Mouth-Watering Veg Yakisoba: A Healthy Twist

Vegetarian Yakisoba Recipe

I love yakisoba noodles, they’re filling, flavorful and versatile for daily lunches or weekend dinners. These hearty stir-fried noodles usually contain chicken, pork or beef and vegetables like cabbage, onion and carrots.

However, as a vegan chef, I have adapted this popular Japanese dish to create a vegetarian version full of bold flavors, colorful veggies (think bell peppers, shiitake mushrooms, cabbage and more), drizzled in a delicious savory sauce that tastes just like the genuine dish.

This veggie yakisoba recipe is perfect for no-fuss weeknight meals or meal prepping; it will satisfy both vegans and meat-eaters. In fact, sometimes I cook up double batches so that I can have leftovers throughout the week!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Vegetarian Yakisoba
Vegetarian Yakisoba

Are you looking for a vegetarian twist to the traditional Japanese stir-fry noodles? Look no further! This vegetarian Yakisoba recipe is the perfect blend of savory and sweet flavors that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

Firstly, what’s not to love about the combination of colorful vegetables such as bell peppers, shiitake mushrooms, carrot, onion, and cabbage? These veggies are not only pleasing to the eye but also provide essential vitamins and nutrients for a healthy diet.

Secondly, the Yakisoba sauce made with sugar, sambal oelek, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, garlic cloves, and toasted sesame seeds is what gives this dish its rich umami flavor. You won’t even miss the meat!

Lastly, there’s nothing easier than whipping together a stir fry noodle dish for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prepping for a busy week ahead. Plus, this recipe can be made vegan-friendly by swapping out some ingredients like the Worcestershire sauce and adding peanuts instead of sesame seeds for added texture.

In conclusion, this recipe offers a healthy and delicious alternative to those craving Japanese noodles. The colorful veggies, rich sauce, and quick preparation time make it an ideal meal option that can easily accommodate any dietary restrictions. Give it a try and prepare to fall in love with this vegetarian Yakisoba recipe!

Ingredient List

 Sizzle, stir-fry, and savory goodness! Yakisoba is always a hit!
Sizzle, stir-fry, and savory goodness! Yakisoba is always a hit!

Here are the ingredients you will need for Vegetarian Yakisoba:

Yakisoba Noodles
– 2 packs of Yakisoba noodles usually has 3 individual serving packages (usually found in the refrigerated section of an Asian market)
– 1/2 head of cabbage, cut into strips
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 carrots, julienned
– 4-5 shiitake mushrooms, stemmed and sliced
– 1 bell pepper, cut into strips
– Scallion tops for garnish
– Toasted sesame seeds for garnish

Sauce:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 tablespoon sambal oelek
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce

Tip: For a vegan version, use vegetable yakisoba and vegan Worcestershire sauce. For a gluten-free version, use soba noodles and tamari instead of soy sauce. You can also add tofu or other vegetables like broccoli or snap peas to this dish.

The Recipe How-To

 Unleash your inner chef with this easy-to-follow vegetarian Yakisoba recipe.
Unleash your inner chef with this easy-to-follow vegetarian Yakisoba recipe.

Let’s dive into the fun part – cooking! Here’s a step-by-step guide to make your vegetarian yakisoba dreams come true.

Ingredients:

  • 2 packages of yakisoba noodles or soba noodles
  • 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 carrot, cut into strips
  • 1 bell pepper, cut into strips
  • 4 shiitake mushrooms, sliced
  • 2 cups of cabbage, sliced
  • Scallion tops, chopped (for serving)
  • Toasted sesame seeds (for serving)

Instructions:

  1. Cook the yakisoba/soba noodles according to the package directions. Make sure not to overcook them! Drain and rinse with cold water, and set aside.

  2. Heat up the oil in a wok or a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add onion and garlic. Sauté until fragrant and golden brown.

  3. Add the sliced carrots and bell peppers to the wok/skillet. Continue to sauté for another minute.

  4. Next, add shiitake mushrooms and cabbage to the mix. Sauté for another minute or two until everything is tender.

  5. To fry your noodles: Add the cooked noodles to your wok/skillet with vegetables mixture along with 1/2 cup of yakisoba sauce (you can use store-bought sauce or make it at home with soy sauce, sugar, Worcestershire sauce and sambal oelek).

  6. Stir-fry everything together on high heat for about two minutes until all ingredients are evenly coated with the sauce.

  7. Serve your vegetarian yakisoba immediately and top with chopped scallion tops and toasted sesame seeds for some extra flavor!

  8. Enjoy your delicious homemade vegetarian dish!

This vegetarian yakisoba stir-fry dish is so easy to customize by adding tofu or different veggies that you have on hand! Don’t hesitate to experiment with this veggie yakisoba recipe and enjoy tasty Japanese cuisine at home!

