Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles
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Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles
Discover how to make Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles with a thick and flavorful sauce that is sure to impress! This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, gatherings, or even a cozy night in. The versatility of the sauce allows you to customize it with your favorite veggies, tofu, or mushrooms. It’s quick to prepare and offers a delightful blend of flavors that will keep you coming back for more!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Sauce: The unique combination of ingredients creates a rich, savory sauce that coats every noodle beautifully.
- Vegetable Boost: You can add any veggies you have on hand, making this dish both nutritious and delicious.
- Customizable: Easily modify the spice level or sweetness to suit your personal taste preferences.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a larger batch to enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare your Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles, gather a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking smoother and more efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Non-stick frying pan
- Pot for boiling noodles
- Measuring spoons
- Mixing bowl
- Strainer
Importance of Each Tool
- Non-stick frying pan: Prevents sticking and ensures easy cleanup while cooking the saucy noodles.
- Pot for boiling noodles: Provides enough space to cook the noodles evenly without overcrowding.
Ingredients
Here’s what you need to make this delicious dish:
For the Noodles
- 2 servings dry instant ramen noodle cakes (or other noodles of choice (around 140 g total))
For the Sauce and Toppings
- 10 oz extra firm tofu, veggies, or mushrooms of choice (sliced)
- 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
- 1-3 tbsp sugar (maple syrup or other liquid sweetener)
- 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)
- 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 desired sweetness, saltiness, sourness, and spice. Set aside once mixed.
Step 2: Cook the Noodles
Boil some water in a small pot over high heat. Once boiling, add in the ramen or other noodles of choice. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes less than package instructions so they remain chewy.
Step 3: Drain the Noodles
Drain out the water or strain the noodles and set them aside. Optionally run them under cold water to stop further cooking and remove excess starch.
Step 4: Sauté Veggies or Tofu
While the noodles are cooking, heat a non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat with a little oil. Sauté your chosen veggies, mushrooms, or tofu for a few minutes until cooked to your liking.
Step 5: Combine Sauce and Veggies
Give the sauce a good mix again. Pour it into the pan with sautéed ingredients. Let it simmer over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened from cornstarch.
Step 6: Add Noodles to Sauce
When the sauce has thickened slightly, add in the drained noodles. Mix well so that all noodles are coated in that delicious sauce.
Step 7: Final Cooking Steps
Cook everything together over medium-high heat for another 3 minutes until noodles absorb some sauce and it reaches your desired thickness.
Step 8: Season and Serve
Taste your creation! Adjust seasoning with more soy sauce, sweeteners, or pepper if needed. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions before serving hot!
Enjoy your Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles immediately!
How to Serve Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles
Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles are delicious and versatile, making them perfect for various serving styles. Whether you’re enjoying them solo or as part of a larger meal, here are some fun ways to serve this delightful dish.
As a Main Dish
- Serve the noodles hot straight from the pan for a comforting meal.
- Top with chopped scallions and sesame seeds for added flavor and crunch.
With Extra Toppings
- Add sliced boiled eggs for protein and richness.
- Include additional veggies like bok choy or bell peppers for color and nutrition.
In a Bowl
- Serve in deep bowls, allowing for easy slurping!
- Drizzle extra sauce on top before serving to enhance the flavor.
As a Cold Salad
- Chill the cooked noodles and toss them with fresh vegetables and sesame dressing for a refreshing salad.
- This variation is great for summer picnics or gatherings.
As Meal Prep
- Portion the noodles into containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
- Keep the sauce separate until ready to eat to maintain texture.
How to Perfect Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles
To achieve the best Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles, follow these tips that will help you elevate your dish.
- Choose Quality Noodles: Opt for high-quality ramen or udon noodles that can hold up against thick sauces without becoming mushy.
- Adjust Sauce Consistency: If you prefer your sauce thinner, add more broth or water gradually while cooking until you reach your desired consistency.
- Mix Well: Ensure all ingredients are well mixed before adding them to the pan. This avoids uneven flavor distribution.
- Taste as You Go: Always taste your sauce before adding it to the noodles. Adjust soy sauce, sweetener, or vinegar according to your palate.
