Gyu Kaku Garlic Noodles Recipe

Jennifer Segal

24 Sep, 2023

Discover the ultimate Gyu-Kaku Garlic Noodles recipe – a creamy, garlicky delight that elevates your dining experience. Try it now!

Gyu Kaku Garlic Noodles

Publisher: Lofty Recipes
Cuisine: Japanese-inspired
Category: Side dish
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 400 calories

About this recipe

Gyu-Kaku garlic noodles are a delightful and flavorful dish that has become quite popular in Japanese-inspired cuisine.

These noodles are known for their creamy, savory, and garlic-infused taste. They're often served as a side dish at Gyu-Kaku, a Japanese barbecue restaurant chain, alongside grilled meats and other delectable options.

The noodles themselves are typically udon noodles, although variations with different types of noodles are also common. The key to their distinctive flavor is the generous use of minced garlic, which is sautéed in butter until fragrant. This creates a rich and aromatic base for the dish.

The sauce for these noodles is a blend of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a touch of sugar, creating a savory umami profile with a hint of sweetness. This sauce is poured over the cooked noodles, infusing them with its delicious flavors.

To add a final touch of creaminess and a slightly nutty taste, grated Parmesan cheese is mixed in until it melts into the noodles.

Garnishes like chopped green onions and sesame seeds are often sprinkled on top for a burst of freshness and texture. These noodles perfectly complement the smoky, grilled flavors of meats commonly enjoyed at Gyu-Kaku restaurants.

Gyu-Kaku garlic noodles are a mouthwatering fusion of Japanese and Western flavors, combining creamy, garlicky goodness with the comfort of noodles. They make for a fantastic side dish or even a standalone meal if you can't resist their scrumptious allure.

Recipe origin and background

The origin of Gyu-Kaku garlic noodles can be traced back to Gyu-Kaku, a popular Japanese barbecue restaurant chain.

Gyu-Kaku specializes in yakiniku, which is a style of Japanese cuisine centered around grilling meat, often at the table by diners themselves. The chain was founded in Japan in the 1990s and has since expanded to various countries, including the United States.

While Gyu-Kaku is primarily known for its grilled meats, they also offer a variety of side dishes to complement the barbecue experience. One of these side dishes is the Gyu-Kaku garlic noodles, which have gained a loyal following among diners.

The recipe for these garlic noodles is a fusion of Japanese and Western flavors. It incorporates classic Japanese ingredients like udon noodles and soy sauce but also introduces elements like butter and Parmesan cheese, which are more commonly associated with Western cuisine. The result is a creamy, umami-packed dish with a strong garlic flavor.

Over time, these garlic noodles have become a signature item on the Gyu-Kaku menu, loved by many for their delicious and indulgent taste. Due to their popularity, the recipe has also been adapted by home cooks and food enthusiasts who want to recreate the dish in their own kitchens.

Why try this Gyu Kaku Garlic Noodles recipe?

There are several compelling reasons to try the Gyu-Kaku garlic noodles recipe:

Delicious Flavor: These noodles are bursting with flavor. The combination of garlic, butter, soy sauce, and Parmesan cheese creates a rich, savory, and slightly sweet taste that's incredibly satisfying.
Versatility: Gyu-Kaku garlic noodles can be served as a side dish or even as a main course. They pair exceptionally well with grilled meats, making them a perfect addition to a barbecue or a flavorful accompaniment to your favorite protein.
Ease of Preparation: This recipe is relatively simple to make. You don't need advanced cooking skills, and it doesn't require a long list of ingredients. It's a great option for both novice and experienced home cooks.
Customizable: You can adapt the recipe to your taste. If you like it spicier, you can add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes. You can also adjust the amount of garlic or Parmesan cheese to suit your preferences.
Restaurant-Style at Home: If you're a fan of Gyu-Kaku or similar Japanese barbecue restaurants, making their garlic noodles at home allows you to enjoy that restaurant experience without leaving your kitchen.
Impress Your Guests: If you're hosting a dinner party or special occasion, these noodles can be a unique and impressive addition to your menu. They're sure to leave a lasting impression on your guests.
Comfort Food: Creamy, garlicky noodles have a universal appeal and are the epitome of comfort food. They're perfect for a cozy night in or whenever you're craving something satisfying.
Customizable for Dietary Preferences: You can adapt the recipe to suit dietary restrictions. For example, you can use gluten-free noodles or dairy-free alternatives if needed.

In summary, trying the Gyu-Kaku garlic noodles recipe is a delightful culinary adventure that promises a delicious and versatile dish. Whether you're looking for a new side dish to accompany your meals or simply want to savor a comforting and flavorful bowl of noodles, these garlic noodles are definitely worth a try.

What does Gyu Kaku Garlic Noodles taste like?

==TASTE

What is in Gyu Kaku Garlic Noodles?

