Vegetarian Udon Soup: 5 Steps to Cozy Comfort Cooking

Name: Vegetarian Udon Soup: 5 Steps to Cozy Comfort Cooking
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 200g udon noodles; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup sliced mushrooms; 1 cup chopped bok choy; 1 carrot, sliced; 2 green onions, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; Salt to taste

June 27, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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There’s something so wonderfully comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when the chill of a cold day settles in. My absolute favorite is this vegetarian udon soup—it’s like a cozy hug in a bowl! Not only is it quick and easy to whip up, but it’s also jam-packed with flavors and colorful veggies that brighten your day. I love making this soup on lazy weekends when I want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try this simple recipe, you’ll find yourself reaching for it again and again. The best part? It’s perfect for beginners, so anyone can dive in and enjoy a delicious homemade meal in no time!

vegetarian udon soup - detail 1

Ingredients for Vegetarian Udon Soup

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to making this delicious vegetarian udon soup! Each one plays a vital role in creating that warm, comforting bowl. Here’s what you’ll need:

200g udon noodles: These thick, chewy noodles are the heart of the dish, providing a satisfying base.
4 cups vegetable broth: This adds depth and flavor to the soup—homemade is great, but store-bought works perfectly too!
1 cup sliced mushrooms: I love using mushrooms for their earthy flavor and meaty texture, which adds umami to the soup.
1 cup chopped bok choy: This leafy green not only adds color but also a lovely crunch when cooked.
1 carrot, sliced: Carrots bring a touch of sweetness and vibrant color to the mix.
2 green onions, chopped: These add a fresh, sharp bite and a pop of color when garnished on top.
2 cloves garlic, minced: A must for that aromatic base, enhancing all the flavors in the soup.
1 tablespoon soy sauce: It deepens the flavor and gives the broth a savory punch.
1 teaspoon sesame oil: This adds a nutty aroma, making your soup smell and taste amazing!
Salt to taste: A little pinch to elevate all the flavors—just don’t overdo it!

Feel free to get creative with your veggies! You can swap in whatever you have on hand, making this soup totally versatile for your tastes and pantry. Enjoy the process of cooking!

How to Prepare Vegetarian Udon Soup

Now that you’ve got all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this delightful vegetarian udon soup! I promise it’s straightforward and will have your kitchen smelling heavenly in no time. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious bowl of soup waiting for you!

Step 1: Cook the Udon Noodles

First things first, bring a pot of water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling away, add your 200g udon noodles and cook them according to the package instructions—usually about 8-10 minutes. You want them to be nice and chewy! Once done, drain the noodles and set them aside. Don’t worry; we’ll bring them back into the mix shortly!

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a separate pot, heat up 1 teaspoon sesame oil over medium heat. This step is where the magic begins! Add 2 cloves minced garlic and sauté them for about 1-2 minutes, or until they become fragrant and golden. Be careful not to let them burn; nobody likes burnt garlic!

Step 3: Add Vegetables

Next, toss in 1 cup sliced mushrooms and 1 sliced carrot. Stir them around and cook for about 4-5 minutes until they start to soften. This is where you’ll really start to smell the wonderful aromas coming together! Just keep an eye on them; we want them tender but not mushy.

Step 4: Create the Soup Base

Pour in 4 cups of vegetable broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Once it’s bubbling, add your 1 cup chopped bok choy, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, and a sprinkle of salt to taste. Give it a good stir and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This is where all those lovely flavors meld together, creating the perfect base for your soup!

Step 5: Final Steps

Now, it’s time to bring everything together! Add your drained udon noodles back into the pot and stir them gently into the soup. Let them warm up for another minute or two. When you’re ready to serve, ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped green onions on top. This adds a pop of color and a fresh bite that’s just divine!

And there you have it—a comforting bowl of vegetarian udon soup that’s ready to be enjoyed! Trust me, you’re going to love every warm, flavorful spoonful!

