Noodle i-d 13 Udon

What

If soba (see Noodle i-d 12) represent Japanese noodle nobility, then udon are working man’s heroes — large, white country-bumpkin noodles with a simple disposition and a generous nature. Can there be a more satisfying noodle in the world than these fat, glossy beauties? Their spiritual home is in the Province of Kagawa on the southernmost island of Shikoku, where official Udon Day is celebrated every year on July 2. Traditionally, these noodles are added to soup, but they can also be served cold and in braised dishes.