Japanese Noodles with Shrimp

Japanese cuisine is celebrated for its delicate flavours, fresh ingredients, and meticulous presentation. Among its myriad offerings, noodle dishes stand out for their versatility and comforting nature. One such dish is Japanese Noodles with Shrimp. A delightful blend of textures and tastes that embodies the essence of Japanese culinary artistry. I love to have a broth with my noodles and this dish combines everything perfect. The vegetables are cooked in the broth boosting their flavours.

Varieties of Japanese Noodles

Japanese noodles come in several varieties, each with its own unique characteristics. The most commonly used types for shrimp dishes include:

Ramen: Thin, wheat-based noodles that are typically served in a rich, savoury broth.

Udon: Thick, chewy noodles made from wheat flour, often served in a lighter broth or stir-fried.

Soba: Buckwheat noodles that can be served hot in broth or cold with dipping sauce.

The Star of the Dish: Shrimp

Shrimp, or “ebi” in Japanese, is a beloved ingredient in Japanese cuisine. Its sweet, briny flavour and firm texture make it an excellent complement to noodles. Whether grilled, tempura-fried, or simply boiled, shrimp adds a touch of elegance and umami to any noodle dish.

Preparing Japanese Noodles with Shrimp

Here’s a basic recipe outline for a delicious Japanese noodle dish with shrimp:

Ingredients:

Noodles and Broth:

200g Japanese noodles (ramen, udon, or soba)

1 litre dashi stock (or chicken/vegetable stock)

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 tablespoon mirin (sweet rice wine)

1 tablespoon sake (optional

Shrimp and Aromatics:

250g fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon ginger, grated

Fresh Vegetables:

1 head bok choy, chopped

100g shiitake mushrooms, sliced

1 medium carrot, julienned

2 spring onions, finely chopped

Optional Toppings and Garnishes:

4 boiled eggs (optional)

1 tablespoon sesame seeds for garnish

Tips for Serving:

Serve the dish immediately while it’s hot to enjoy the best flavours and textures.

Pair with traditional side dishes like tempura, gyoza, or edamame to create a more elaborate meal.

A side of pickled vegetables (tsukemono) can enhance the dining experience by adding a tangy, refreshing contrast to the rich and savoury noodles.

Complementary Side Dishes

To create a well-rounded meal, consider serving the noodle dish with some traditional Japanese side dishes:

Tempura: Lightly battered and deep-fried vegetables or seafood, which adds a crispy texture contrast.

Gyoza: Pan-fried dumplings filled with minced meat and vegetables, perfect for a savoury bite.

Pickled Vegetables (Tsukemono): These add a tangy, refreshing flavour to cleanse the palate.

Edamame: Steamed young soybeans, lightly salted, offer a healthy and simple side.

Miso Soup: A staple in Japanese cuisine, miso soup made with fermented soybean paste provides a warm and comforting start to the meal.

Japanese noodles with shrimp is a lovely versatile dish that showcases the simplicity and depth of Japanese cuisine. This recipe can be made as a quick lunch or a more elaborate dinner. Paired with a selection of traditional side dishes, it becomes a complete and satisfying meal. This recipe embodies the balance and harmony that is central to Japanese culinary philosophy and life in general.