Udon Noodles: Udon noodles are thick, wheat-based Japanese noodles that are soft and chewy in texture. They serve as the base of the dish, soaking up the flavorful sauce.
Unsalted Butter: Butter adds a creamy richness to the noodles and helps to create a smooth and indulgent sauce.
Garlic: Minced garlic is a star ingredient, providing a strong and aromatic garlic flavor that gives these noodles their name.
Soy Sauce: Soy sauce contributes a savory and salty element to the dish, enhancing the umami profile of the noodles.
Oyster Sauce: Oyster sauce adds depth and a hint of sweetness to the sauce, balancing the flavors.
Sugar: A small amount of sugar is used to provide a touch of sweetness to the dish, complementing the savory components.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan cheese is added for a creamy and slightly nutty taste, which is a unique twist in this fusion recipe.
Chopped Green Onions: These are used as a garnish to add a fresh, crisp contrast to the creamy noodles. They also contribute a mild onion flavor.
Sesame Seeds (optional): Sesame seeds can be sprinkled on top for added texture and a nutty flavor if desired.

Equipment required for this recipe

Large Pot for Boiling Noodles: Any large pot or saucepan with a lid for boiling noodles.
Strainer or Colander: A clean kitchen towel or even a fine-mesh sieve can work if you don't have a strainer or colander.
Large Pan or Wok: A large skillet or frying pan can be used in place of a wok. The key is to have a wide and shallow cooking surface.
Cutting Board and Knife: If you're not chopping any fresh ingredients beyond the garlic, you can use pre-minced garlic or garlic paste to skip the need for chopping.
Measuring Spoons and Cups: You can estimate measurements if you don't have measuring spoons or cups. It's a flexible recipe where small variations in measurements won't significantly affect the outcome.
Spatula or Tongs: A large spoon or fork can be used to toss and mix the noodles if you don't have a spatula or tongs.
Grater (for Parmesan Cheese): You can buy pre-grated Parmesan cheese to skip the need for a grater.
Cooking Utensils (for stirring and serving): Use any kitchen utensils you have on hand, like wooden spoons or metal spatulas.
Serving Dish or Plate: Any large plate or shallow serving bowl can be used to present the finished dish.
Garnishing Tools (optional): Your fingers can be used to sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions as garnish if you don't have specific garnishing tools.

How to make Gyu Kaku Garlic Noodles

Indulge in a culinary adventure with our irresistible Gyu-Kaku Garlic Noodles recipe! Creamy, garlicky, and utterly satisfying. 🍜🤤

Ingredients

8 oz of Japanese udon noodles (or any noodles of your choice)
3 tablespoons of unsalted butter
3 cloves of garlic, minced
2 tablespoons of soy sauce
1 tablespoon of oyster sauce
1 teaspoon of sugar
2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese
Chopped green onions for garnish
Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Cook the noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large pan or wok, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for about a minute, or until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.
Add the cooked noodles to the pan and toss them with the garlic and butter.
In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar. Pour this sauce over the noodles and continue to toss everything together until the noodles are well-coated.
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the noodles and toss again until the cheese is melted and the noodles are creamy.
Remove the noodles from the heat and transfer them to a serving dish.
Garnish the noodles with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.
Serve your homemade Gyu-Kaku-style garlic noodles hot and enjoy!
These garlic noodles are a delicious side dish that pairs well with grilled meats and other Asian-inspired dishes.

How to serve Gyu Kaku Garlic Noodles

Serving Gyu-Kaku garlic noodles is a straightforward process. Here are the steps to serve this delicious dish:

Prepare a Serving Dish: Choose a suitable serving dish or plate that can comfortably hold the portion of garlic noodles you've prepared.
Transfer the Noodles: Use a pair of tongs or a large spoon to transfer the cooked garlic noodles from the pan or wok to the serving dish. Be sure to include all the creamy sauce and garlic.
Garnish: Sprinkle chopped green onions over the noodles for a burst of freshness and color. If you like, add a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top for added texture and flavor. These garnishes not only enhance the appearance but also contribute to the overall taste.
Serve Hot: Gyu-Kaku garlic noodles are best enjoyed hot and fresh. Serve them immediately while they're still warm to fully appreciate the creamy, garlicky goodness.
Pair with Grilled Meats (Optional): If you're serving these noodles as a side dish with grilled meats, arrange the grilled meats on a separate platter or alongside the noodles for a complete meal. The combination of the noodles and grilled meats is a classic and satisfying pairing.

Rated: 4.9 of 5.0 from 461 reviews.

