Slow Cooker Beef and Udon Noodle Soup

Name: Slow Cooker Beef and Udon Noodle Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 480 min
Total time: 500 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Quebecois
Ingredients: 500 g beef chuck (cut into 1-inch cubes); 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 onion (chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 carrot (sliced); 1 red bell pepper (sliced); 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger (sliced); 6 cups beef broth (low sodium); 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 400 g fresh udon noodles; 2 green onions (sliced, for garnish); 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)

500 min 6 servings Easy

All Recipes

A comforting and hearty beef and udon noodle soup made effortlessly in your slow cooker.

Prep

20 min

Cook

480 min

Total

500 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Slow Cooker Beef and Udon Noodle Soup is the perfect remedy for chilly days or when you're craving something warm and nourishing. This dish combines tender beef, savoury broth, and chewy udon noodles, all harmoniously cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. This recipe simplifies the process of making a traditional soup by letting your slow cooker do the heavy lifting. The long, gentle cooking time allows the flavours to meld beautifully, resulting in a rich and satisfying meal. Whether you're familiar with udon noodles or trying them for the first time, this soup is sure to become a favourite.

Instructions

Sear the beef

In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and sear until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Transfer to the slow cooker.

Pro tip: Browning the beef enhances the flavour of the soup.

Prepare the aromatics

In the same skillet, add the onion, garlic, carrot, red bell pepper, and ginger. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are slightly softened. Transfer to the slow cooker.

Pro tip: Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the skillet for added flavour.

Add liquids and seasonings

Pour the beef broth, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and brown sugar into the slow cooker. Stir to combine the ingredients.

Pro tip: Adjust the soy sauce to taste if you prefer a saltier soup.

Cook the soup

Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the beef is tender.

Pro tip: For best results, avoid lifting the lid during cooking to maintain a consistent temperature.

Add the noodles

About 15 minutes before serving, add the fresh udon noodles to the slow cooker. Stir gently to incorporate them into the soup.

Pro tip: If using dried udon noodles, cook them separately according to package instructions and add just before serving.

Serve the soup

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot.

Pro tip: Add a dash of sesame oil for extra aroma before serving.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Use fresh udon noodles for the best texture.
Brown the beef before adding it to the slow cooker for extra depth of flavour.
Adjust the seasoning to taste before serving.
Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds for a pop of freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are udon noodles?

Udon noodles are thick, chewy Japanese noodles made from wheat flour, water, and salt.

Can I use dried udon noodles?

Yes, you can use dried udon noodles. Cook them according to package instructions and add them to the soup just before serving.

How long does the soup take to cook?

The soup cooks for 8 hours on low in the slow cooker.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

While the soup can be frozen, the texture of the udon noodles may change. It's best enjoyed fresh or stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, feel free to add vegetables like mushrooms, bok choy, or spinach to customize the soup to your taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Slow Cooker Beef and Udon Noodle Soup hot, garnished with freshly chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Pair it with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple green salad for a complete meal. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the soup if needed.

Nutrition per serving

350

Calories

25g

Protein

12g

Fat

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