Beef Curry Udon
Watch me make Beef Curry Udon (video available).
Equipment
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Frying Pan
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Pot
Ingredients
Udon & Beef Curry
- 6 oz thinly sliced beef — see note
- ½ onion, thinly sliced
- 2–3 cloves garlic, sliced
- 2 cups water
- 2 blocks Japanese curry blocks
- 2 servings udon
Optional Garnishes
- Scallions
- Pickled ginger
Instructions
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Finely slice the onion and mince or thinly slice the garlic. Heat a little neutral oil in a frying pan over medium heat, add the garlic and onion, and cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
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Add the thinly sliced beef and stir-fry until browned, roughly 2 minutes depending on thickness.
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Pour in the water and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the Japanese curry roux blocks and stir until they dissolve and the sauce thickens to your preferred consistency.
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While the curry simmers, cook the udon according to package instructions until al dente, then drain. Place noodles in serving bowls and ladle the beef curry over them.
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Garnish with sliced scallions and pickled ginger if desired, and serve immediately.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation.
Why Beef Curry Udon Is Always A Staple
Beef Curry Udon delivers comforting, nostalgic flavor with very little fuss. Using Japanese curry blocks lets you achieve a rich, slightly sweet curry sauce in minutes. The sauce clings to chewy udon and melds with sautéed onions and garlic for depth. Thinly sliced beef cooks quickly and stays tender, so you get a hearty bowl without a long simmer.
The Easiest Way To Make A Reliable Dinner
This recipe is ideal for busy evenings. Instant Japanese curry gives you the savory complexity of a slow-cooked stew in minutes. Thinly sliced beef browns fast and the sauce thickens quickly once the roux dissolves. Serve the curry over udon or leftover rice for a satisfying meal in under 30 minutes.
How to Make Beef Curry Udon
1. Slice the onion and mince the garlic.
2. Heat a little neutral oil in a pan and sauté the garlic and onion until softened.
3. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 2 minutes.
4. Pour in the water and bring to a simmer. Add the curry blocks and stir until they dissolve and the sauce thickens.
5. Meanwhile, boil udon until al dente and drain.
6. Place udon in bowls, ladle the curry and beef over the noodles, and garnish if desired.
7. Finish with scallions and pickled ginger for brightness.
Tips and Variations
• For more heat: choose a spicier curry block or add a drizzle of chili oil before serving.
• Frozen udon often keeps a better chewy texture; boil just until loosened.
• Add shredded cabbage or other quick-cooking vegetables for extra texture and nutrients.
• If the curry becomes too thick, thin with a splash of water to reach your preferred consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use another type of noodle?
Yes. Udon is ideal for holding thick curry, but thick ramen or rice noodles can be substituted if needed.
Do I need Japanese curry blocks?
They provide the characteristic flavor and texture; they are recommended and are available at many Asian markets and online retailers.
Can I meal prep this?
Yes. Store curry and noodles separately to keep the udon from getting soggy. Reheat the curry and pour over warmed noodles when ready to eat.
Try These Next
Looking for more quick Japanese-style meals? Try a yakiniku bowl or spicy peanut noodles for another fast, flavorful dinner option.