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Homemade Sweet and Spicy Orange Beef Udon Noodles recipe photo

Sweet and Spicy Orange Beef Udon Noodles

This Sweet and Spicy Orange Beef Udon Noodles dish is a quick, flavor-packed meal combining tender beef, chewy noodles, and a vibrant citrusy sauce.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz udon noodles fresh or frozen
  • 1 lb beef thinly sliced sirloin or ribeye
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil divided
  • 1 orange juice and zest
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce low-sodium
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp chili paste adjust to taste
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger minced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 bell pepper any color, sliced thinly
  • 1 carrot julienned
  • 2 tbsp green onions sliced thinly for garnish
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds toasted for garnish

Equipment

  • Large skillet or wok
  • Pot
  • Microplane or grater
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Mixing bowls
  • Spatula or tongs

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the udon noodles and cook according to the package instructions, usually 3-5 minutes for fresh or frozen noodles. Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and set aside.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the freshly squeezed orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, honey, and chili paste until well combined. Set this vibrant sauce aside to infuse flavors while you prep the rest.
  3. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in your skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced beef in a single layer and cook until browned on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.
  4. Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the pan. Toss in the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing until fragrant—about 30 seconds. Then add the sliced bell pepper and julienned carrot, cooking until just tender but still crisp, roughly 3-4 minutes.
  5. Return the cooked beef to the pan with the vegetables. Pour the orange sauce over everything and stir well to coat. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes to thicken slightly and marry the flavors.
  6. Add the drained udon noodles directly to the skillet. Using tongs or a spatula, gently toss and stir for another minute until the noodles are heated through and fully coated in the sweet and spicy sauce.
  7. Remove from heat and sprinkle generously with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds. Serve immediately for a hearty, flavor-packed meal.

Notes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently.
  • Substitute beef with chicken, shrimp, or tofu for different protein options.
  • Adjust chili paste amount to control the spice level to your preference.