Ramen Noodle Soup is a tasty dish that’s super comforting. It features soft noodles swimming in a hot, savory broth, often topped with veggies, meat, and a boiled egg.
Whenever I make this soup, I feel like a kitchen wizard! It’s so fun to customize each bowl with my favorite toppings. What’s your go-to addition? 🍜
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broth: Chicken broth gives a rich flavor, but vegetable broth works well for a lighter option. You can also use homemade broth for deeper taste. Always taste your broth; you may need a bit more soy sauce for the right flavor.
Ramen Noodles: Fresh ramen noodles are my favorite for their texture, but dried noodles are a great pantry staple. If you can’t find ramen, try soba, udon, or rice noodles as alternatives.
Pork Belly or Chashu: If you’re looking for a lighter option, cooked chicken or tofu can be delicious substitutes. Grilled or sautéed mushrooms can add a nice umami flavor too!
Vegetables: Spinach or kale add nutrients, but you can also use bok choy, napa cabbage, or even frozen peas. Fresh herbs like cilantro can also boost the flavors.
How Do I Achieve Perfect Soft-Boiled Eggs?
Soft-boiled eggs are a fantastic topping for ramen, and getting them just right is key!
- Boil a pot of water, then gently add your eggs. Start with cold eggs straight from the fridge and cook for 6-7 minutes.
- Prepare an ice bath while they cook by filling a bowl with ice and water.
- When the timer goes off, quickly transfer the eggs to the ice bath for a few minutes to stop the cooking.
- Once cooled, peel the eggs carefully and slice them in half. The yolk should be creamy and a bit runny, perfect for your ramen!
How to Make Ramen Noodle Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp miso paste (optional)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 2 servings fresh or dried ramen noodles
- 2 soft-boiled eggs, halved
- 1 cup cooked pork belly or chashu, sliced
- 1/2 cup chopped spinach or kale, simmered
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Time Needed:
This delightful ramen noodle soup takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 10 minutes of cooking. In total, you’ll need about 25 minutes to bring this delicious dish to your table.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Broth:
In a large pot, pour in your chicken or vegetable broth, adding the soy sauce, miso paste (if using), and sesame oil. Turn the heat to medium and bring it to a gentle simmer. This will form the flavorful base of your soup!
2. Cook the Noodles:
Once simmering, add the ramen noodles directly into the broth. Stir occasionally and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 3-4 minutes, until the noodles are tender but still firm (al dente).
3. Make the Soft-Boiled Eggs:
While your noodles cook, prepare the soft-boiled eggs. Boil some water in a small pot, and gently lower the eggs. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes, then transfer them immediately to an ice bath to cool. Once cool, peel the eggs and slice them in half.
4. Prepare the Greens:
If you’re using spinach or kale, simmer in a separate pot with a little water or microwave until tender. Drain well and set aside.
5. Assemble Your Soup:
After the noodles are well-cooked, use tongs or a slotted spoon to divide the noodles and broth between two bowls. Make sure each bowl has a generous amount of broth!
6. Add Toppings:
Top each bowl with the soft-boiled egg halves, delicious slices of pork belly, and the wilted greens. Add a sprinkle of sliced green onions for freshness.
7. Garnish and Season:
Finish off your ramen by adding chili flakes for some heat and optional toasted sesame seeds for extra flavor. Season with salt and pepper to taste if necessary.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Grab your chopsticks and enjoy your warm, flavorful ramen noodle soup. Just like that, you’ve made a delicious, comforting bowl of joy!
Can I Use Instant Ramen Instead of Fresh or Dried Ramen?
Absolutely! Instant ramen is a quick and convenient option. Just cook the noodles according to the package instructions and add them to the broth once it’s simmering. You may need to adjust cooking time depending on the brand.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian or Vegan?
Yes! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and replace the pork belly with tofu or tempeh. You can also add more veggies like mushrooms or carrots for added flavor and nutrition!
How Do I Store Leftover Ramen Noodle Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep the broth separate from the noodles to prevent them from getting too soggy. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the noodles if needed.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Soup?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your ramen with other vegetables like bok choy, carrots, mushrooms, or bean sprouts. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times based on the vegetables you choose to ensure everything is tender and delicious.
