Spicy Miso Ramen
Warm up with a delightful bowl of Spicy Miso Ramen, a dish that embodies the essence of comfort food with a kick! This recipe marries rich umami flavors from creamy miso broth with the earthy notes of shiitake mushrooms, all perfectly complemented by tender ramen noodles. While traditional ramen recipes can be time-consuming, this streamlined version allows you to savor deep, fulfilling flavors in just 45 minutes. Ideal for chilly evenings, it promises to nourish both body and soul.
Ingredients
- For the Broth:
- 2 tablespoons oil, divided (can use vegetable or sesame oil for added flavor)
- ½ pound ground chicken or tofu (for a vegetarian option)
- 8 ounces shiitake mushrooms, sliced (or your preferred mushrooms)
- 1 shallot, minced (can substitute with onion if unavailable)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced (adjust according to taste)
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated (fresh ginger adds a nice zing)
- 7 cups broth (choose chicken or vegetable based on dietary preferences)
- 4 tablespoons white miso paste (for a creamy texture and rich flavor)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (adds saltiness and depth)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (for nutty undertones)
- 1 tablespoon chili oil (adjust according to your spice tolerance)
- ¾ pound dry ramen noodles (look for fresh or whole grain noodles for a healthier option)
Directions
- Prepare the Protein:
- In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the ground chicken or tofu, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, transfer to a plate and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- In the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Toss in the sliced shiitake mushrooms and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they are tender.
- Add the minced shallot, garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Make the Broth:
- Pour in the broth, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Allow it to simmer for about 10 minutes, which helps to meld the flavors together beautifully.
- Incorporate Miso and Seasonings:
- In a small bowl, mix the white miso paste with a few ladles of the hot broth to dissolve it smoothly. Then, stir this mixture back into the pot. Add soy sauce, sesame oil, and chili oil, adjusting the spice level to your preference. Let the broth simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Cook the Noodles:
- While the broth is simmering, bring a separate pot of water to a boil and cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions. This usually takes about 4-5 minutes for dry noodles. Once cooked, drain and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Assemble Your Ramen:
- Divide the cooked ramen noodles among serving bowls. Ladle the hot miso broth with the sautéed mushrooms and cooked chicken or tofu over the noodles.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Top with your favorite garnishes such as sliced green onions, nori sheets, sesame seeds, or fresh cilantro for an extra touch. Enjoy your warm, spicy bowl of ramen!
Prep Time
- Preparation: 15 minutes
- Cooking: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 450 per serving (depending on specific ingredients used)
This Spicy Miso Ramen delivers not only on flavor but also on warmth and comfort. Feel free to customize with additional toppings like boiled eggs, bok choy, or even corn to make it your own! Enjoy your cooking!