This Japanese Noodle Bowl is a delightful, versatile recipe that can be enjoyed hot or cold, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying main dish or a flavourful side, this dish delivers with its medley of fresh vegetables, savoury noodles, and customisable toppings. Pair it with Spiral garlic sauce for a warm, comforting meal, or whip up a quick dressing for a refreshing cold version.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of your favourite vegetables (e.g., capsicum, carrots, edamame beans, cabbage, shallots)
- 200g soba noodles
- 1 tbsp Spiral garlic sauce (for the hot version)
- 1 tbsp each of mirin, soy sauce, vinegar, and sesame oil (for the cold version)
- Optional toppings: sesame seeds, nori, pickles, microgreens, or sliced cooked meat
Hot Version Instructions:
- Prepare the Vegetables: Chop a cup of vegetables, such as capsicum, carrots, edamame beans, cabbage, and shallots.
- Cook the Noodles: Cook the soba noodles according to the packet instructions.
- Boil the Vegetables: In the same water as the noodles, boil the carrots, edamame, and capsicum until tender.
- Pan-Fry the Rest: In a pan, fry the cabbage, mushrooms, and green shallots until slightly caramelized.
- Assemble the Bowl: Strain the noodles and boiled vegetables. Add the noodles to a bowl and stir through the Spiral garlic sauce. Top with the pan-fried vegetables.
- Add Finishing Touches: Sprinkle sesame seeds and a pinch of nori on top. Optional: Add pickles, microgreens, or sliced cooked meat for extra flavour.
Cold Version Instructions:
- Prepare the Vegetables: Chop a cup of vegetables and prepare as described above.
- Cook the Noodles: Follow the same instructions for cooking soba noodles and boiling vegetables.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, mix equal parts mirin, soy sauce, vinegar, and sesame oil.
- Combine: Toss the noodles and vegetables with the dressing until evenly coated.
- Serve: Garnish with sesame seeds, nori, or any optional toppings like pickles, microgreens, or meat. Serve chilled.
This recipe is highly adaptable. Swap in your favourite vegetables, adjust the sauce to taste, or add proteins like tofu, chicken, or shrimp. The possibilities are endless!
Whether served warm with savoury garlic sauce or chilled with a tangy dressing, this Japanese Noodle Bowl is a dish that’s sure to impress. Easy to prepare and brimming with flavour, it’s a must-try addition to your meal rotation. Enjoy experimenting with toppings and create your perfect bowl today!