Substitutions and Variations

 Your tastebuds are going to go absolutely wild with these irresistible noodles!
Your tastebuds are going to go absolutely wild with these irresistible noodles!

When it comes to substitutions and variations for the vegetarian yakisoba recipe, the possibilities are almost endless. You can switch up the vegetables to use whatever you have available or prefer, and even substitute the noodles for a gluten-free or low-carb option.

Instead of cabbage and carrots, you could use bell peppers cut into strips, or add shiitake mushrooms for extra flavor. If you don’t have scallion tops on hand, regular green onions will work just as well.

For a vegan version, simply use vegetarian worcestershire sauce instead of the original, and replace the Worcestershire sauce with sambal oelek, soy sauce or a combination of both. You can even skip the Worcestershire altogether if you prefer a milder taste.

If you’re looking for a low-carb option, try using zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash as a replacement for the yakisoba noodles. These options will add an extra dimension of nutrition to your dish, while still keeping it deliciously satisfying.

Another variation worth trying is replacing the yakisoba sauce with peanut sauce. This gives your veggie yakisoba recipe a unique Asian twist that’s vegan friendly. Simply whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, sugar, and sambal oelek in a bowl until smooth.

Overall, don’t be afraid to experiment with substitutions and variations in this noodle stir fry recipe to make it your own. Whether you choose to stay true to traditional Japanese stir fry flavors or veer off in an entirely new direction, there are plenty of ways to customize this dish based on your preferences and dietary needs.

Serving and Pairing

 Can you hear that sizzle? It's time to put your wok to work.
Can you hear that sizzle? It’s time to put your wok to work.

After all the hard work, it’s time to enjoy the delicious veggie yakisoba! Here are some serving and pairing suggestions that will make your meal complete.

Serve your yakisoba hot, preferably straight from the wok. Sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds and scallion tops on top for added flavor and a pop of color. These will also help cut through the richness of the sauce and add some freshness to the dish.

If you’re feeling extra hungry, serve your yakisoba with a side of steamed rice or quinoa. This will not only add some variety to your meal but will also give you a boost of energy that you might need after a long day.

For a healthier twist, try serving your yakisoba with a side salad that has fresh greens, such as kale or spinach. The added vitamins and fiber from the vegetables will balance out the meal and complement the flavors of the yakisoba perfectly.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try pairing your yakisoba with a vegetarian sushi roll or Asian-style slaw. Both options have a nice crunch that’ll contrast well with the savory noodle dish.

Finally, don’t forget to pair your veggie yakisoba with a refreshing drink to wash it down. A cold glass of iced tea or lemonade would be perfect on a warm day, while hot green tea would be ideal for colder weather.

Experiment with different ways to serve and pair your yakisoba until you find what works best for you. Whichever way you choose, you’ll surely enjoy this delicious Japanese-inspired stir-fry noodle dish!

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

 A veggie twist on a Japanese favorite - this Yakisoba recipe will not disappoint!
A veggie twist on a Japanese favorite – this Yakisoba recipe will not disappoint!

Making a Vegetarian Yakisoba dish ahead of time is super convenient for busy days. Fortunately, this recipe can be quickly and easily prepped the night before or can be stored for later consumption. You can keep your yakisoba in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to reheat, heat a small amount of vegetable oil in a wok or frying pan then stir-fry the yakisoba for 3-4 minutes over medium-high heat, adding a dash of water if needed. Overheating can cause the noodles to dry out and affect the taste and texture of your dish.

If you plan on making a large batch that lasts longer, you will need to freeze your noodles immediately. Store them in an airtight container or ziplock bag, taking care to flatten and spread them out as much as possible to avoid clumping so that they freeze evenly. The frozen noodles can last up to two months.

Once you’re ready to enjoy your frozen noodles again, defrost them in the refrigerator overnight or thaw at room temperature (15–20 minutes). Reheat by adding a small amount of water or soy sauce into the pan and cooking them over medium heat until heated through.

Remember that reheating noodles can sometimes result in sogginess, but preparing the recipe properly and following these guidelines should produce delicious results while maintaining its texture and flavor; it’ll be as tasty as fresh!

Tips for Perfect Results

 Sauce, noodles, veggies, and plenty of heat make for one amazing dish!
Sauce, noodles, veggies, and plenty of heat make for one amazing dish!

As a vegan chef, I have tried countless vegetarian and vegan yakisoba recipes. Here are some of my top tips to ensure that your dish comes out perfect every time.

Firstly, make sure you use the right type of noodles for your dish. Yakisoba noodles are traditionally used, but soba noodles or even spaghetti can also work. Just be aware that the texture and taste may differ slightly depending on the type of noodle you choose.

