Sesame Scallion Chicken Udon with Thai Basil is a tasty fusion dish that combines some of the best Asian culinary traditions. It features fresh, chewy udon noodles, savory ground chicken, aromatic herbs, and a vibrant, flavorful sauce. The incorporation of Thai basil adds an unexpected twist, elevating the overall taste profile. The dish offers vibrant and varied textures, from the chewy udon to the crunchy vegetables, making it an exciting and memorable meal for any occasion.
The preparation of this dish begins with the sauce, a blend of soy sauce, fish sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and brown sugar. This combination creates a sweet, salty, tangy base that perfectly complements the other ingredients.
Next, ground chicken is cooked in sesame oil, imparting a rich, nutty aroma that permeates the kitchen. The chicken is seasoned with salt and ground black pepper and browned perfectly, adding a savory element. The use of sesame oil not only enhances the flavor of the chicken but also ties in with the sesame seeds used as a garnish later on.
Carrots, scallions, garlic, and ginger are sautéed together, creating a colorful and aromatic vegetable medley. The carrots provide a slight sweetness and crunch, while the scallions add a sharp, fresh flavor. Garlic and ginger infuse the dish with their distinctive warmth and spiciness, rounding out the vegetable component.
Known for its anise-like flavor and fragrant aroma, Thai basil adds a unique twist that sets this dish apart from traditional udon recipes. The basil is chopped and stirred into the dish just before adding the sauce, allowing its fresh, herbal notes to shine through.
Fresh udon noodles are then added directly to the skillet. Unlike dried noodles, fresh udon has a unique, chewy texture that absorbs the sauce beautifully. The noodles are tossed with the vegetables and chicken, allowing them to soak up all the delicious flavors from the sauce. Adding chicken broth ensures the noodles remain moist and flavorful, preventing them from sticking together and providing an extra layer of depth.
To finish, the dish is garnished with toasted sesame seeds, adding a final layer of flavor and a pleasing crunch. Lime wedges are served on the side, offering a burst of citrus that can be squeezed over the noodles for a refreshing contrast.
The combination of fresh ingredients, vibrant flavors, and varied textures makes Sesame Scallion Chicken Udon with Thai Basil a standout dish that is both satisfying and delightful. Its versatility is its strength, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This dish showcases the richness and adaptability of Asian cuisine, whether you are a seasoned cook or a beginner. Whether you are a seasoned cook or a beginner, this dish will inspire and become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
Sesame Scallion Chicken Udon with Thai Basil
4
servings20
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minutesSesame Scallion Chicken Udon with Thai Basil is a delightful fusion dish featuring fresh udon noodles, ground chicken, and aromatic herbs tossed in a savory, flavorful sauce. The unique addition of Thai basil provides an unexpected twist, elevating the dish with its anise-like flavor and fresh, herbal notes.
Ingredients
12 ounces fresh udon noodles
1 pound ground chicken
2 tablespoons sesame oil
2 large carrots, julienned
1 bunch scallions, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
3 cloves of garlic, minced
1/2 cup thai basil, chopped
1 tablespoon ginger, grated
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon fish sauce
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 cup chicken broth
to taste, salt and ground black pepper
for garnish, toasted sesame seeds
for serving, lime wedges
Directions
- Prepare the Sauce:
Combine the soy sauce, fish sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and chicken broth in a small bowl. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and set aside. - Cook the Chicken:
Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground chicken, season with salt and ground black pepper, and cook until browned, 4-5 minutes. - Sauté Vegetables:
Add the remaining tablespoon of sesame oil along with the carrots and scallions. Saute for 3-4 minutes until tender. - Add the Aromatics:
Add the garlic and ginger to the skillet, and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the chopped Thai basil to the skillet, stirring to incorporate it evenly throughout the dish. - Add Noodles and Sauce:
Add the udon noodles directly to the skillet with the vegetables and chicken. Pour the sauce mixture and the chicken broth over the noodles and toss well to combine. Cook for 4-5 minutes, allowing the noodles to absorb the flavors and heat through. - Serve:
Divide the sesame scallion chicken udon among serving bowls. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and extra chopped scallion. Serve with lime wedges on the side for a fresh citrus kick.
Notes
- Toasting Sesame Seeds: Toast sesame seeds in a dry skillet over low heat, stirring constantly, until they turn golden brown and emit a nutty aroma, ensuring they remain light and delicate for garnishing purposes.