Types of Japanese Noodles

Japanese cuisine offers a rich tapestry of noodle varieties, each with distinct characteristics that make them suitable for specific dishes.

While Yunion WA Enterprises produces our own Japanese-style noodles (which are specifically designed for stir-frying), we thought you might enjoy learning about the broader world of Japanese noodles.

Yunion's Japanese Noodles

Traditional Japanese Noodle Types

Ramen

Ramen noodles are wheat-based, typically thin to medium thickness, and contain kansui (alkaline water), which gives them their distinctive yellow colour and springy texture. They're most commonly served in rich broths ranging from miso and shoyu (soy sauce) to tonkotsu (pork bone) varieties.

Soba

Made primarily from buckwheat flour, soba noodles have a distinctive nutty flavour and slightly grainy texture. They can be served hot in broth or chilled with a dipping sauce. Their earthy taste makes them perfect for simple preparations where the noodle itself is the star.

Udon

These thick, chewy wheat noodles are known for their substantial texture and mild flavour. Udon absorbs the flavours of broths and sauces beautifully, making them versatile for both soup dishes and stir-fries. They're particularly comforting in hot dashi-based broths during cooler months.

Somen

Extremely thin wheat noodles that cook in seconds, somen are traditionally served cold with a light dipping sauce during summer. Their delicate nature makes them refreshing and easy to eat when the weather is hot.

Yunion's Japanese Noodles

Our Japanese noodles differ from traditional Japanese varieties like udon. Yunion's Japanese noodles are:

• Slightly thinner than our Hokkien noodles

• Distinctly chewy with a satisfying bounce

• Specifically formulated for stir-frying

• Excellent at absorbing sauces while maintaining their texture

They work beautifully in dishes like yakisoba (Japanese stir-fried noodles) and other pan-fried noodle creations where you want a noodle that holds up well to high-heat cooking methods.

Cooking Tips for Japanese-Style Noodles

When working with Yunion's Japanese noodles:

1. Boil for just 1-2 minutes until al dente – they'll continue cooking in your stir-fry

2. Rinse briefly under cold water to stop the cooking process if not using immediately

3. Add to your stir-fry when other ingredients are nearly cooked

4. Toss frequently to ensure even sauce distribution

For the best stir-fry results, have all ingredients prepped and ready before cooking, as Japanese-style stir-fries typically come together quickly over high heat.

Japanese Noodles Storage Advice

Fresh Yunion Japanese noodles should be kept refrigerated and used within their use-by date for optimal texture and flavour. If you need to extend their life slightly, they can be frozen, though this may affect the texture somewhat upon thawing.

Our Japanese noodles are perfect for quick weeknight meals and creative fusion dishes, offering a versatile base for countless delicious combinations. Take a look at our offerings today!