Spicy Udon Noodle Soup

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This savory and spicy soup stars thick, bouncy udon noodles in a flavorful broth made with garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and a kick from chili paste or gochujang. It’s loaded with shiitake mushrooms, bok choy, and scallions—perfect for a quick, soul-warming meal that satisfies every craving for comfort and spice.

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Yields2 Servings
Prep Time20 minsCook Time20 minsTotal Time40 mins
Broth
 1 tbsp neutral oil (like avocado or canola)
 3 cloves garlic, minced
 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
 1 tbsp chili paste (sambal oelek, sriracha, or gochujang)
 4 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
 1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
 1 tbsp mirin or rice vinegar
 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
Noodles & Toppings
 2 portions fresh or frozen udon noodles (or ~7 oz dried)
 1 cup sliced shiitake or cremini mushrooms
 2 baby bok choy, halved lengthwise or chopped
 2 scallions, sliced thin
 Optional: soft-boiled eggs, tofu cubes, spinach, chili oil, sesame seeds
Prepare the Broth
1
  1. In a medium pot, heat neutral oil over medium heat.

  2. Add garlic and ginger, sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

  3. Stir in chili paste, cook for another 30 seconds.

  4. Pour in broth, soy sauce, and mirin. Bring to a gentle simmer for 5–7 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Cook the Noodles
2
  1. Meanwhile, cook udon noodles according to package instructions (fresh and frozen usually take ~2–3 minutes; dried may take 8–10).

  2. Drain and rinse briefly under warm water to loosen. Set aside.

Add the Veggies
3
  1. Add mushrooms to the simmering broth and cook for 3–4 minutes until tender.

  2. Add bok choy and simmer for another 2–3 minutes, until just wilted.

Assemble the Soup
4
  1. Divide noodles into bowls.

  2. Ladle hot broth and veggies over the top.

  3. Drizzle with sesame oil and top with sliced scallions.

Garnish & Serve
5
  1. Add optional toppings like soft-boiled eggs, crispy tofu, chili oil, or sesame seeds.

  2. Serve immediately while everything is piping hot and steamy.

Tips for Success
6
  • For extra heat, stir in chili oil, shichimi togarashi, or more sambal at the end.

  • Make it vegan by using veggie broth and skipping eggs.

  • Want a protein boost? Add cubed tofu, shrimp, or thinly sliced beef to the simmering broth.

Variations
7
  • Add miso paste for extra depth (whisk in just before serving).

  • Sub ramen or rice noodles if udon isn’t available.

  • Add a splash of coconut milk to mellow the spice and add richness.

Suggested Pairings
8
  • Drink: Green tea, cold Japanese beer, or yuzu soda

  • Serve with: Edamame, pickled cucumbers, or a seaweed salad

  • Occasion: Quick weeknight dinner, cozy weekend lunch, or spicy hangover cure

Ingredients

Broth
 1 tbsp neutral oil (like avocado or canola)
 3 cloves garlic, minced
 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
 1 tbsp chili paste (sambal oelek, sriracha, or gochujang)
 4 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
 1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
 1 tbsp mirin or rice vinegar
 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
Noodles & Toppings
 2 portions fresh or frozen udon noodles (or ~7 oz dried)
 1 cup sliced shiitake or cremini mushrooms
 2 baby bok choy, halved lengthwise or chopped
 2 scallions, sliced thin
 Optional: soft-boiled eggs, tofu cubes, spinach, chili oil, sesame seeds
Spicy Udon Noodle Soup
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