Ingredients and preparation
To create a delicious bowl of Ramen Noodles with Garlic, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Ramen noodles: 2 packs of your favorite instant ramen noodles
- Garlic: 4 cloves, finely minced
- Vegetable broth: 4 cups
- Soy sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Sesame oil: 1 tablespoon
- Green onions: 2 stalks, thinly sliced
- Baby spinach: 1 cup, washed and drained
- Carrots: 1 medium, julienned
- Red pepper flakes: 1 teaspoon (optional, for a spicy kick)
- Salt and pepper: to taste
Before you start cooking, it’s essential to prepare all your ingredients. Here’s a quick guide:
- Garlic: Peel and finely mince the garlic cloves. The finer the mince, the more evenly the garlic will cook and infuse its flavor into the broth.
- Green onions: Wash and thinly slice the green onions. Separate the white parts from the green parts, as they will be added at different stages of cooking.
- Carrots: Peel and julienne the carrot. Julienne means to cut into thin, matchstick-like strips, which will cook quickly and add a nice texture to the ramen.
- Baby spinach: Wash thoroughly and drain. If the leaves are large, you can roughly chop them for easier eating.
With all your ingredients prepped and ready, you’re now set to move on to the cooking instructions.
Cooking instructions
Begin by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add the sesame oil and allow it to warm up for about 30 seconds. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent it from burning. The garlic should become fragrant and slightly golden.
Next, pour in the vegetable broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and add the soy sauce. Stir well to combine the flavors. Allow the broth to simmer for about 5 minutes to let the garlic infuse its flavor into the liquid.
While the broth is simmering, cook the ramen noodles in a separate pot according to the package instructions. Typically, this involves boiling the noodles for 3-4 minutes until they are tender but still slightly firm. Drain the noodles and set them aside.
Returning to the broth, add the julienned carrots and the white parts of the green onions. Let them cook for about 2-3 minutes until they start to soften. Then, add the baby spinach and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the spinach is wilted.
Finally, add the cooked ramen noodles to the pot. Stir gently to combine the noodles with the broth and vegetables. Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. If you prefer a spicy kick, now is the time to add the red pepper flakes.
Allow the ramen to simmer for another minute to ensure everything is well combined and heated through. Your Ramen Noodles with Garlic are now ready to be served.
Serving suggestions and variations
When it comes to serving your Ramen Noodles with Garlic, presentation and additional garnishes can elevate the dish to a whole new level. Here are some suggestions to make your ramen not only taste amazing but also look visually appealing:
- Green onions: Use the reserved green parts of the green onions to sprinkle on top of the ramen just before serving. This adds a fresh, vibrant color and a mild onion flavor.
- Soft-boiled eggs: A classic ramen topping, soft-boiled eggs add richness and texture. To make them, boil eggs for 6-7 minutes, then transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking. Peel and halve them before placing them on top of the ramen.
- Nori sheets: Thin strips of nori (seaweed) can be added for an umami boost and a touch of authenticity. Simply cut a nori sheet into thin strips and sprinkle over the ramen.
- Sesame seeds: Toasted sesame seeds add a nutty flavor and a bit of crunch. Sprinkle a small amount over the finished dish.
- Chili oil: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a drizzle of chili oil can add a spicy kick and a beautiful red hue to the broth.
- Fresh herbs: Fresh cilantro or basil can add a unique twist and a burst of freshness to your ramen.
For variations, consider these ideas to customize your ramen to your liking:
- Protein additions: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, tofu, or pork to make the ramen more filling. Simply cook your protein of choice separately and add it to the broth along with the noodles.
- Vegetable variations: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables. Mushrooms, bok choy, bell peppers, and corn are all excellent additions that can enhance the flavor and texture of your ramen.
- Broth variations: While vegetable broth is a great base, you can also use chicken broth or miso broth for a different flavor profile. Miso paste can be added to the vegetable broth for a richer, more complex taste.
- Noodle options: If you prefer a healthier option, you can substitute the instant ramen noodles with whole wheat noodles, soba noodles, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb alternative.
By incorporating these serving suggestions and variations, you can create a personalized and delightful bowl of Ramen Noodles with Garlic that suits your taste preferences and dietary needs.