This Miso Udon Noodle Soup with Teriyaki Mushrooms is a comforting, savory dish that combines rich miso broth with chewy udon noodles and tender, flavorful mushrooms. The miso broth is the base that infuses the noodles and vegetables with umami richness, while the teriyaki mushrooms add a touch of sweetness and depth to the dish. The combination of textures from the thick, slurpy udon noodles and the sautéed mushrooms creates a satisfying bowl that will keep you warm and full. You can easily customize the recipe by swapping the mushrooms for tofu or adding in your favorite vegetables. Best enjoyed on a chilly evening or when you’re craving a cozy, quick meal.
Ingredients
-
200g udon noodles
-
4-5 shiitake mushrooms (or any mushrooms of choice), sliced
-
1 tablespoon sesame oil
-
1 tablespoon soy sauce
-
1 tablespoon teriyaki sauce
-
2 tablespoons white miso paste
-
3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
-
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
-
1 tablespoon mirin (optional)
-
1 teaspoon grated ginger
-
1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
-
2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
-
1/2 cup spinach or bok choy (optional)
Directions
-
In a medium pot, bring the vegetable or chicken broth to a simmer over medium heat.
-
Stir in the white miso paste, rice vinegar, and mirin, and whisk until the miso paste is dissolved into the broth. Let it simmer gently for 5-7 minutes.
-
While the broth is simmering, heat the sesame oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and lightly browned.
-
Add the soy sauce and teriyaki sauce to the mushrooms, and stir well to coat them in the sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the mushrooms are caramelized. Remove from heat and set aside.
-
Cook the udon noodles according to package instructions, then drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
-
To assemble, divide the cooked noodles between bowls and pour the miso broth over the noodles.
-
Top with the sautéed teriyaki mushrooms, spinach or bok choy (if using), and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
-
Serve hot and enjoy the comforting bowl of miso udon noodle soup.
Nutritional Value (per serving)
-
Calories: 330 kcal
-
Protein: 10g
-
Fat: 12g
-
Carbohydrates: 45g
-
Fiber: 4g
-
Sugars: 8g
The Health Benefits of Miso Udon Noodle Soup
Miso Udon Noodle Soup with Teriyaki Mushrooms is not only delicious but also offers several health benefits, making it a great addition to a balanced diet.
Miso Paste: A Powerhouse of Nutrition
Miso paste, the foundation of this soup, is a fermented food that is made from soybeans, salt, and a type of mold called koji. This fermentation process breaks down the nutrients in soybeans and enhances their bioavailability, meaning that your body can absorb and utilize the nutrients more effectively. Miso is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. It also contains probiotics, which support gut health and digestion. The beneficial bacteria found in miso are particularly useful for maintaining a healthy balance of gut flora.
In addition to these probiotics, miso is rich in antioxidants and essential minerals such as manganese, copper, and zinc. These nutrients play important roles in supporting the immune system, reducing inflammation, and promoting overall health.
Udon Noodles: Filling and Satisfying
Udon noodles are made from simple ingredients like flour, water, and salt, and they’re known for their chewy texture. While they may seem like an indulgent ingredient, they offer some nutritional value as well. Udon noodles are a good source of carbohydrates, which are your body’s primary source of energy. When paired with miso broth, which contains protein and fiber, udon noodles help create a satisfying, filling meal that provides lasting energy.
Additionally, udon noodles are low in fat and can be enjoyed as part of a healthy meal when balanced with vegetables, protein, and healthy fats, as seen in this recipe with the addition of mushrooms and garnishes like sesame seeds and green onions.
Mushrooms: Nutrient-Rich and Flavorful
The star of this dish, aside from the udon noodles and miso, is the teriyaki mushrooms. Mushrooms are packed with essential nutrients such as B vitamins, potassium, and fiber. They also contain antioxidants like ergothioneine, which helps protect cells from oxidative stress and supports overall health. Shiitake mushrooms, commonly used in this recipe, are also known for their immune-boosting properties. They contain lentinans, a type of beta-glucan that helps activate immune cells in the body.
