Recipe by Naslie Brock Khan @Halaal_asian_delights 

Yakisoba is a popular, yet versatile Japanese stir-fried noodle dish made with wheat noodles, vegetables, and meat or seafood, all seasoned with a savoury-sweet sauce.

This dish originated from Chinese Chow mein but evolved into a distinctly Japanese creation with its own unique flavours and variations.

Feel free to customize it with your favourite vegetables and protein options.

Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences and enjoy this flavourful and satisfying meal!

Prep time and cook time 25-30 mins.

Serves 2-3

INGREDIENTS 

• 200g Yakisoba noodles (or substitute with ramen noodles or spaghetti)
• 200g thinly sliced chicken breast or thigh, or shrimp (optional)
• 1 onion thinly sliced.
• 1 carrot, julienned.
• 1 bell pepper thinly sliced.
• 2 cups shredded cabbage.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced.
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Yakisoba sauce (you can make your own or use store-bought):
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• ¼ cup water

Optional Toppings:

• Bonito flakes (katsuobushi)
• Aonori (dried green seaweed flakes)
• Pickled ginger
• Mayonnaise
• Sesame seeds

METHOD

• If using packaged Yakisoba noodles, follow the instructions on the package to cook them until al dente. Drain and set aside.
• If using other noodles like ramen or spaghetti, cook according to package instructions.
• In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, oyster sauce (if using), ketchup, sugar, and water until well combined. Set aside.

Stir-Fry: 

• Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken, shrimp (if using), or tofu, and cook until browned and cooked through.
• Add the sliced onion, julienned carrot, sliced bell pepper, shredded cabbage, and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
• Add the cooked Yakisoba noodles to the skillet, along with the prepared Yakisoba sauce. Toss everything together until the noodles and vegetables are evenly coated with the sauce.
• Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until heated through.
• Divide the Yakisoba among serving plates or bowls. Garnish with optional toppings such as bonito flakes, aonori, pickled ginger, mayonnaise, and sesame seeds, if desired.
• Serve the Yakisoba hot and enjoy the delicious flavours of this classic Japanese dish!