Craving a delicious and comforting meal that's also quick to make? Look no further! This Creamy Spicy Ramen recipe is your answer. It's a fantastic blend of spicy, savory, and creamy flavors, all coming together in a bowl of deliciousness that's ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for a busy weeknight, this easy recipe is sure to become a new family favorite. Get ready to elevate your ramen game!
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- 1 red chili pepper, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 (14-ounce) can full-fat coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (or more, to taste)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon brown sugar
- 2 packages ramen noodles (discard the flavor packets)
- 1 cup cooked chicken or tofu, shredded or cubed
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions, for garnish
- Optional toppings: soft-boiled egg, sliced scallions, bean sprouts, sesame seeds
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the garlic, ginger, and chili pepper and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
Step 2: Build the Broth: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, coconut milk, soy sauce, sriracha, sesame oil, and brown sugar. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Cook the Noodles: Add the ramen noodles to the simmering broth and cook according to package directions, usually around 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Add Protein & Finish: Stir in the cooked chicken or tofu. Simmer for another minute to heat through.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve: Ladle the creamy spicy ramen into bowls. Garnish with chopped green onions and your favorite toppings. Enjoy immediately!
Tips for the Best Creamy Spicy Ramen:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili pepper and sriracha to control the spiciness. Start with less and add more to taste.
- Broth Choice: Chicken broth creates a richer flavor, while vegetable broth keeps it vegetarian-friendly. You can also use bone broth for extra depth of flavor.
- Coconut Milk: Full-fat coconut milk is recommended for the creamiest texture. Light coconut milk will result in a thinner soup.
- Noodles: Feel free to experiment with different types of noodles. Udon or even spaghetti would work well.
- Protein: Shrimp, pork belly, or even mushrooms are delicious additions to this recipe.
Variations:
- Vegetarian/Vegan: Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth. Tofu makes a great protein addition.
- Kimchi Ramen: Add a cup of kimchi for a fermented, tangy kick.
- Mushroom Ramen: Sauté sliced shiitake mushrooms with the garlic and ginger for an earthy flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 450-550
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This creamy spicy ramen is a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. The combination of spicy, savory, and creamy flavors is irresistible, and the recipe is easily customizable to your preferences. It's a great example of homemade cooking that’s both healthy and delicious. Enjoy!