Tips for Success

Don’t overcook the noodles: Udon noodles should be chewy, so keep an eye on the cooking time and drain them just before they reach your desired texture.
Fresh ingredients matter: Use fresh vegetables for the best flavor and texture—wilted greens just won’t do for this cozy soup!
Taste as you go: Adjust the soy sauce and salt to your liking. Everyone has different preferences, so make it your own!
Experiment with veggies: Feel free to toss in any other veggies you love, like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini—just make sure they’re cut into similar sizes for even cooking.
Watch the garlic: Garlic can go from golden to burnt in a flash, so don’t walk away! Stir it continuously until it’s just fragrant.
Serve it hot: Enjoy your soup fresh off the stove for the best experience—it’s all about that warmth and comfort!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy: This vegetarian udon soup comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal.
Healthy and hearty: Packed with vibrant vegetables and wholesome ingredients, it’s a comforting dish that nourishes both body and soul.
Customizable: You can easily swap in your favorite veggies or whatever you have in your fridge, making it a versatile recipe that suits your taste.
One-pot wonder: Less cleanup is always a win! All you need is one pot for the soup and another for the noodles, keeping your kitchen tidy.
Flavorful: With the rich umami of mushrooms and the fragrant garlic, every bite is a delightful explosion of flavors!
Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a chilly day or you’re feeling under the weather, this soup is the ultimate comfort food that’s sure to warm you up.

Nutritional Information

Before you dive into this delicious vegetarian udon soup, here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional values. Keep in mind that nutrition can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these numbers are just a guideline:

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 350
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 60g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 10g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Enjoy knowing that you’re nourishing your body with this hearty and wholesome soup!

FAQ about Vegetarian Udon Soup

If you’ve got questions about making this vegetarian udon soup, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I hear, along with my tips to make your cooking experience even smoother.

Can I use different vegetables?
Absolutely! This soup is super versatile. Feel free to swap in any veggies you have on hand, like spinach, bell peppers, or even zucchini. Just make sure they’re cut into similar sizes for even cooking.

How can I make it gluten-free?
No problem! Simply use gluten-free udon noodles or even rice noodles. Just keep an eye on the cooking times as they might vary slightly!

Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the soup base in advance and store it in the fridge. Just cook the noodles fresh when you’re ready to serve for the best texture. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight!

What can I do if I don’t have sesame oil?
If you’re out of sesame oil, you can substitute with olive oil or any preferred cooking oil. It won’t have that nutty flavor, but it will still be delicious!

Is this soup suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember to keep the noodles separate if possible, so they don’t soak up all the broth!

Can I make this soup spicier?
For a spicy kick, add some red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha while the soup is simmering. Adjust to your spice preference for a little extra heat!

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. If you’ve got extra noodles, keep them separate to maintain their texture. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to loosen it up!

Feel free to reach out if you have more questions or need further tips. Enjoy your cooking journey with this delightful vegetarian udon soup! You’re going to love it!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing leftovers properly is key to enjoying your vegetarian udon soup later without losing any flavor! Here’s how to do it:

Storing: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. If you’ve got leftover noodles, it’s best to store them separately to prevent them from getting mushy in the broth. This way, you can maintain the perfect texture!
Refrigeration: You can keep your soup in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to label the container with the date so you know when it was made!
Freezing: If you want to enjoy it later, you can freeze the soup! Pour it into freezer-safe containers and store it for up to 2 months. Again, remember to leave out the noodles if you can—just add them fresh when you reheat the soup.

When you’re ready to dig in, reheating is a breeze:

Stovetop: Pour the soup into a pot and heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s warmed through. If it seems too thick, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up.
Microwave: Transfer the soup to a microwave-safe bowl, cover it loosely with a lid or microwave-safe wrap, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until it’s hot.

And voilà! You’ve got a quick and easy way to enjoy your vegetarian udon soup again. It’s just as comforting the second time around—enjoy every warm spoonful!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to enjoying your vegetarian udon soup, there are plenty of delicious sides and dishes that pair beautifully! Here are a few ideas to elevate your meal:

Steamed Edamame: These little green beans are a perfect appetizer—lightly salted and oh-so-fresh, they complement the flavors of the soup wonderfully.
Tempura Vegetables: Crispy tempura veggies add a nice crunch and a touch of indulgence. Plus, they’re fun to dip in the soup!
Japanese Pickles: A small side of pickled vegetables can add a tangy contrast to the warm soup, brightening up your meal.
Rice Balls (Onigiri): These portable rice balls, filled with savory ingredients, make for a satisfying sidekick to your soup.
Green Salad: A light salad with a sesame dressing can balance the warmth of the soup and add some freshness to your plate.

Feel free to mix and match based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences! Enjoy your cozy meal experience with a bowl of vegetarian udon soup and these delightful sides!

For more delicious soup recipes, check out this Chinese vegetable soup recipe or this comforting tortellini soup recipe.

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.