Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles
Here’s a delicious and quick recipe for Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles! This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something comforting. With its thick and flavorful sauce, you can customize it by adding veggies, tofu, or mushrooms. Not only is it versatile, but it also makes for a satisfying meal that’s ready in just 25 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This recipe takes only 25 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for a speedy dinner.
- Customizable Ingredients: You can add your favorite vegetables or proteins to make this dish your own.
- Versatile Sauce: The sauce is not only great for ramen but can also be used in stir-fries or other noodle dishes.
- Flavor-Packed: With a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors, this dish is sure to impress your taste buds.
- Health-Conscious Option: Packed with protein from tofu and fiber from veggies, this meal is both filling and nutritious.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Non-stick pan
- Pot for boiling noodles
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowl
Importance of Each Tool
- Non-stick pan: Prevents food from sticking and ensures easy cleanup.
- Pot for boiling noodles: A good pot helps cook the noodles evenly without clumping together.
Ingredients
For this easy saucy ramen noodles recipe, gather the following ingredients:
Noodles
- 2 servings dry instant ramen noodle cakes (or other noodles of choice (around 140 g total))
Protein & Veggies
- 10 oz extra firm tofu, veggies, or mushrooms of choice (sliced)
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 cup water (or vegetable broth (see notes))
- 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, adjust according to desired sourness)
- 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 the measurements based on your taste preferences. Set aside once mixed.
Step 2: Boil the Noodles
Boil some water in a small pot over high heat. Once it boils, add in the ramen or other noodles of your choice.
Step 3: Cook the Noodles
Half cook the noodles until they are still very chewy. You can cook them 2-3 minutes less than the package instructions so they won’t overcook later in the sauce.
Step 4: Drain and Rinse
Drain out the water or strain the noodles then set aside. Optionally, run them through cold water to stop further cooking.
Step 5: Sauté Your Add-ins
While the noodles are cooking, heat a pan over medium-high heat with a little oil. Sauté your selected veggies, mushrooms, or tofu until cooked to your liking.
Step 6: Combine Sauce with Vegetables
Give the sauce a good mix again before pouring it into the pan with sautéed ingredients. Simmer for 2-3 minutes over medium heat until thickened slightly.
Step 7: Add Noodles to Sauce
When the sauce has thickened a bit, add in the drained noodles. Mix everything well to coat in the sauce.
Step 8: Final Cooking Stage
Continue cooking over medium-high heat until some of the sauce is absorbed by the noodles and thickens further—about 3 minutes.
Step 9: Taste and Adjust Seasonings
Taste your saucy ramen noodles and feel free to adjust saltiness or sweetness with more soy sauce or sweetener as needed.
Step 10: Serve Hot
Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions if desired. Enjoy immediately while hot!
How to Serve Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles
Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles are a delicious meal that can be customized with various toppings and sides. Here are some great serving ideas to elevate your dish.
With Fresh Vegetables
- Chopped Scallions: Sprinkle fresh scallions on top for a crunchy texture and mild onion flavor.
- Shredded Carrots: Add some color and sweetness with shredded carrots.
- Sliced Bell Peppers: These add a sweet crunch that complements the sauce perfectly.
With Protein Options
- Cooked Chicken: Shredded or diced chicken can enhance the protein content of your meal.
- Eggs: A soft-boiled or fried egg on top adds richness and creaminess to the dish.
- Shrimp: Sautéed shrimp gives an extra layer of flavor and is perfect for seafood lovers.
With Crunchy Toppings
- Toasted Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle sesame seeds for added texture and nutty flavor.
- Nori Strips: Seaweed strips provide a unique umami taste and are fun to eat.
How to Perfect Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles
Perfecting your Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles will ensure a delightful dining experience. Here are some tips to make your dish even better.
- Taste as You Go: Always taste the sauce while preparing it. Adjust sweetness or saltiness according to your preference.
- Don’t Overcook Noodles: Cook noodles until just chewy; they will finish cooking in the sauce without becoming mushy.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh veggies and proteins will enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
- Adjust Sauce Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or broth while mixing.
