If you’re craving a bowl of warmth that wraps you up like a cozy blanket, then the Miso Udon Noodle Soup with Teriyaki Mushrooms Recipe is about to become your new best friend. This dish wonderfully balances a creamy, umami-rich broth with chewy udon noodles and glossy, sweet-savory teriyaki mushrooms that add both texture and depth. Perfect for a quick dinner yet luxurious enough to savor slowly, this recipe brings together simple ingredients that transform into a soul-soothing Japanese-inspired meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its straightforward, wholesome ingredients that each play a crucial role: from the savory depth of miso and mushrooms, to the comforting bite of udon noodles, and the luscious teriyaki mushrooms that crown the soup beautifully.
- Neutral oil or vegan butter: For sautéing mushrooms to a perfect golden glaze without overpowering the delicate flavors.
- Shiitake mushrooms (rehydrated if dried): Bring a deep, woodsy umami dimension essential for that authentic soup base.
- King oyster mushrooms: Their meaty texture provides the perfect contrast to the soft noodles.
- Soy sauce (light and dark combined): Adds rich, salty-sweet undertones especially in the teriyaki glaze.
- Sugar: Balances the savory notes with just a touch of sweetness.
- Garlic: Gives the soup its fragrant, savory essence.
- Plain nut butter or Asian sesame paste: Adds creaminess and a subtle nuttiness that makes the broth lush and velvety.
- Mushroom or vegetable broth: Forms the hearty umami-packed base of the soup.
- Unsweetened soy milk or oat milk: Brings gentle creaminess without masking the flavors.
- Miso paste (white miso preferred): The soul of the broth, providing complexity and that unmistakable fermented warmth.
- Udon noodles: Thick, chewy noodles that soak up the broth and make this soup irresistibly satisfying.
- Japanese chili oil (optional): For a spicy kick if you love a bit of heat.
- Spring onions: Fresh, bright garnish that adds color and crunch.
How to Make Miso Udon Noodle Soup with Teriyaki Mushrooms Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Mushrooms
Begin by rehydrating your dried shiitake mushrooms if using them—this process enhances their deep umami character and you can save the soaking liquid to boost your broth later. Slice the mushrooms thinly along with the king oyster mushrooms, which you can cut however you like to add texture variety. This step is key to layering those savory flavors before the quick teriyaki glaze.
Step 2: Cook the Udon Noodles
Udon noodles are the comforting backbone of this dish, so cook them according to the package directions, usually boiling for just a few minutes until tender yet springy. Once cooked, drain and rinse if you want to wash off excess starch, which helps keep the broth from becoming cloudy. Divide the noodles between your serving bowls, setting the stage for a gorgeous presentation.
Step 3: Make the Teriyaki Mushrooms
In a hot skillet or the same pot you’ll use for the soup, heat neutral oil or vegan butter. Add your prepared mushrooms and let them brown beautifully on each side—they’ll develop a gorgeous caramelized flavor here. Then, stir in soy sauce and sugar, allowing the glaze to thicken and stick to the mushrooms. Set these aside; they will be the star topping that adds richness and a touch of sweetness.
Step 4: Create the Soup Broth
In your pot, warm the sesame oil or vegan butter and sauté minced garlic just until it releases its aromatic magic. Add your nut butter or sesame paste, stirring to melt and incorporate before gradually mixing in the broth and milk. The slow combination keeps the base silky and smooth. Whisk in miso paste and soy sauce, then cover and let this simmer gently for 10 to 12 minutes, allowing all the flavors to deepen. Taste and season with salt as needed to find your perfect balance.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Now for the best part: ladle the piping hot soup over your noodles, then crown each bowl with a generous helping of those gleaming teriyaki mushrooms. Add sliced green onions for freshness and drizzle with Japanese chili oil if you want a spicy sparkle. Serve immediately and enjoy every heartwarming spoonful.
How to Serve Miso Udon Noodle Soup with Teriyaki Mushrooms Recipe
Garnishes
Finishing touches are everything! Bright scallions bring a fresh crunch, while chili oil sneaks in a bold pop of heat that contrasts stunningly with the creamy broth. For extra texture, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or add a few crisp seaweed strips that will make each bite exciting and flavorful.
Side Dishes
This soup is versatile enough to shine on its own but pairs wonderfully with simple sides. Think light cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar or edamame sprinkled with sea salt for a protein boost. Or serve alongside vegetable spring rolls for a fabulous, well-rounded Japanese-inspired feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For an inviting bowl that wows visually, arrange the noodles in a gentle nest instead of just pouring soup on top. Place mushrooms artfully around or on one side and sprinkle fresh greens for color contrast. Serving in rustic Japanese bowls and adding a pair of wooden chopsticks elevates the experience, making every spoonful feel like a special occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers of the Miso Udon Noodle Soup with Teriyaki Mushrooms Recipe, store the broth and mushrooms separately from the noodles to maintain the texture. Keep everything refrigerated in airtight containers and enjoy within 2 to 3 days for the best taste and freshness.