Teriyaki mushrooms, in particular, add a savory-sweet element to the dish, enhancing the umami flavor profile of the soup. The soy sauce and teriyaki sauce used in the mushrooms’ preparation not only boost flavor but also add extra antioxidants and minerals. Whether you opt for shiitake mushrooms or other varieties, mushrooms are a nutritious, low-calorie addition that complements the miso broth beautifully.
A Nutritious and Satisfying Meal
This soup is a great example of how to incorporate nutrient-dense, whole foods into a single meal. The balance of miso, udon noodles, and mushrooms provides a healthy mix of carbohydrates, protein, and fats. The miso broth provides hydration and supports digestion, while the mushrooms and sesame seeds add a source of fiber and healthy fats. The dish is also packed with micronutrients that support immune health, bone health, and skin health, making it a great choice for those looking to improve their overall well-being.
Customizing the Miso Udon Soup
One of the best aspects of Miso Udon Noodle Soup with Teriyaki Mushrooms is its versatility. You can easily adapt this dish to suit your dietary preferences and the ingredients you have on hand. Here are some ways to customize the soup to make it your own:
Make It Vegan or Vegetarian
If you’re following a vegan or vegetarian diet, this recipe is already a great choice, but you can take it a step further by making a few substitutions. For a more plant-based option, replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth, and ensure that your teriyaki sauce is vegan (some store-bought varieties may contain honey or fish sauce). For protein, you can swap the mushrooms for tofu or tempeh, both of which absorb the miso broth well and provide a similar texture to the mushrooms.
Add More Vegetables
While this recipe includes optional spinach or bok choy, there’s a wide variety of vegetables you can add to boost the nutritional content and flavor of the soup. Some popular options include carrots, kale, napa cabbage, or even zucchini. These vegetables will add color, texture, and additional vitamins to your dish, making it even more nourishing.
Make It Gluten-Free
For those with gluten sensitivities or allergies, you can make this soup gluten-free by using gluten-free udon noodles. These noodles are available in most grocery stores and can be used as a one-to-one replacement. Be sure to check that your soy sauce and teriyaki sauce are also gluten-free or use tamari sauce as an alternative.
Spicy Twist
If you enjoy a little heat in your dishes, consider adding chili paste or a splash of sriracha to the broth. This will bring an extra layer of flavor and spice to the soup, complementing the rich umami of the miso and the sweet teriyaki mushrooms. You could also sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top as a garnish for a bit of kick.
Why This Dish is Perfect for Any Season
While this Miso Udon Noodle Soup with Teriyaki Mushrooms is ideal for cold weather, it’s a dish that can be enjoyed year-round. In the winter, the warm broth will provide comfort and warmth, while in the summer, you can serve it with a lighter, cooler broth or even as a chilled noodle salad. The versatility of the dish allows it to adapt to various seasons and occasions, whether you’re serving it at a cozy family dinner or preparing it as a quick weeknight meal.
Conclusion
Miso Udon Noodle Soup with Teriyaki Mushrooms is an easy-to-make, nutritious, and incredibly satisfying meal. With its rich umami miso broth, chewy udon noodles, and savory teriyaki mushrooms, it offers a beautiful balance of flavors and textures that are sure to delight. The health benefits of miso paste, udon noodles, and mushrooms combine to create a wholesome dish that nourishes both the body and soul.
This soup is highly customizable, so whether you prefer it vegan, gluten-free, or packed with additional vegetables, you can make it your own. It’s a versatile dish that is perfect for any season and ideal for those looking for a comforting meal that can be enjoyed in less than an hour. Whether you’re craving a bowl of warmth on a cold evening or want a quick and nutritious lunch, this Miso Udon Noodle Soup with Teriyaki Mushrooms is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Enjoy!