Spicy Seafood Udon Pasta

The Spicy Seafood Udon Pasta is a flavorful fusion of fresh shrimp and squid with a rich, spicy sauce that clings perfectly to chewy udon noodles. The addition of ginger, garlic, and red chili elevates this dish, creating a satisfying balance of heat and umami.

This dish not only tastes amazing but also presents beautifully, making it a perfect option for a dinner party or a special weeknight meal. The fragrant cilantro and toasted sesame seeds add a nice finishing touch to this vibrant, spicy seafood delight.

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

• 200g udon noodles

• 150g shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 100g squid, sliced

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 red chili, sliced

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon fish sauce

• 1 teaspoon chili paste

• 1/4 cup chicken broth

• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, toasted

• 1/2 lime, juiced

• Salt to taste

• Pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Cook the udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add ginger, garlic, and red chili, and sauté for about 2 minutes.

3. Add shrimp and squid to the pan, and cook for 3-4 minutes until seafood turns pink and opaque.

4. Stir in soy sauce, fish sauce, and chili paste. Add the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.

5. Toss in the cooked udon noodles and stir until well coated with the sauce. Let it simmer for an additional 2 minutes.

6. Drizzle sesame oil over the top and toss again. Garnish with cilantro, sesame seeds, and a squeeze of lime juice.

7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes Kcal: 330 kcal | Servings: 2 servings

The Key Ingredients that Make This Dish Stand Out

When preparing Spicy Seafood Udon Pasta, there are a few ingredients that truly set it apart. These ingredients not only enhance the dish but make it memorable. Here’s a closer look at the key components:

1. Shichimi Togarashi – Often called Japanese seven-spice, this blend is the heart of the dish’s spice profile. Comprising chili flakes, sesame seeds, seaweed, and other spices, it adds a unique umami flavor with a mild heat that complements the seafood and noodles perfectly. It’s a critical ingredient that can’t be replaced with anything else.

2. Butter – The butter used in the dish is essential for giving the noodles that rich, savory flavor. It also helps to create the velvety sauce that coats the noodles and seafood, creating a luxurious texture and deep taste. Without it, the dish would lose its characteristic creaminess.

3. Udon Noodles – These thick, chewy noodles are the perfect base for the spicy seafood. Their texture holds up well to the bold sauce, making each bite satisfying. Whether you use fresh or frozen udon, make sure they’re slightly parboiled to ensure they don’t overcook when stir-frying.

4. Seafood – Kabuki’s version of the dish includes shrimp, scallops, mussels, and calamari. The diversity in seafood adds richness and depth to the dish. The seafood is lightly seasoned and then stir-fried with garlic, allowing its natural flavors to shine through while complementing the seasoning sauce.

5. Vegetables – Carrots and asparagus are added for crunch and freshness. The asparagus, in particular, offers a unique flavor that pairs wonderfully with the noodles, giving the dish an extra layer of texture and taste. These vegetables balance out the richness of the seafood and butter, making the dish well-rounded.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for a Quick, Weeknight Meal

One of the great things about Spicy Seafood Udon Pasta is how quick and easy it is to prepare. In less than 20 minutes, you can have a full meal ready to serve. The seafood cooks quickly, and the noodles only need a brief blanching before being stir-fried. The seasoning sauce comes together in a matter of minutes, and once everything is combined, it’s ready to serve.

This makes the recipe an ideal choice for busy weeknights or when you want a flavorful meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. Despite its simplicity, it doesn’t compromise on flavor. The combination of fresh seafood, savory seasoning, and rich butter will leave you feeling satisfied and content.

Flavor Balance: The Secret to Its Unique Taste

What truly makes Spicy Seafood Udon Pasta stand out is the balance of flavors. The dish has the right combination of spicy, savory, and buttery elements that work in harmony. The heat from the Shichimi togarashi spices is perfectly countered by the richness of the butter, creating a comforting sauce that’s both bold and mellow at the same time.

The seafood adds a delicate sweetness that contrasts with the depth of the seasoning sauce. The vegetables, especially the asparagus, bring freshness and crunch, ensuring that each bite has multiple textures that keep things interesting. The resulting dish is balanced, complex, and incredibly satisfying.

Perfect Pairings for Spicy Seafood Udon Pasta

When serving Spicy Seafood Udon Pasta, it pairs wonderfully with light, refreshing sides. A simple salad with a tangy vinaigrette can help balance the richness of the pasta. If you’re looking for something more substantial, steamed rice or a side of sautéed greens like spinach or bok choy can make for a great accompaniment. Additionally, pairing it with a chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a crisp Sapporo beer can enhance the flavors and elevate the meal.

Customizing Your Spicy Seafood Udon Pasta

One of the joys of making Spicy Seafood Udon Pasta is its versatility. You can adjust the recipe to suit your taste or dietary preferences. For instance, if you’re not a fan of one particular seafood, you can substitute it with another type, like crab or lobster. Additionally, you can adjust the spice level to your liking by adding more or less Shichimi togarashi or even switching it out for a different chili spice blend.

If you’re looking to make the dish lighter, you can reduce the butter or use a healthier oil option like olive oil. For a more indulgent version, add more butter and seafood, making it a rich and decadent treat.

Conclusion: Why You Should Try Spicy Seafood Udon Pasta

Spicy Seafood Udon Pasta is more than just a dish; it’s an experience. The bold flavors, comforting textures, and the richness of the seafood come together in a way that is both satisfying and exciting. Whether you’re an experienced home cook or someone new to the kitchen, this recipe offers a chance to make a meal that feels both luxurious and accessible.

This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves seafood and wants to experiment with Japanese flavors. It’s quick, easy, and flavorful, making it the ideal choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. So, the next time you’re craving something spicy, savory, and indulgent, give Spicy Seafood Udon Pasta a try—it’s sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection.