needed to loosen the sauce. This keeps the noodles from drying out and helps the flavors refresh beautifully. Avoid microwaving directly if possible for the best texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen udon noodles for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen udon noodles work great and usually require just a brief heating to separate before cooking. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly to avoid overcooking.

Is the vegan mushroom oyster sauce necessary?

While it adds a lovely depth of umami, you can substitute with extra soy sauce or tamari if you don’t have it on hand. Just remember it heightens the savory character significantly.

How spicy does this recipe get with gochujang?

Gochujang adds a mild to medium heat depending on how much you use. Starting with 1 teaspoon is a good idea, and you can always add more after tasting if you love spicy food.

Can I add other vegetables to the Vegan Yaki Udon Recipe?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in mushrooms, baby corn, or even snap peas. Just be mindful of the cooking times so everything stays perfectly crisp-tender.

What’s the best way to enjoy leftovers?

Leftovers are fantastic for lunch the next day and reheat best on the stovetop. Adding a squeeze of fresh lime or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds can really brighten things up after a day in the fridge.

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Yaki Udon Recipe has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen, and I’m thrilled to share it with you. Its balance of flavors, textures, and vibrant ingredients makes every meal feel special and nourishing. I can’t wait for you to try it and find your own reasons to love it as much as I do. Happy cooking!