She Strengthens

Elevating the Humble Ramen Experience

As a self-proclaimed ramen aficionado, I’ve always been on a quest to recreate the authentic, restaurant-quality experience at home. With the average bowl costing around $11, plus tip, I knew I had to find a way to make it more affordable without sacrificing flavor. That’s when I turned to packaged ramen and began experimenting with ways to elevate it.

Choosing the Right Ramen

The first step in creating a memorable bowl of ramen is selecting the right brand and type. As a child, I was fond of Maruchan ramen, which can be found for around 99 cents per package. However, I’ve since discovered the more complex flavors of Nongshim’s Shin Ramyun and Neoguri Seafood Ramen, which cost around $1.50 per package. Buying in bulk can also help reduce costs.

Upgrading Your Broth

Traditional ramen broth takes hours to prepare, but you can easily enhance the flavor packet included with your instant noodles. Adding a spoonful of white miso paste, which can be found at most Asian markets or mainstream grocery stores, can make a significant difference. Be sure to stir it in when the water is at a gentle simmer to preserve its nutritional benefits. Stock or bouillon cubes are also great additions to have on hand.

Adding Freshness and Flavor

Vegetables are a great way to add freshness, flavor, and nutrition to your ramen. Try adding spinach, sweetcorn, or a veggie medley to your boiling broth. Crunchy bean sprouts, snow peas, thinly sliced onion, bok choy, and sliced mushrooms are also excellent options. Don’t forget to top it off with sliced scallions for added flavor and texture.

Protein Power

Adding protein to your ramen can help keep you full and satisfied. Chicken, whether leftover or cooked in the broth, is a classic choice. You can also use pre-cooked frozen shrimp or crispy sliced pork belly or bacon. For a vegetarian option, try adding silken tofu or a soft-boiled egg.

Taking it to the Next Level

To give your ramen an extra boost of flavor, try adding some crushed or thinly sliced garlic to your pot with a little vegetable oil before adding the broth. You can also use pre-minced herbs and spices like ginger to save time and energy. For added heat, chop a red chili into thin disks or add a swirl of Sriracha or chili oil. Finally, experiment with different sauces like soy sauce, sesame oil, and fish sauce to find your perfect blend.

The Final Touches

Once you’ve prepared your ingredients, bring 2-3 cups of water to a boil and add in your flavor packet and/or stock cube. Cook for about 2 minutes until they dissolve, then add in your vegetables, protein, and noodles. Cook to your liking, then serve in your favorite bowl and garnish as desired. With these simple tips, you can create a delicious, restaurant-quality bowl of ramen in the comfort of your own home.