Hokkaido Udon Noodles

Introduction to Hokkaido Udon Noodles

Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost island, is renowned for its stunning landscapes and diverse cuisine. Udon noodles, a staple in Japanese culinary culture, have found a unique interpretation in Hokkaido. Known for their thick, chewy texture, these noodles are made from simple ingredients like flour, salt, and water. The Hokkaido variety often incorporates local flavors such as seafood, given the region's proximity to rich fishing grounds.

Ingredients for Hokkaido Udon Noodles

• Flour - 500g
• Salt - 20g
• Water - 250ml
• Kombu Dashi - 1 liter
• Soy Sauce - 50ml
• Mirin - 30ml
• Sake - 30ml
• Shrimp - 200g
• Mushrooms - 100g, preferably shiitake or maitake
• Spring Onions - 2 stems
• Ginger - 1 tablespoon, grated
• Nori - for garnish

Preparing the Udon Dough

1. Begin by combining the flour and salt in a large bowl.
2. Slowly add the water, mixing with your hand until the ingredients come together in a dough.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for at least one hour.

Rolling and Cutting the Noodles

1. Once rested, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
2. Use a sharp knife to cut the dough into 1/4 inch wide noodles.
3. Lightly dust the noodles with flour to prevent sticking.

Cooking the Udon Noodles

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add a pinch of salt.
2. Cook the noodles for 8-10 minutes or until they float to the surface. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. For precise timing, consider using a cooking timer.
3. Drain and rinse the noodles under cold water to remove excess starch.

Preparing the Broth and Toppings

Broth

1. In a saucepan, combine the kombu dashi, soy sauce, mirin, and sake.
2. Bring to a gentle simmer and add the grated ginger for additional flavor.

Toppings

1. In a separate pan, sauté the mushrooms until tender.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and cooked through.

Assembling the Dish

1. Place a serving of noodles in a bowl.
2. Ladle the hot broth over the noodles.
3. Top with cooked shrimp, mushrooms, and sliced spring onions.
4. Garnish with strips of nori.

Enjoying Hokkaido Udon Noodles

Hokkaido Udon Noodles are best enjoyed hot, soaking in the aromatic broth. The umami-rich flavors from the kombu dashi and toppings offer a comforting meal, perfect for cold days or when seeking a taste of Japanese tradition.

Pair this dish with a light sake for a complete dining experience that honors Hokkaido's rich culinary heritage.

We hope you enjoy making and savoring this dish as much as its historical roots have delighted many over centuries in Japan.