Name: Creamy Spinach-Scallion Coconut Udon for a Cozy Meal
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon Neutral Oil (Adds fat and helps sauté scallions.); 4 pieces Scallions (Provide freshness and subtle onion flavor.); 1 large Potato (Acts as a thickening agent for the broth.); 4 cups Water or Vegetable Stock (Forms the base of the broth.); 2 cups Spinach (Adds nutrients and color.); 15 oz Coconut Milk (Brings creaminess to the broth.); 16 oz Udon Noodles (Primary carbohydrate element.); to taste Salt (Essential for seasoning.); to taste Pepper (Essential for seasoning.); 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil (Enhances flavor with a nutty aroma.); 2 tablespoons Black Sesame Seeds (Provides crunch and visual appeal.)

As I stood in the kitchen watching vibrant green scallions sizzle, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of comfort wash over me. This Creamy Spinach-Scallion Coconut Udon embodies all the nurturing vibes I crave during a busy week. With just a handful of ingredients, this easy vegan recipe transforms into a deeply satisfying bowl, perfect for lunch, brunch, or a cozy dinner. The creamy coconut broth envelops the udon noodles in a way that’s both indulgent and healthy, making it a delightful choice for anyone tired of fast food. Plus, it’s quick to whip together and packed with nutrients, the ideal combination for my fellow home chefs seeking a wholesome meal. Ready to dive into this deliciousness? Let’s get cooking!

Why is this Udon Recipe a Must-Try?

Simplicity at its finest: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe makes cooking stress-free even on the busiest days.
Creamy Coconut Delight: The luscious coconut broth harmonizes with spinach and scallions, creating a flavorful experience that is both soothing and satisfying.
Versatile Options: Feel free to jazz it up by adding tofu for protein or spicing the broth with ginger or chili powder, catering to your taste preferences.
Health-Conscious Choice: This vegan udon bowl is rich in nutrients yet low in saturated fat, making it a guilt-free indulgence perfect for your wellness journey.
Quick & Easy: In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a cozy meal that rivals takeout, perfect for a quick lunch or a warming dinner! If you enjoy quick recipes, check out my Pepper Beef Udon for an exciting alternative!

Spinach-Scallion Coconut Udon Ingredients

For the Broth
Neutral Oil – Adds fat and helps sauté scallions; substitute with any vegetable oil.
Scallions – Provide freshness and subtle onion flavor; shallots work well if unavailable.
Large Potato – Acts as a thickening agent for the broth; sweet potato can be swapped in for variety.
Water or Vegetable Stock – Forms the base of the broth; homemade stock offers deeper flavor.
Spinach – Adds nutrients and color; chopped kale or Swiss chard can be used instead.
Coconut Milk (15 oz) – Brings creaminess and flavor richness to the broth; light coconut milk can reduce calories.
For the Noodles
Udon Noodles (16 oz) – The primary carbohydrate element; rice noodles are a good substitute but watch the cooking time.
Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning to taste.
For the Garnish
Sesame Oil (optional) – Enhances flavor with a nutty aroma; olive oil is a good alternative if needed.
Black Sesame Seeds (for garnish) – Provides crunch and visual appeal; feel free to use white sesame seeds or omit.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spinach-Scallion Coconut Udon

Step 1: Prepare Scallions
Begin by cleaning and trimming 4 scallions, slicing them thinly for garnish. Then, take the remaining scallions and chop them into thirds, setting them aside. This preparation will infuse the creamy broth of your Spinach-Scallion Coconut Udon with a fresh burst of flavor, while the garnish will add a delightful touch at the end.

Step 2: Sauté Scallions
In a wide pot, heat a tablespoon of neutral oil over medium heat for about 1 minute. Once hot, add the chopped scallions and gently sauté for 5-7 minutes. You want them to become vibrant green and soft without browning, which will lay the flavorful foundation for your broth, inviting warmth and richness to your udon dish.

Step 3: Cook Broth
Stir in the diced potato and your choice of water or vegetable stock, bringing the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, season generously with salt and pepper, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Let it cook uncovered for 25 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender, transforming this base into a cozy, creamy broth for your Spinach-Scallion Coconut Udon.

Step 4: Add Spinach
Gently fold in the fresh spinach, stirring for about 5 minutes until it just wilts and brightens. This step adds both nutrients and a splash of color to your broth. Once wilted, remove the pot from heat and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes, so the flavors meld and you’re ready to blend to a silky texture.

Step 5: Blend Broth
Carefully transfer the cooled broth to a blender, ensuring you fill it no more than halfway. Blend until smooth and creamy, creating a luscious base for your udon. Once blended, add the coconut milk and blend again for about 30 seconds until fully integrated, infusing this dish with a rich coconut flavor that elevates your Spinach-Scallion Coconut Udon.

Step 6: Cook Udon
Bring a separate pot of water to boil and cook the udon noodles according to package instructions, typically around 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, drain and set the noodles aside, ensuring they remain warm and ready to absorb the delightful flavors from your creamy broth.

Step 7: Serve
Ladle the smooth coconut broth into bowls, adding a generous portion of udon noodles to each. For the final touch, garnish with the reserved scallion slices and, if desired, a drizzle of sesame oil to enhance the flavor. Finally, sprinkle with black sesame seeds for visual appeal, completing your beautiful Spinach-Scallion Coconut Udon dish!

What to Serve with Creamy Spinach-Scallion Coconut Udon

Looking to elevate your udon experience? Discover delightful side dishes that’ll transform your meal into a feast.