- Experiment with Proteins: Try different proteins like shrimp or chicken if you’re not vegan. They can add variety and richness.
- Garnish Creatively: Garnishes like crushed peanuts, chili flakes, or fresh herbs can add an exciting twist.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles
Pairing side dishes with Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles can create a well-rounded meal experience. Here are some excellent options:
- Edamame: Steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt makes a healthy and protein-rich side.
- Spring Rolls: Fresh spring rolls filled with veggies provide a refreshing crunch that complements the noodles perfectly.
- Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup offers comforting flavors that pair well with ramen.
- Dumplings: Pan-fried or steamed dumplings filled with meat or vegetables add heartiness to your meal.
- Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar provides a crisp counterbalance to the rich noodles.
- Kimchi: The fermented spiciness of kimchi enhances flavors and adds probiotics to your meal.
- Tempura Vegetables: Crispy tempura veggies offer texture and variety alongside your saucy ramen dish.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet grilled corn brushed with butter is a delightful addition that brings sweetness to the table.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles, it’s easy to overlook certain details. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Not Adjusting Sauce Ingredients: Skipping the adjustments for soy sauce or sweetener can lead to bland noodles. Always taste and modify based on your preference.
- Overcooking the Noodles: Cooking the noodles too long will make them mushy. Aim for a chewy texture by cooking them just under the recommended time.
- Neglecting to Drain Properly: Not fully draining the noodles can result in a watery dish. Make sure to strain them well before adding to the sauce.
- Ignoring Vegetable Cooking Times: Different veggies have varying cooking times. Sauté them until they are cooked but still crisp for better flavor and texture.
- Forgetting to Garnish: Skipping garnishes like scallions and sesame seeds can make the dish less appealing. Add these just before serving for a fresh touch.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the noodles to cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezing Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Ensure the dish is cooled before placing it in the freezer.
Reheating Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil; heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between each interval.
- Stovetop: Add a splash of water or broth in a pan over medium heat, stirring until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles.
Can I customize my Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles?
Absolutely! You can add any vegetables or proteins you like, such as chicken, shrimp, or broccoli, making this recipe highly versatile.
What type of noodles can I use for this recipe?
While instant ramen is ideal, you can also use udon, soba, or rice noodles if you prefer different textures.
How spicy are these Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles?
The spiciness depends on how much chili garlic sauce you add. Start with less and adjust according to your taste preference.
Can I make a vegan version of Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles?
Yes! Just stick with tofu and lots of veggies as your protein sources. The sauce ingredients are already vegan-friendly!
How do I store leftovers of Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for longer storage.
Final Thoughts
Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles are not only quick to prepare but also deliciously adaptable. The thick sauce brings warmth and flavor, while allowing room for your favorite additions. Give this recipe a try and enjoy customizing it with whatever ingredients you have on hand!
Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves: 2
Description
Indulge in the delightful simplicity of Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles, a quick and satisfying dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings. This recipe features a rich, savory sauce that clings to the noodles, making each bite a burst of flavor. With just 25 minutes of preparation, you can customize your bowl with your choice of veggies, tofu, or mushrooms for a nutritious twist. Whether served hot or as a refreshing cold salad, this versatile dish is sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 2 servings dry instant ramen noodle cakes (about 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 other sweetener)
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar (or lemon juice)
- 1/4 tsp ground pepper
- 1/2 tbsp chili garlic sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- Optional: minced garlic, chopped scallions, sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Mix all sauce ingredients in a bowl until well combined; set aside.
- Boil water in a pot and cook noodles for about 2-3 minutes less than package instructions.
- Drain noodles and rinse under cold water if desired.
- In a non-stick pan, sauté selected veggies/tofu until cooked.
- Pour the prepared sauce over sautéed ingredients and simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
- Add noodles to the pan and mix well to coat them in the sauce.
- Cook together for another 3 minutes until heated through and absorbed.
- Adjust seasoning as needed and serve garnished with scallions and sesame seeds.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1/2 of the recipe (about 350g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 980mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
