Kitsune Udon

Colored pencil, pastel, and watercolor on  paper, 5” x 7,” 2026

This drawing is named after and inspired by the Japanese noodle soup, kitsune udon, which features thick, chewy noodles in warm broth topped with sweet and salty fried tofu. While “udon” refers to the noodle type, “kitsune” translates to “fox.” According to folklore, the fried tofu pouches in this soup are a fox’s favorite food. Additionally, the reddish-brown color of the tofu resembles the amber coat of a fox. Find some of the elements and ingredients of this tasty and curiously named dish brought to life in this little drawing.