- Experiment with Flavorings: Don’t hesitate to try different sauces like teriyaki or hoisin for varied tastes.
- Serve Immediately: For the best texture, enjoy your noodles right after cooking while they’re still hot.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles
Pairing side dishes with your Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some tasty options.
- Edamame: Steamed edamame sprinkled with salt makes a healthy and protein-rich snack.
- Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup pairs beautifully with ramen, enhancing the Asian theme of the meal.
- Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with vegetables offer a delightful contrast to the saucy noodles.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar adds brightness to your plate.
- Kimchi: Spicy kimchi provides a tangy kick that complements the flavors of ramen perfectly.
- Dumplings: Steamed or pan-fried dumplings filled with meat or veggies serve as a hearty side option.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles can be a fun and rewarding experience, but there are a few mistakes to watch out for.
- Boldly ignore the sauce: Skipping the sauce mixing step can result in bland noodles. Always mix your sauce thoroughly before adding it to the pan.
- Boldly overcook the noodles: Cooking the noodles too long can make them mushy. Aim to cook them just until chewy for the best texture.
- Boldly underestimate sauce adjustments: Not adjusting soy sauce or sweeteners can lead to an unbalanced flavor. Taste and tweak according to your preference!
- Boldly skip the garnish: Skipping toppings like scallions and sesame seeds means missing out on added flavor and crunch. Always add fresh toppings for a delightful finish.
- Boldly forget to stir: Not stirring the noodles in the sauce can cause sticking. Continuously mix to ensure even coating and prevent burning.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles
- You can freeze the noodles with sauce in a freezer-safe container.
- They will stay fresh for up to 2 months.
Reheating Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles
- Oven: Preheat at 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until warm, about 2-3 minutes total.
- Stovetop: Add a splash of water or broth and heat over medium until warmed through, stirring frequently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles.
Can I use different types of noodles?
Absolutely! While instant ramen is great, you can use any type of noodle you prefer, such as soba or udon.
How do I add more protein?
You can easily add cooked chicken, shrimp, or more tofu to increase protein content in your Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles.
What veggies pair well with this dish?
Many veggies work well! Try bell peppers, broccoli, or spinach for color and nutrition.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free soy sauce and choose gluten-free noodles to make your Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles gluten-free.
How spicy can I make it?
You can adjust the spice level by increasing chili garlic sauce or adding red pepper flakes according to your taste preferences.
Final Thoughts
Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles are a delightful dish that combines rich flavors with adaptability. You can customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins, making it suitable for any meal. Enjoy slurping away on this comforting bowl of ramen!
Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2
Description
Indulge in the comforting delight of Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles—a perfect fusion of quick preparation and rich flavors! This dish can be whipped up in just 25 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or whenever you’re craving a satisfying meal. With a thick, savory sauce that you can customize with your favorite vegetables, tofu, or mushrooms, this recipe offers endless possibilities. Each bite bursts with flavor, ensuring your taste buds will be impressed. Whether enjoyed solo or paired with side dishes like edamame or cucumber salad, this easy recipe is sure to become a household favorite!
Ingredients
- 2 servings dry instant ramen noodles (approx. 140 g)
- 10 oz extra firm tofu or vegetables/mushrooms (sliced)
- 1 cup water or vegetable broth
- 5–7 tbsp soy sauce
- 1.5 tsp dark soy sauce (optional)
- 2–3 tbsp corn starch
- 2–3 tbsp sugar (or liquid sweetener)
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1/4 tsp ground pepper
- 1/2 tbsp chili garlic sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 cloves minced garlic (optional)
Instructions
- Mix all sauce ingredients in a bowl; set aside.
- Boil water in a pot; add ramen noodles and cook until chewy.
- Drain noodles and rinse if desired.
- In a non-stick pan, sauté veggies or tofu until cooked.
- Add the sauce to the pan; simmer for about 3 minutes.
- Stir in the noodles and cook until they absorb some sauce.
- Adjust seasonings as needed and serve hot with optional toppings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 1200mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 68g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
