Hakata Mentaiko Butter Udon

Hakata Mentaiko Butter Udon is a delectable Japanese dish that combines the rich and creamy flavors of mentaiko (spicy cod roe) with the smooth texture of butter and the chewy goodness of udon noodles. Originating from Hakata, a district in Fukuoka known for its culinary innovations, this dish has become a beloved comfort food across Japan.

Background and History

Hakata is renowned for its vibrant food culture, where traditional and modern flavors clash in the most delicious ways. Mentaiko, originally introduced to Japan from Korea during the early 20th century, found its culinary home in Fukuoka. Combining mentaiko with butter is a relatively modern twist that elevates the spicy and salty flavors into a creamy and luscious sauce. Udon noodles, with their thick and chewy texture, make for the perfect base to absorb all the flavors.

Ingredients

• Udon noodles - 200 grams, preferably fresh
• Mentaiko (spicy cod roe) - 2 tablespoons
• Butter - 2 tablespoons
• Soy sauce - 1 tablespoon
• Green onions - 2 stalks, finely chopped
• Nori (seaweed) - 1 sheet, shredded
• Sesame seeds - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - to taste
• Water - for boiling the udon

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by slicing the green onions finely and shredding the nori. Set these aside for garnish. Remove the mentaiko from its sac and gently mix it with a bit of soy sauce to taste.

Step 2: Boil the Udon Noodles

In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add a generous pinch of salt to the boiling water, then add the udon noodles. Cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes. Use a cooking timer to ensure precision.

Cooking Process

Step 3: Making the Mentaiko Butter Sauce

While the udon is cooking, in a separate pan, melt butter over low heat. Once melted, add the mentaiko mixture into the pan and stir gently until combined. Be careful not to cook the mentaiko too long to avoid losing its unique flavor.

Step 4: Combining the Ingredients

When the udon noodles are done, drain them and immediately add them to the pan with the mentaiko butter sauce. Toss the noodles in the sauce until each strand is thoroughly coated. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of the reserved boiling water to loosen it up.

Step 5: Garnishing

Transfer the udon to serving bowls. Garnish generously with the chopped green onions, shredded nori, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. You can adjust the garnish based on personal preference.

How to Enjoy

Hakata Mentaiko Butter Udon is best enjoyed freshly made, while the noodles are still warm, and the sauce clings lusciously to them. Pair it with a refreshing green tea or a light sake to balance the rich flavors. Savor each bite, allowing the spicy, buttery, and savory notes to delight your palate. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner at home or to impress guests with its unique blend of traditional and contemporary Japanese cuisine.

For those who want to explore further, try adding a soft-boiled egg on top or a sprinkle of dried chili for an extra kick!