Udon noodles

What Types of Udon Noodles Are There?

The world of udon noodles is diverse, and the many varieties differ in shape, thickness, preparation, and use. Depending on the region in Japan, different types are preferred:

• Sanuki Udon (Kagawa, Shikoku): Thick, square, and elastic in texture, this most famous udon variety is typically served in clear dashi broth, e.g. as Kake Udon.
• Inaniwa Udon (Akita, Northern Japan): Often hand-pulled, these noodles are thinner, softer, and smoother in texture with a delicate bite. Popular served cold with dipping sauce.
• Kishimen (Nagoya, Aichi): These soft udon noodles are as wide and flat as ribbon noodles and are served in rich soy broth or with bonito flakes.
• Miso Nikomi Udon (Nagoya): Cooked directly in a dark miso broth in a clay pot (donabe), these udon noodles are served as a hearty dish with egg, tofu skin, and vegetables.
• Himokawa Udon (Gunma): Extremely wide and thin noodles, similar to lasagna sheets, considered a regional specialty and mostly served cold.
• Yaki Udon: This stir-fried version combines noodles with meat, vegetables, and soy or oyster sauce, making it a popular street food or quick main dish.
• Instant Udon: Perfect for quick meals: instant noodles are usually pre-cooked or dried and enhanced with flavors like miso or seafood.

Udon noodles are available dried (with long shelf life), fresh and ready to cook, or frozen to retain taste and texture. The low-calorie, gluten-free version is made from konjac flour, derived from the konjac root.

Udon Noodles – Japan’s Comfort Food

Japanese udon noodles are quick and easy to prepare – soft, warm, and filling – the ultimate comfort food in Japan. They are easy to digest and particularly soothing when served in hot broth, especially when feeling unwell. Udon is widely available, served at home and in countless restaurants, cafeterias, and food stalls. Many Japanese associate udon with childhood, everyday life, and familiarity.

Udon is incredibly flexible in preparation and can be tailored to individual tastes and seasons: served hot in broth during winter, cold with dipping sauce or as a salad in summer, or in combination with curry, tempura, or vegetables. In regions like Kagawa, udon is a culinary symbol that is truly celebrated. For the Japanese, udon is more than just a filling meal – it’s nourishment for the soul.

Curious Facts About Udon Noodles

• Udon dough is traditionally kneaded with the feet. The tough dough is wrapped in cloth, and treading it makes it supple and perfectly elastic.
• Some regions in Japan serve udon noodles up to one meter long. They are cooked and eaten without being broken and symbolize longevity.
• Udon noodles are so popular in Japan that they are even sold in vending machines at train stations – just like sushi or ramen – perfect as a snack or for hungry commuters.
• There are restaurants in Japan that serve only Sanuki Udon. Connoisseurs appreciate the firm bite of the noodles and the quality of the broth.
• In Kagawa, Japan’s udon capital, regular udon festivals and eating contests are held. There’s even udon tourism with official routes through local udon shops.
• Udon is not just a winter dish: Cold varieties like Zaru Udon or salad-style udon are popular in Japan during the summer – served with dipping sauce, ice cubes, or even lemon slices.
• On July 2nd, Japan celebrates the unofficial "Udon no Hi" (Udon Noodle Day). Noodle producers introduced this day to honor the centuries-old tradition.

Why Buy Udon Noodles at Asia Foodstore?

• Discover variety: Whether classic thick, flat, pre-cooked or as instant bowls – at Asia Foodstore you’ll find a wide range of Asian udon noodles in various types and flavors.
• Authentically Japanese: Our udon noodles come directly from Japan, from renowned producers like Itsuki, Kubota, or Miyata.
• Excellent quality: We carry only carefully selected Asian brands known for their authentic taste and high product quality.
• Outstanding customer service: Have questions about our udon varieties, preparation, or selection? Our team is happy to provide personal and expert advice.
• Fast shipping: Your order will be well-packed and shipped within 1–3 working days. Free shipping within Germany on orders over €49.

Order Udon Noodles Now at Asia Foodstore

Feeling inspired to try these Japanese noodles for yourself? Then explore our wide range of udon noodles at Asia Foodstore. In our shop, you can buy various types – dried, pre-cooked, gluten-free and low-calorie made from konjac root flour instead of wheat, as instant noodles, noodle soup bowls, or in flavors like Hot & Spicy, miso, seafood or tempura. Try out different products and find your favorite variety of Asian udon noodles. Cook them in miso or soy broth, stir-fry them with vegetables, meat, and flavorful sauces, prepare them as a spicy curry dish, or enjoy them cold with dipping sauce or in a salad. This Asian noodle is so versatile, there’s an udon recipe to match every taste.

If you have any questions about our udon products, individual items, or how to use them, feel free to contact us via our contact form or by email. Our friendly customer service team is happy to assist you.

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FAQ – Udon Noodles

How important are udon noodles in the Japanese diet?
After rice, udon noodles are one of the most important staples in Japanese cuisine. Especially in regions like Kagawa, they are eaten daily – typically as soup, stir-fried dishes, or in convenient instant form.

What is the difference between udon and soba?
Udon noodles are made from wheat flour and are thick, soft, and elastic, while soba noodles are made from buckwheat flour and are thinner with a nuttier, heartier flavor.

Are there gluten-free versions of udon noodles?
Yes, konjac udon noodles contain no gluten and are also available at Asia Foodstore.

What sauces go well with udon noodles?
Udon tastes especially good with soy sauce, mentsuyu (Japanese noodle broth), miso sauces, curry sauces, or sesame dressings – served hot or cold depending on the dish.

Can you freeze udon noodles?
Yes, fresh udon noodles can be frozen. This preserves their flavor and texture – just thaw before cooking or add directly to boiling water.