1 tablespoonoyster sauce (optional but adds depth)
1 tablespoonbrown sugar or honey
1tablespoonsesame oil
1tablespoonrice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
2garlic cloves, minced
1teaspoongrated ginger
1/2teaspoonground black pepper
For the stir fry
1tablespoonavocado or olive oil
1poundthinly sliced beef, ribeye, sirloin, or ground beef works too
1smallonion, thinly sliced
1red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1zucchini, thinly sliced
1carrot, thinly sliced
3packs (about 14 oz total) pre-cooked udon noodles
2green onions, chopped
Toasted sesame seeds, for garnish
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Instructions
Make the sauce - In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and black pepper. Set aside.
Cook the beef - Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook until it’s mostly browned (2–3 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed. Remove from the pan.
Add veggies - Stir in onion, bell pepper, zucchini, and cabbage. Cook for 3–4 minutes, just until veggies are tender-crisp.
Prepare the noodles - Remove the udon noodles from the package and add them to a pot of boiling water. There’s no need to thaw if frozen. Gently stir for 1–2 minutes, just until the noodles loosen and become tender. Since they’re already precooked, be careful not to overcook them or they’ll get too soft.
Add noodles and sauce - Add to the skillet along with the sauce. Toss well to coat everything evenly. Continue cooking for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the noodles are heated through and glossy.
Finish - Stir in green onions, sprinkle with sesame seeds, and adjust seasoning if needed (a drizzle of soy sauce or an extra touch of sesame oil can balance the flavor).
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a small splash of water to bring back the sauciness.