When stir-frying your vegetables, be sure to cut them into even strips. This will help them cook evenly and prevent some pieces from being overcooked while others are undercooked.

To add an extra flavor dimension, toast sesame seeds and sprinkle them on top of your finished yakisoba. Scallion tops also make a great garnish and add a pop of color.

If you want to make a vegan version of this dish, simply substitute the Worcestershire sauce with vegetarian Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce.

When it comes to the yakisoba sauce, adjust the sweetness and spiciness to your own preference by adding more or less sugar and sambal oelek.

Finally, don’t overcrowd the pan when stir-frying your ingredients. This will ensure that they cook evenly and get crispy rather than steaming in their own juices.

By following these tips, you’ll have a fantastic vegetable yakisoba dish that is sure to impress both vegans and non-vegans alike!

FAQ

As we approach the end of this vegetarian yakisoba recipe article, let’s take a moment to address some frequently asked questions that home cooks may have about this delicious and nutritious Japanese stir-fried noodle dish.

What is yakisoba sauce made of?

Yakisoba sauce is a delectable blend of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, achieved through the use of soy sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and assorted seasonings. Some variations of this sauce may include oyster sauce, while others may contain sriracha for extra spiciness. These ingredients work together in harmony to create a unique taste sensation.

What is the difference between soba and yakisoba?

Yakisoba is a Japanese dish consisting of stir-fried noodles. Unlike traditional soba noodles made from buckwheat flour, the noodles used in yakisoba are Chinese wheat noodles flavored with a sauce that closely resembles Worcestershire sauce.

What does vegetable yakisoba taste like?

This yakisoba dish has a tasty kick to it with hints of garlic and sesame throughout. It’s delicious and flavorful.

Is maruchan yakisoba vegetarian?

I’ve found my preferred taste, and surprisingly, it’s vegetarian-friendly. However, it may not meet the requirements for a vegan diet unlike the savory soy sauce flavor, which contains an animal-derived ingredient, beef tallow.

Bottom Line

Based on the above recipe, it is evident that vegetarian yakisoba can be just as flavorful and mouthwatering as the traditional meat-based version. It is a vegan-friendly recipe that can be easily customized to suit personal preferences. As a vegan chef, I am passionate about creating delicious food that not only nourishes the body but also satisfies the taste buds.

So, whether you are a vegetarian or simply looking to reduce your meat consumption, this vegetarian yakisoba recipe is a must-try. I hope these detailed instructions have been helpful in guiding you through the cooking process. By using high-quality ingredients and following the tips and techniques mentioned above, you are guaranteed to achieve perfect results every time.

Remember to experiment with different vegetables and spices to create your unique twist on this classic Japanese dish. Share this amazing recipe with others and let them experience the irresistible flavors of vegetarian yakisoba.

In conclusion, vegetarian yakisoba is a healthy and delicious meal that can fit into any diet plan. It is easy to make, customizable and perfect for any occasion – whether it’s a family dinner or a meal prep option for busy weekdays. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to take your taste buds on an unforgettable journey with this vegetarian yakisoba recipe!

Vegetarian Yakisoba

Vegetarian Yakisoba Recipe

A yummy vegetarian version of this traditional Japanese dish (from elliemay.com). *The toasted sesame seeds are optional but very yummy.
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Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 15 mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine Japanese
Calories 325.6 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces soba noodles
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (note, regular worc. sauce contains fish) or 1 tablespoon vegetarian worcestershire sauce (note, regular worc. sauce contains fish)
  • 2 teaspoons sambal oelek or 2 teaspoons other hot chili paste
  • 1/2 tablespoon sugar
  • 2 teaspoons sesame oil
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 small onion, peeled and sliced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 carrots, peeled and julienned
  • 1/2 head cabbage, cored and shredded
  • 4 scallion tops, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Bring a medium pot of water to a boil.
  • Cook the soba noodles in the boiling water for about 2 minutes or until they are al dente.(cooking any longer will cause the noodles to clump together.).
  • Drain the noodles, rinse lightly with cold water and drain again. (This is important so the noodles won't stick.).
  • Combine the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, chili paste, sugar, and sesame oil in a small bowl and set aside.
  • Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
  • When hot, add the onions, garlic, carrots, and cabbage. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables begin to soften and brown slightly.
  • Add the soba noodles and the soy sauce mixture and cook just long enough to reheat the noodles and thoroughly coat them in the sauce.
  • Serve garnished with the chopped scallions and toasted sesame seeds.

Add Your Own Notes

Nutrition

Serving: 254gCalories: 325.6kcalCarbohydrates: 57.5gProtein: 12.3gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 1.1gSodium: 1540.8mgFiber: 3.9gSugar: 8.5g
Keyword < 30 Mins, Asian, Easy, Japanese
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

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