Cook Japanese soba noodles zen bowl: A step-by-step recipe
The Japanese soba noodles zen bowl is a vegetarian and eggless dish that combines the unique flavors of soba noodles with fresh vegetables and a savory sauce. Originating from Japan, these noodles are crafted from buckwheat, providing a wholesome alternative to traditional pasta. This dish offers a delightful culinary experience while honoring the simplicity and balance of Japanese cuisine. Let's get cooking!
Gather the following ingredients
To prepare this dish, you will need 200 grams of soba noodles, one large carrot (julienned), one bell pepper (thinly sliced), two spring onions (chopped), 100 grams of edamame beans (shelled), for the sauce: two tablespoons of soy sauce, one tablespoon of sesame oil, one tablespoon of rice vinegar, one teaspoon of grated ginger, and sesame seeds and nori strips for garnish.
Preparing the soba noodles
Begin by cooking the soba noodles according to the package instructions. Typically, this involves boiling them in water for about four to six minutes until they are just tender. Be careful not to overcook them as they can become mushy quickly. Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and remove excess starch.
Cooking the vegetables
Begin by heating a pan over medium heat and add a dash of sesame oil. Place the julienned carrots and thinly sliced bell peppers into the pan for stir-frying. Cook these for about three minutes, ensuring they soften slightly while retaining a crisp texture. Towards the end of this process, incorporate the shelled edamame beans and cook for an additional minute.
Making the sauce
In a small bowl, whisk the soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar and grated ginger until well mixed. This concoction serves as the dressing for the noodle bowl. Its savory soy, nutty sesame, tangy vinegar and spicy ginger create a balanced flavor profile. This dressing is specifically crafted to complement the soba noodles and fresh vegetables in your zen bowl.
Assembling your zen bowl
Divide the cooked soba noodles into bowls to start assembling your zen bowl. Top them with the stir-fried carrots, bell peppers, and edamame beans. Drizzle each bowl with the prepared sauce, ensuring a flavorful experience with every bite. Finish by garnishing with sesame seeds and nori strips, adding a delightful contrast in texture and visual appeal to the dish.