Freezing
While the broth and mushrooms freeze well, it’s best not to freeze cooked udon noodles as they can become mushy upon reheating. Freeze your broth and mushrooms in labeled containers for up to 2 months, then thaw gently before reassembling with freshly cooked noodles.
Reheating
Reheat the soup mixture slowly on the stove over medium-low heat until just warmed through; avoid boiling which can break down the miso’s delicate flavors. Prepare fresh udon noodles separately and combine before serving to preserve that perfect chewy bite.
FAQs
Can I use other types of mushrooms instead of shiitake and king oyster?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with cremini, button, or portobello mushrooms. Each brings unique flavors and textures, though shiitake and king oyster are preferred for their pronounced umami and meaty quality.
Is this soup vegan and can it be made gluten-free?
This recipe is vegan as long as you use plant-based butter and ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free, such as tamari. For gluten-free noodles, swap udon for rice noodles or another gluten-free alternative.
How can I make the broth spicier?
Adding Japanese chili oil directly before serving is the easiest way, but you can also toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes during simmering or even fresh sliced chili for more intense heat.
Can I prepare this dish without the nut butter or sesame paste?
You can skip the nut butter or sesame paste, but the broth will be less creamy and have a milder depth. As an alternative, a small splash of coconut milk can offer creaminess while changing the flavor profile a bit.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers without losing texture?
Reheat the broth and mushrooms gently on the stove rather than the microwave to keep flavors intact. Heat noodles separately, add fresh garnishes at the end, and avoid overcooking to maintain the dish’s integrity.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly comforting and satisfying about the Miso Udon Noodle Soup with Teriyaki Mushrooms Recipe that makes it perfect any day you need a hug in a bowl. Its blend of creamy broth, chewy noodles, and luscious mushrooms feels both special and simple. I truly hope you give this recipe a try—it’s a joyful way to bring warmth and flavor to your table fast. Happy cooking!
Print
Miso Udon Noodle Soup with Teriyaki Mushrooms Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian, Japanese
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This comforting Miso Udon Noodle Soup features a rich and creamy umami broth made from miso paste, mushroom broth, and soy or oat milk, topped with glossy, flavorful teriyaki mushrooms. The soup is enhanced with garlic, sesame oil, and nut butter for depth, while optional chili oil adds a gentle heat. Quick and easy to prepare in one pot, this Japanese-inspired dish is perfect for a cozy meal.
Ingredients
Teriyaki Mushrooms
- 2 tsp neutral oil or vegan butter
- 2 shiitake mushrooms, rehydrated (or any mushrooms you like)
- 2 small king oyster mushrooms, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (light + dark soy combined if preferred)
- 1.5 tsp sugar (or more to taste)
Soup Base
- 1 tbsp vegan butter or sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp plain nut butter or Asian sesame paste
- 2 cups mushroom broth or vegetable broth (including reserved shiitake soaking liquid, if using)
- 2 cups plain unsweetened soy milk or oat milk
- 1 tbsp white miso paste
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- Salt, to taste
Noodles & Serving
- 2 servings udon noodles
- Japanese chili oil (layu), optional
- Spring onions/green onions, sliced, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Mushrooms: If using dried shiitake mushrooms, soak them in warm water until fully rehydrated, saving the soaking liquid to use as part of the broth later. Slice the shiitake and the king oyster mushrooms thinly or to your preference.
- Cook Udon: Cook the udon noodles according to package instructions until tender. Drain and rinse lightly to remove excess starch, then divide the noodles evenly into two serving bowls.
- Make Teriyaki Mushrooms: Heat a skillet or the same pot you’ll use for the soup over medium heat and add the neutral oil or vegan butter. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until browned on both sides. Add the soy sauce and sugar, stirring to coat the mushrooms, cooking for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the glaze is sticky and shiny. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Make the Soup: In the pot, heat the vegan butter or sesame oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about one minute. Stir in the nut butter or Asian sesame paste, then gradually pour in the mushroom broth (including any reserved shiitake soaking liquid) and the soy or oat milk while stirring constantly to dissolve the paste smoothly. Add the white miso paste and soy sauce, stirring well to combine. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer gently for 10 to 12 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning by adding salt if needed.
- Assemble: Pour the hot miso soup evenly over the bowls containing the udon noodles. Top each bowl with the teriyaki mushrooms, sliced green onions, and a drizzle of Japanese chili oil if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy this warm, umami-rich noodle soup.
Notes
- Use the shiitake soaking liquid as part of the broth for extra umami depth.
- Adjust sugar in the teriyaki mushrooms to your preferred sweetness.
- Oat milk or soy milk can be used interchangeably depending on your preference or dietary needs.
- For spiciness, add Japanese chili oil (layu) to taste.
- Use fresh udon noodles if available for best texture.
- This recipe is easily vegan and vegetarian by using vegan butter and plant-based milks.