Recipe Tags: Gyu Kaku Garlic Noodles, Gyu Kaku Garlic Noodles Recipe, Recipe, Easy, Homemade, Top rated

What to serve Gyu Kaku Garlic Noodles with

Gyu-Kaku garlic noodles pair wonderfully with a variety of dishes, making them a versatile side option. Here are some ideas for what you can serve alongside these delicious noodles:

Grilled Meats: This is a classic pairing at Japanese barbecue restaurants like Gyu-Kaku. Serve the garlic noodles alongside grilled meats such as beef, chicken, pork, or seafood. The contrast of the creamy noodles with the smoky, grilled flavors is delightful.
Asian-Inspired Vegetables: Complement the noodles with a side of stir-fried or grilled vegetables, such as broccoli, asparagus, or bell peppers. You can season them with soy sauce, ginger, and garlic to match the flavor profile of the noodles.
Miso Soup: A bowl of hot miso soup is a comforting addition to a meal featuring garlic noodles. Its savory and umami-rich broth pairs well with the noodles' flavors.
Sushi or Sashimi: If you're looking for a lighter option, consider serving sushi rolls or sashimi. The noodles provide a satisfying contrast in texture and flavor to the freshness of raw fish.
Salad: A crisp and refreshing salad, such as a simple cucumber salad or a Japanese-inspired seaweed salad, can balance the richness of the garlic noodles.
Kimchi: The tangy and spicy flavors of kimchi, a traditional Korean side dish, can provide a zesty and vibrant contrast to the creamy noodles.
Edamame: Steamed edamame, lightly salted, is a healthy and protein-rich side that pairs well with many Asian dishes, including garlic noodles.
Fried Rice: Garlic fried rice or vegetable fried rice can be served alongside the noodles for a satisfying and filling meal.
Gyoza or Dumplings: Pan-fried or steamed dumplings, like gyoza or potstickers, make for tasty appetizers or sides that complement the noodles.
Fresh Fruit: Consider offering a plate of fresh, sliced fruit, such as watermelon, pineapple, or oranges, for a sweet and refreshing contrast.
Ultimately, the choice of what to serve with Gyu-Kaku garlic noodles depends on your preferences and the occasion. Whether you opt for grilled meats, vegetables, or other Asian-inspired sides, you can create a well-balanced and satisfying meal.

My recommendations and tips

Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic for the best flavor. Freshly minced garlic has a stronger and more aromatic taste compared to pre-packaged minced garlic.
Butter Quality: High-quality unsalted butter can make a difference in the creaminess of the noodles. If possible, use real butter rather than margarine for a richer flavor.
Noodle Choice: While udon noodles are traditional for this recipe, you can experiment with other noodle types like soba or even linguine for a unique twist.
Adjust Garlic to Taste: The amount of garlic can be adjusted to your preference. If you love a strong garlic flavor, feel free to add more. Conversely, if you prefer it milder, use less.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is recommended for the best flavor and texture. However, pre-grated Parmesan can also work if that's what you have on hand.
Garnish Thoughtfully: Don't skip the garnishes of chopped green onions and sesame seeds. They add freshness, color, and texture to the dish, enhancing both presentation and taste.
Sauce Consistency: Be mindful of the sauce consistency. If the sauce seems too thick, you can adjust by adding a splash of water or chicken broth to achieve your desired creaminess.
Pair with Protein: These noodles are excellent as a side dish with grilled meats, so consider planning your meal accordingly if you'd like to enjoy them together.
Serve Immediately: Gyu-Kaku garlic noodles are best when served hot and fresh. The noodles may continue to absorb the sauce as they sit, so aim to serve them right after cooking.
Customize to Dietary Needs: If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, feel free to customize the recipe. For example, you can use gluten-free noodles or dairy-free alternatives to suit your needs.
Experiment: Don't be afraid to experiment with additional ingredients or seasonings to tailor the dish to your taste. Some people like to add a dash of hot sauce or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for extra flavor.
Practice Patience: While the recipe is relatively simple, patience is key when sautéing the garlic. Be sure to sauté it until it's fragrant but not burned to achieve the best garlic flavor.

Potential ingredients substitutes

Noodles: If you can't find udon noodles, you can use other types of noodles like linguine, spaghetti, or even rice noodles. Just be mindful of differences in cooking times.
Unsalted Butter: You can substitute unsalted butter with margarine or a non-dairy butter substitute if you have dietary restrictions.
Oyster Sauce: Hoisin sauce can work as a substitute for oyster sauce if you don't have it on hand. It has a slightly different flavor profile but can still provide depth and sweetness to the sauce.
Parmesan Cheese: If you prefer or require a dairy-free option, you can use a vegan Parmesan cheese alternative. Nutritional yeast is another option for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Soy Sauce: Tamari or liquid aminos can be used as substitutes for soy sauce, especially if you're looking for a gluten-free option.
Sugar: Honey or maple syrup can be used as a substitute for sugar to add sweetness to the sauce. Adjust the quantity to your taste.
Garlic: If you don't have fresh garlic, you can use garlic powder or garlic paste. Keep in mind that the flavor may be slightly different, so adjust the quantity accordingly.
Chopped Green Onions: If you don't have green onions, you can use chives or finely chopped shallots for a similar oniony flavor.