This ramen noodle soup is warm and comforting, perfect for a chilly day. With tasty broth, soft noodles, and fresh veggies, it’s a hug in a bowl!
I love adding a boiled egg on top for that extra yum factor. Plus, you can mix in your favorite toppings or spices for a fun twist. So slurp away! 🍜
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broth: Chicken or vegetable broth forms the flavorful base of your ramen. If you’re looking for a lighter option, homemade broth is excellent. If you’re vegan, stick to vegetable broth and miso paste for added depth.
Ramen Noodles: Fresh ramen noodles offer a great texture, but dried ones work fine too. If allergic to gluten, try rice noodles or a gluten-free alternative. They all give a unique twist to your soup!
Eggs: Soft-boiled eggs add richness. If you want a vegan version, consider tofu, marinated with soy sauce for a delicious alternative. You can also skip eggs entirely!
Vegetables: Spinach is a great choice, but bok choy or kale adds crunch and nutrients. Feel free to toss in mushrooms or broccoli for extra flavors.
How Do I Cook the Perfect Ramen Noodles?
Cooking ramen noodles might seem simple, but getting that perfect texture is key. Follow these steps for great results:
- Boil water separately for the eggs first, then in the same pot, bring broth to a simmer.
- Add ramen noodles to the simmering broth, keeping track of timing (usually 3-4 minutes). Stir gently to avoid sticking.
- Check for doneness. You want them tender but still firm enough to hold their texture while you slurp!
How to Make Ramen Noodle Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 packs of fresh or dried ramen noodles
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves (or substitute with bok choy or kale)
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon miso paste (optional for depth)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Optional Toppings:
- Sesame seeds
- Sliced mushrooms
- Nori sheets
- Chili oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious ramen noodle soup takes about 15-20 minutes total. You’ll need about 7 minutes for the eggs, plus another 10-15 minutes for preparing the soup and all its tasty components. It’s a quick meal that feels extra special!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Eggs:
Start by bringing a pot of water to a boil. Carefully add the eggs and boil for 7 minutes if you want a soft-boiled yolk. Once done, remove the eggs and place them into a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. This also makes peeling easier later!
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for about 1 minute or until they are fragrant—be careful not to burn them!
3. Create the Broth:
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring it to a simmer. Add the soy sauce, miso paste (if you’re using it), and sesame oil. Stir everything together for a flavor-packed base.
4. Cook the Noodles:
Add the ramen noodles to the simmering broth. Cook according to the package instructions, which is usually around 3-4 minutes until they’re tender but not mushy. Stir gently to keep them from sticking!
5. Add the Greens:
Once the noodles are near done, toss in the fresh spinach leaves (or your chosen greens) and let them cook in the broth for another 1-2 minutes until they are wilted and vibrant.
6. Finish and Serve:
Carefully peel the cooled eggs and slice them in half. To serve, ladle the ramen soup into bowls. Top each bowl with halved eggs, sliced green onions, a sprinkle of chili flakes, and black pepper. If you’d like, add in sesame seeds, nori sheets, or a splash of chili oil for that extra flavor boost.
7. Enjoy!
Serve hot with chopsticks and a spoon to savor every delicious bite of your homemade ramen noodle soup. Enjoy slurping!
Can I Use Other Noodles Instead of Ramen?
Absolutely! You can substitute ramen noodles with udon, soba, or even rice noodles. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type of noodles you choose to ensure they’re cooked to perfection.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian or Vegan?
Yes! Simply use vegetable broth and omit the eggs or replace them with tofu for a protein boost. Using miso paste helps add depth to the flavor while keeping it plant-based.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover ramen in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove, and add a splash of fresh broth or water to revive the soup’s consistency.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
You can definitely get creative! Feel free to add vegetables like mushrooms, bok choy, carrots, or snap peas. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time so everything is cooked to your liking!