Korean Ramen Noodles are a tasty and quick meal you can whip up in no time! They come packed with rich flavors and a little spice that makes them super enjoyable.
I love adding my favorite veggies and a soft-boiled egg on top! It’s like a party in a bowl, and it’s hard to eat just one. Who can resist those slurp-worthy noodles? 🍜
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broth: Using chicken or vegetable broth is essential for flavor. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, stick with vegetable broth or make a simple broth using water and soy sauce.
Korean Instant Ramen: Any ramen noodles work, but Korean varieties like Shin Ramyeon bring a great spiciness. If unavailable, try other instant noodle brands.
Gochujang: This gives a nice kick! If you don’t have it, a mix of chili powder and a splash of soy sauce can work as a substitute, though the flavor will differ slightly.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is my go-to for added nutrition. You can use other greens like bok choy or even kale; just chop them up well.
Soft-Boiled Eggs: They add rich creaminess. If you’re not an egg fan, try tofu or simply omit them for a lighter dish.
How Do You Get the Perfect Flavor Balance?
The key to a delicious ramen is layering flavors. Start by sautéing garlic and ginger in sesame oil to develop a strong base.
Here’s how to achieve that perfect balance:
- Heat the sesame oil on medium to avoid burning.
- Sauté the garlic and ginger just until fragrant, about a minute; don’t let them brown!
- Be sure to mix in gochujang and soy sauce thoroughly into the broth for even flavor distribution.
- Adjust salt to your taste—sometimes the broth can be salty enough.
Enjoy the burst of flavors! The soft-boiled egg and sesame seeds on top give a nice finishing touch, making it not just tasty but also visually appealing.
How to Make Delicious Korean Ramen Noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Broth and Noodles:
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 package Korean instant ramen noodles (or any ramen noodles)
- 1 tbsp gochujang (Korean red chili paste)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
For the Vegetables and Toppings:
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 inch ginger, minced
- 1 cup fresh spinach, washed
- 1/2 cup cooked chicken breast, sliced (optional)
- 2 soft-boiled eggs, halved
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds
- Salt to taste
- Optional: sliced mushrooms or other vegetables as desired
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of cooking time, so in just about 20 minutes, you’ll have a steaming bowl of delectable Korean ramen noodles!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start with Aromatics:
In a pot, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for about 1 minute or until they become fragrant, but be careful not to let them brown!
2. Create the Broth:
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, and bring it to a gentle boil. This will form the base of your ramen.
3. Add Flavor:
Mix in the gochujang and soy sauce, stirring well until everything is evenly combined in the broth. Taste and adjust salt if needed.
4. Cook the Noodles:
Add the ramen noodles directly into the boiling broth and cook according to package instructions—typically around 3 to 4 minutes.
5. Add Greens and Protein:
During the last minute of cooking, toss in the fresh spinach and chicken slices (if using) to warm everything through. You’ll see the spinach wilt beautifully into the broth!
6. Serve It Up:
Once everything is cooked, carefully transfer the noodles and broth into serving bowls.
7. Garnish With Love:
Top each bowl with halved soft-boiled eggs, sliced green onions, and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. This adds fantastic flavor and texture!
8. Enjoy!
Serve your delicious ramen hot, with chopsticks on the side. Enjoy the comforting, flavorful taste of your homemade Korean ramen noodles!
Can I Use Different Types of Noodles?
Absolutely! While Korean instant ramen noodles are great for their flavor and texture, you can use any type of ramen noodles or even udon if you prefer a chewier bite. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
What Can I Substitute for Gochujang?
If you don’t have gochujang, you can mix equal parts of chili paste and miso paste for a similar depth of flavor, though it might not be as spicy. Alternatively, use sriracha or red pepper flakes, but start with a smaller amount since they can be spicier.
How Do I Store Leftover Ramen?
Store any leftover ramen in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the broth and noodles separate if possible, as noodles can absorb too much liquid when stored together.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to add any vegetables you like, such as mushrooms, bok choy, or corn. Just add heartier vegetables earlier in the cooking process and softer ones, like spinach, towards the end to keep them fresh and vibrant.
