Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles
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Here’s an easy saucy ramen noodles recipe that brings together a thick and flavorful sauce that pairs perfectly with any noodles. This dish is not only simple to prepare but also versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite vegetables, tofu, or mushrooms. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe will satisfy your cravings and keep you coming back for more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil creates a deliciously thick sauce that coats each noodle perfectly.
- Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to use any vegetables or proteins you have on hand, such as tofu or mushrooms, to make it your own.
- Customizable Sauce: Adjust the sweetness, saltiness, and spice levels according to your taste preferences for a truly unique meal.
- Satisfying Meal: Packed with carbohydrates and protein, this dish will keep you full and satisfied.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Non-stick frying pan
- Pot for boiling water
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowl
Importance of Each Tool
- Non-stick frying pan: Ensures that nothing sticks while sautéing veggies and helps in even cooking of the sauce.
- Pot for boiling water: Necessary for cooking the ramen noodles to the perfect chewiness without overcooking them.
Ingredients
Noodles and Base
- 2 servings dry instant ramen noodle cakes (or other noodles of choice around 140 g total)
- 10 oz extra firm tofu, veggies, or mushrooms of choice (sliced)
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 cup water (or vegetable broth)
- 5-7 tbsp soy sauce (adjust according to desired taste)
- 1.5 tsp dark soy sauce (optional for color)
- 2-3 tbsp corn starch (see notes)
- 1-3 tbsp sugar (maple syrup or other liquid sweetener, adjust according to desired sweetness)
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar (white vinegar or lemon juice)
- 1/4 tsp ground pepper
- 1/2 tbsp chili garlic sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic (minced, optional)
Toppings
- Chopped scallions (for topping)
- Sesame seeds (for topping)
How to Make Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
Mix all the sauce ingredients until well incorporated. Feel free to adjust measurements depending on your desired sweetness, saltiness, sourness, and spice. Set aside once mixed. Note: If using hot sauce, you may end up with a redder sauce.
Step 2: Cook the Noodles
Boil some water in a small pot over high heat. Once boiling:
1. Add in the ramen or other noodles.
2. Cook until still very chewy—about 2-3 minutes less than package instructions.
Step 3: Drain the Noodles
Once cooked:
1. Drain out the water or strain the noodles.
2. Optionally run them under cold water to stop further cooking.
Step 4: Sauté Veggies and Tofu
While the noodles are cooking:
1. Heat a non-stick frying pan over medium high heat.
2. Add a little oil.
3. Sauté the veggies, mushrooms, or tofu for a few minutes until cooked to your liking.
Step 5: Combine Sauce and Noodles
Give the sauce another good mix; pour it into the pan with veggies/tofu. Leave it to simmer over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened from the starch. Add in drained noodles; mix thoroughly to coat them in the sauce.
Step 6: Finish Cooking
Cook over medium-high heat until noodles absorb some of the sauce and it thickens—around 3 minutes.
Step 7: Final Touches
Taste your noodles; feel free to season with more soy sauce or sweetener if needed.
Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions if desired. Serve hot!
Now you’re ready to enjoy these Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles! Perfectly customizable for every occasion!
How to Serve Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles
These easy saucy ramen noodles are not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve them in various ways to enhance your meal experience.
With Fresh Vegetables
- Spinach: Add a handful of fresh spinach for a pop of color and nutrients.
- Bell Peppers: Sliced bell peppers provide a crunchy texture and sweet flavor.
- Carrots: Grated carrots add sweetness and vibrant color to your dish.
Topped with Proteins
- Tofu: Crispy tofu cubes on top add protein and a satisfying crunch.
- Egg: A soft-boiled egg not only enhances the dish’s richness but also adds creaminess.
- Chicken: Grilled or shredded chicken can make this meal more filling.
Garnished with Herbs
- Cilantro: Fresh cilantro gives a burst of freshness and aromatic flavor.
- Basil: Thai basil adds an herbal note that complements the sauce beautifully.
Served with Extras
- Chili Oil: Drizzle some chili oil for those who enjoy extra heat.
- Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice brightens up the flavors remarkably.
How to Perfect Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles
Perfecting your easy saucy ramen noodles will elevate your dish even further. Here are some tips to help you achieve noodle perfection.
