Yakisoba Noodles are a classic Japanese staple noodle. It has a slight saltiness to it with a touch of sweetness and brings great flavor to any dish. Yakisoba Noodles are easy to make and always a hit. They taste similar to ramen noodles because of their wheat ingredients. However, although Yakisoba Noodles are very similar to ramen noodles, they have their disparities.
These noodles are usually stir-fried, making them even more delicious when paired with vegetables. Typical pairings include cabbage, bok choy, onions, and carrots. And the most common proteins added are usually strips of lean pork, beef, or chicken.
While Yakisoba Noodles may not be the most popular noodles, there’s a good chance you’ll find them at an Asian food store. You’ll often find them dry or pre-cooked in a vacuum-sealed pack or packaged in water as a preservative.
Sometimes Yakisoba Noodles may not be available in your area. Or perhaps you just don’t like the taste of these noodles. Either way, you may be wondering whether there are any good Yakisoba Noodles substitutes. Here are 5 fantastic substitutes for Yakisoba Noodles that are sure to do your dish proud.
Substitutes for Yakisoba Noodles
1. Soba Noodles
Soba noodles originated in Japan and are made using buckwheat flour. As such, these noodles are considered a wholesome and nutritious option than Yakisoba Noodles. They contain a high quantity of fiber and protein and promote the slow release of sugars into the blood stream.
These Japanese favorites have an earthy and nutty taste due to the presence of buckwheat in the noodles. Soba noodles are ultra-thin and great for stir-fried dishes like chow mein. That said, these are not a great option if you have buckwheat allergies.
2. Udon Noodles
Udon noodles are comfort food for many Japanese people. They are thick noodles made from wheat flour and feature prominently in Japanese cuisine. While they are great cold, udon noodles are most often served in a hot broth with mild flavors called “kakejiru”.
Kakejiru is made from soy sauce, Japanese stock, and rice wine. This traditional dish is garnished with various toppings like thinly chopped scallions, prawn tempura, kamaboko, etc. As Yakisoba Noodles are often used in traditional broth and soup dishes, udon Noodles make for the perfect Yakisoba Noodles substitute.
Bear in mind that, as udon noodles are made from wheat, they are not gluten-free. As such, they are not suitable for people with gluten allergies.
3. Instant Ramen Noodles
This is an excellent alternative for days when you don’t have the time to cook an elaborate meal. Instant ramen noodles are always available at the grocery store. And they’re economical and easy to prepare. They can also be purchased with various seasonings adding great flavor to your dish.
Made from wheat, ramen noodles contain gluten. They are low in calories but don’t provide much nutritional value. However, they are very filling. So, they’ll do a great job at satisfying your hunger when you don’t have time to prepare Yakisoba Noodles.
4. Glass Noodles
Glass noodles are less common than Yakisoba Noodles but are most often used in Korean and Vietnamese cooking. These Yakisoba Noodles substitutes are great for soups, broths, and stir-fries. You may also find them paired with various vegetables and meats in rice rolls.
These noodles are made from the starch of vegetables such as sweet potatoes, peas, and mung beans. They’re a translucent, pale color that mimics the appearance of glass, hence the name.
Glass noodles are chewy and elastic and are best paired with sesame oil or soy sauce. And, like Yakisoba Noodles, they can be served hot or cold. With their perfect elasticity and a hint of sweetness, they make an excellent substitute for Yakisoba Noodles.
5. Lo Mein
Lo mein noodles are a Chinese noodle variety made with eggs. Despite this, lo mein has a consistency and flavor similar to Yakisoba Noodles. These noodles are synonymous with Chinese cuisine and go well in an assortment of dishes. Lo mein noodles are often paired with beef, chicken, pork, and various vegetables on broths and stir-fries.
These noodles can be made from scratch in just fifteen minutes if you have the ingredients on hand. They make for a delicious meal, especially if you’re craving Chinese cuisine. And lo mein noodles are readily available at most grocery stores.
Conclusion
Yakisoba Noodles are a classic Japanese noodle and the star of the traditional Yakisoba Noodle dish. This is a salty, savory dish with hints of sweetness. Due to unavailability in certain regions, getting your hands on Yakisoba Noodles may be a hassle. However, with the five fantastic substitutes for Yakisoba Noodles listed above, your next Asian-inspired creation is bound to be amazing.