Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles

Here’s an easy saucy ramen noodles recipe with a thick and flavourful sauce! Perfect for weeknight dinners or a cozy weekend meal, this dish is not only simple but also customizable. You can add your favorite veggies, tofu, or mushrooms, making it a versatile choice for any occasion. Plus, the sauce can double as a tasty stir-fry base, ensuring you’ll want to slurp these noodles again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 25 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Customizable: Add any veggies or proteins you like; it’s perfect for using up what you have on hand!
• Flavorful Sauce: The rich and thick sauce enhances every bite, ensuring maximum flavor in every slurp.
• Healthy Option: With nutritious ingredients like tofu and fresh vegetables, this dish is both satisfying and wholesome.
• Versatile Use: Enjoy it as is or use the sauce for other stir-fries; the possibilities are endless!

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smoother, gather the necessary tools before starting. Having everything in place will help you whip up this easy saucy ramen noodles dish without any hassle.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Strainer
• Non-stick frying pan
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the noodles evenly without overcrowding them.
• Non-stick frying pan: Prevents sticking when sautéing veggies and mixing in the sauce.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining all the sauce ingredients smoothly.

Ingredients

• 2 servings dry instant ramen noodle cakes (or other noodles of choice (around 140 g total))
• 10 oz extra firm tofu, veggies, or mushrooms of choice (sliced)
• 1 cup water (or vegetable broth (see notes))
• 5-7 tbsp soy sauce (adjust according to desired taste)
• 1.5 tsp dark soy sauce (optional for colour)
• 2-3 tbsp corn starch (see notes)
• 1-3 tbsp sugar (maple syrup, or other liquid sweetener, adjust according to desired sweetness)
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar (white vinegar, or lemon juice, adjust according to desired sourness)
• 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. Adjust measurements based on your taste preferences—whether you like it sweeter or spicier. Set aside once mixed.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

Boil water in a large pot over high heat. Once boiling, add in the ramen noodles.

Step 3: Half Cook the Noodles

Cook the noodles until they are still very chewy—about 2–3 minutes less than package instructions. This prevents overcooking later.

Step 4: Drain and Rinse the Noodles

Drain out the water or strain the noodles. Optionally rinse them under cold water to stop further cooking and remove excess starch.

Step 5: Sauté Your Protein and Veggies

While noodles are cooking, heat a non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Add a little oil and sauté your chosen veggies, mushrooms, or tofu until cooked to your liking.

Step 6: Add Sauce to Pan

Give your sauce another good mix to ensure no starch is stuck at the bottom. Pour it into the pan with sautéed ingredients. Simmer for about 2–3 minutes until thickened.

Step 7: Combine Noodles with Sauce

Once the sauce has slightly thickened, add in your drained noodles to the pan. Mix well so that all noodles are coated in that delicious sauce.

Step 8: Final Cooking

Cook everything together over medium-high heat for about three minutes until noodles absorb some sauce. Taste test and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 9: Serve Hot

Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions if desired. Enjoy your easy saucy ramen noodles immediately while hot!

How to Serve Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles

Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles are delicious on their own, but you can enhance your meal with a variety of toppings and side dishes. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Add Fresh Vegetables

• Chopped Scallions: Sprinkle some chopped scallions on top for a fresh crunch.
• Sliced Avocado: Add creamy avocado slices for richness and extra nutrients.

Include Protein Options

• Grilled Chicken: Top your ramen with grilled chicken slices for added protein.
• Fried Egg: A soft-boiled or fried egg can bring a delightful richness to the dish.

Garnish Creatively

• Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds add a nutty flavor and appealing texture.
• Chili Flakes: For those who enjoy spice, sprinkle chili flakes over the noodles for an extra kick.

Pair with Broth

• Vegetable Broth: Serve your noodles in a bowl of warm vegetable broth to create a comforting soup-style dish.

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How to Perfect Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles

Perfecting your Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best result.

• Adjust Sauce Ingredients: Start with the recommended amounts but feel free to tweak them based on your taste preferences.
• Don’t Overcook Noodles: Ensure you cook the noodles just enough so they remain chewy after mixing with the sauce.
• Use Cold Water Rinse: Rinsing cooked noodles under cold water helps stop the cooking process and removes excess starch.
• Keep Stirring During Cooking: Continuously stir the noodles in the sauce to ensure even coating and prevent sticking.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles

Pairing side dishes with Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles can make for a more satisfying meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Edamame: These steamed soybeans are nutritious and provide a nice contrast in texture.
2. Vegetable Spring Rolls: Crunchy spring rolls filled with fresh veggies add a delightful lightness.
3. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup complements the ramen’s flavors beautifully.
4. Kimchi: This fermented side adds spice and tang, enhancing the overall meal experience.
5. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad offers a crisp and light contrast to the saucy noodles.
6. Gyoza (Dumplings): Pan-fried or steamed gyoza pairs perfectly with ramen for an authentic touch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles, avoiding common errors can lead to a better dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the noodles: Cooking the noodles for too long can make them mushy. Always follow the package instructions but reduce the cooking time slightly when preparing them for the sauce.
• Not adjusting the sauce: Every palate is different. Failing to taste and adjust the sauce ingredients can lead to unbalanced flavors. Make sure to taste as you go and tweak the soy sauce, sugar, and vinegar according to your preference.
• Skipping cold water rinse: Neglecting to rinse the noodles under cold water can result in a sticky clump. Rinse them after draining to stop cooking and remove excess starch.
• Ignoring vegetable cooking times: Different veggies have different cooking times. Not taking this into account may leave some undercooked while others are overdone. Cook vegetables separately based on their required times or add them in stages.
• Forgetting garnishes: Garnishes like scallions and sesame seeds enhance both flavor and presentation. Don’t skip these final touches; they make your dish visually appealing and add extra taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles

• Freezing is not recommended as it may affect noodle texture.
• If necessary, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month.

Reheating Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place noodles in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer noodles to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until heated evenly.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water or broth to a pan. Heat over medium until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles.

Can I use other types of noodles for Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles?

Yes! You can substitute instant ramen with any type of noodle you prefer, such as udon or rice noodles.

How can I customize Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles?

You can add various vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or carrots, as well as proteins like chicken or beef, depending on your taste.

Is it possible to make Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply use vegetable broth instead of water and ensure all sauces are plant-based.

What should I do if my sauce is too thick?

If your sauce becomes too thick while cooking, you can add a little water or broth gradually until it reaches your desired consistency.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free soy sauce and choose gluten-free noodles to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Final Thoughts

Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles are not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor. This versatile recipe allows for endless customization options; feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables or proteins. Try making it today and enjoy a delicious meal that you can tailor just for you!