- seasoning: Adjust the soy sauce, vinegar, and sugar to balance flavors according to your taste preferences.
- Proper noodle cooking: Cook the noodles just until al dente for the best texture, as they will continue cooking when combined with the sauce.
- Thickening the sauce: Allow the sauce to simmer long enough for it to thicken, ensuring it clings well to the noodles.
- Customizable add-ins: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables or proteins based on what you have on hand for variety in each serving.
- Serving hot: Always serve these noodles immediately while hot for optimal flavor and texture.
- Garnishing wisely: Top with sesame seeds and scallions right before serving for added visual appeal and crunch.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles
Pairing easy saucy ramen noodles with complementary side dishes enhances your dining experience. Here are some excellent options:
- Edamame: Lightly salted edamame is a healthy appetizer packed with protein.
- Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with vegetables offer a delightful crunch alongside your noodles.
- Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup makes for a comforting starter that pairs well with ramen.
- Kimchi: This spicy fermented dish adds tanginess that balances the flavors of the ramen nicely.
- Seaweed Salad: Light and refreshing, seaweed salad brings an umami flavor that complements the main dish.
- Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw made from cabbage and carrots dressed in sesame oil provides a refreshing contrast.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles, avoiding common mistakes can help elevate your dish. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Overcooking the Noodles: Make sure not to overcook your noodles. Follow the package instructions but reduce the cooking time by 2-3 minutes for a perfect chewy texture.
- Ignoring Sauce Adjustments: The sauce is versatile; don’t hesitate to adjust ingredients for taste. If it’s too salty or sweet, tweak it until you achieve your ideal flavor.
- Skipping Vegetable Prep: Always prep your veggies before starting. Having everything ready allows for a smoother cooking process and ensures even cooking.
- Not Tasting During Cooking: Taste as you go! This way, you can adjust seasonings and ensure the flavors develop as desired.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Always use ingredients at room temperature when possible. This helps with even cooking and better flavor integration in your sauce.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Duration: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Containers: Use airtight containers to maintain freshness.
Freezing Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles
- Duration: Can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Containers: Use freezer-safe bags or containers, ensuring as much air is removed as possible.
Reheating Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring in between until hot.
- Stovetop: Place in a pan with a splash of water and heat over medium until warmed through, stirring frequently.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make my Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles spicier?
You can add more chili garlic sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes while cooking to increase the heat level according to your preference.
Can I use any type of noodles?
Yes! While this recipe uses instant ramen, you can substitute with other types of noodles like udon or soba for different textures.
What vegetables work best in Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles?
Feel free to use any veggies you enjoy! Bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas are excellent choices that add both color and crunch.
Is this recipe vegan-friendly?
Absolutely! The Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles can be made completely vegan by using tofu and vegetables without any animal products.
Final Thoughts
The Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles recipe is not only quick but also incredibly adaptable. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables, proteins, and flavors. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal or a quick dinner option, this dish will surely satisfy your cravings. Give it a try and enjoy slurping away!
Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2
Description
Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles are a quick and delicious dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table in just 25 minutes. This customizable recipe features a thick, savory sauce made with soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil that perfectly coats your noodles. You can easily adapt the dish by adding your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers or broccoli, proteins like tofu or chicken, or even spicy elements for an added kick. Whether you’re whipping up a weeknight dinner or treating yourself to a cozy meal, this recipe will satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.
Ingredients
- 2 servings dry instant ramen noodle cakes (or other noodles)
- 10 oz extra firm tofu or veggies/mushrooms
- 1 cup water (or vegetable broth)
- 5–7 tbsp soy sauce
- 1.5 tsp dark soy sauce (optional)
- 2–3 tbsp corn starch
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- Minced garlic (optional)
Instructions
- Mix all sauce ingredients until well combined and set aside.
- Boil water in a pot, add noodles, and cook until chewy (2-3 minutes less than package instructions).
- While noodles cook, sauté veggies and tofu in a non-stick pan over medium heat until cooked.
- Add the sauce to the pan with the sautéed ingredients and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Drain noodles and mix them into the pan with the sauce until well-coated; cook for an additional 3 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped scallions.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (350g)
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 920mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 69g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