Crispy Tofu Bites: Perfectly seasoned tofu adds a protein punch and a satisfying crunch to complement the creamy udon.
Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad tossed with light dressing cuts through the richness of the coconut broth, offering a bright contrast.
Garlic Kale Chips: These crispy chips are wonderfully addictive and provide a savory crunch, enhancing the overall texture of your meal.
Sesame Crusted Pak Choi: Quick to sauté, pak choi brings a tender crunch and a peppery flavor that pairs beautifully with the udon.
Spicy Edamame: Lightly dusted with sea salt and chili flakes, these irresistible snacks add a kick and healthy protein to your spread.
Chilled Soba Noodles: Serve alongside for a delightful texture variation with a dipping sauce, enhancing the umami feel of the udon bowl.
Matcha Green Tea: The earthy notes of matcha balance the richness of your creamy udon and provide a soothing beverage option.
Mango Coconut Sorbet: For dessert, this creamy sorbet offers a tropical escape that rounds out your meal with a sweet and refreshing finish.

Expert Tips for Spinach-Scallion Coconut Udon

Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh scallions and spinach for the best flavor and color. Stale ingredients can make the dish taste bland and unappealing.
Potato Choice: Opt for a starchy potato, like a Russet, to achieve a creamy texture. Waxy potatoes may not thicken the broth effectively.
Blending Safety: Allow the broth to cool slightly before blending to prevent splattering. Always blend in batches if your blender is small.
Noodle Timing: Be mindful of cooking times. Udon noodles should be slightly undercooked as they’ll absorb some broth and continue cooking in the heat.
Flavor Boost: For extra flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of soy sauce or miso paste to the broth before blending, enhancing the umami profile of your Spinach-Scallion Coconut Udon.

Spinach-Scallion Coconut Udon Variations

Let your creativity shine as you customize this delicious udon bowl to suit your taste buds.

Protein-Packed: Add tofu or chickpeas for a hearty boost, complementing the creamy broth beautifully. Cubed, crispy tofu tossed in the udon gives a delightful texture contrast and satisfying protein punch.
Greens Galore: Swap spinach for other greens like bok choy or arugula, adding variety and nutrition. Each green offers a unique flavor profile that breathes new life into your udon.
Sweet Potato Twist: Instead of regular potatoes, use sweet potatoes for a touch of sweetness and extra nutrition in your broth. Their vibrant color and natural sweetness add a lovely twist to the classic udon.
Zesty Kick: Spice up your broth by adding a dash of chili powder or some fresh ginger for a warm heat. This little alteration awakens the flavor palette and can turn the cozy bowl into a delightful adventure.
Creamy Dream: Experiment with various nut milks like almond or cashew for a different creamy effect. Each type brings its unique flavor and creaminess that can dance beautifully with the other ingredients.
Citrusy Note: Enhance the flavor with a splash of lime juice or lemon zest at the end, giving your udon a refreshing twist. This bright acidity balances the rich coconut broth, providing a refreshing contrast.
Mushroom Medley: Toss in some sliced shiitake or cremini mushrooms for an earthy flavor and delightful texture. Mushrooms not only enhance the broth but also add an umami richness that’s hard to resist.

For more exciting flavor options, try enhancing your dishes with my Gochujang Udon Noodles to heat things up or dive into a warming Spicy Coconut Curry for a dish you can cozy up with.

Make Ahead Options

These Spinach-Scallion Coconut Udon are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the creamy broth up to 3 days in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain its delightful flavor. Simply follow the cooking instructions until after you’ve added the spinach, then let it cool before blending it with coconut milk. When you’re ready to enjoy your udon bowl, gently reheat the broth and cook the udon noodles according to package instructions. For best quality, avoid overcooking the scallions and spinach during the initial cook; this keeps everything vibrant and fresh-tasting. You’ll have a cozy meal ready in no time, making your busy week a little easier and a lot tastier!

How to Store and Freeze Spinach-Scallion Coconut Udon

Fridge: Store leftover Spinach-Scallion Coconut Udon in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to restore consistency.

Freezer: To freeze, cool the broth and udon separately before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Broth can be frozen for up to 3 months, while udon should be used within 1-2 months for best texture.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw broth in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat it on the stove, then add cooked udon, warming until heated through.

Ingredient Considerations: For best results, avoid freezing garnishes like scallions and sesame seeds, as they lose texture and flavor when frozen.

Spinach-Scallion Coconut Udon Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting scallions?
Absolutely! Look for vibrant green scallions with firm, unblemished white bulbs. Avoid any that are wilted or have dark spots, as these indicate age. Fresh scallions should feel crisp and firm to the touch, adding that delightful crunch to your udon.

How should I store leftover udon and broth?
To ensure freshness, store any leftover Spinach-Scallion Coconut Udon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Gently reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain the creamy consistency.

Can I freeze the Spinach-Scallion Coconut Udon?
Very! To freeze, cool the udon and broth separately before placing them in freezer-safe containers. The broth can be frozen for up to 3 months, while udon noodles should be used within 1-2 months for optimal texture. When ready to enjoy, thaw the broth in the fridge overnight, then gently reheat and add cooked udon.

What if my broth is too thick or too thin?
If your broth turns out too thick, simply add a bit more water or vegetable stock until you reach your desired consistency. For a thinner broth, make sure to blend thoroughly and incorporate additional liquid gradually until it meets your preference. Adjusting is key to achieving the right creamy texture!

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! This Spinach-Scallion Coconut Udon is vegan and gluten-free if you choose gluten-free udon noodles. For allergens, check that your vegetable stock doesn’t contain any wheat or dairy. When serving, keep in mind that some seeds may pose risks for those with nut allergies, so garnish with care.

How can I add more protein to this udon dish?
Absolutely! For an extra protein boost, you can add cubed tofu or chickpeas to your broth while simmering. This not only enhances the nutritional profile but also lends a delightful texture to the udon. Simply stir them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking for maximum flavor absorption.