8-10ouncepackage soba noodlesor noodle of your choice
2tablespoonscoconut or vegetable oil
1/2poundshiitakes and/or oyster mushrooms
1large carrotjulienned
1Tablespoongingerfinely-minced
1teaspoongarlicfinely-minced
2scallionsthinly-sliced (plus more to garnish)
1red chiliseeded and thinly sliced (optional)
2Tablespoonstoasted sesame oil
Black and/or white sesame seedsto garnish
Crushed white pepperoptional
For beef or chickenif using
*1/2 pound rib-eye or flank steakor 2 small boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced very thin
salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
In a small bowl, whisk the soy sauce, mirin, rice vinegar, sriracha and coconut sugar. Set aside.
Cook the soba noodles according to the package instructions.
Immediately drain in a colander set in the sink, rinse and wash under cold running water, until water runs clear and noodles are completely cooled, and let drain again thoroughly. Transfer to a large serving bowl and a few teaspoons sesame oil if not using right away.
In a sauté pan or wok, heat the coconut oil over high heat. When the oil is hot, but not smoking, add mushrooms with a pinch of salt, stirring often, until tender, 2-3 minutes.
Add the carrots, ginger, garlic, scallions and red chili (if using) and cook for 1-2 minutes more.
Turn the heat down to low and add the soy sauce mixture, tossing everything together until well mixed. Remove from heat and add to prepared noodle bowl.
Add the sesame oil and mix well. Top with sesame seeds, crushed white pepper (if using) and remaining green onions.
Serve right away with beef or chicken on the side, if desired.
Prepare beef or chicken (if using)
In a sauté pan or wok, heat 1 tablespoon coconut oil over high heat. When the oil is hot, add the beef (or chicken) and a pinch of salt and pepper and cook for 2 minutes on each side. Cook in two batches, then transfer to a plate.
Notes
Adapted from the Best Cookbook Ever via Food RepublicIf you wish to have this dish hot, add the prepared soba noodles to the pan of cooked stir-fried veggies, heat through over medium heat for a few minutes, and serve immediately.