Description

Saucy Ramen Noodles combine tender noodles with a bold, savory sauce that balances sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors. This versatile dish is perfect for busy weeknights, as it’s quick to prepare and easily customizable. Whether you’re looking for a hearty vegetarian option or a protein-packed meal, this recipe has something for everyone.

Ingredients

Scale

Noodles

2 servings dry instant ramen noodle cakes (around 140 g total) or other noodles of choice.

For Sautéing

10 oz extra firm tofu, cooked chicken, shrimp, or mushrooms, sliced.

Sauce

1 cup water or vegetable broth.
5–7 tbsp soy sauce, adjust to taste.
1.5 tsp dark soy sauce (optional, adds a rich color and depth of flavor).
2–3 tbsp cornstarch.
1–3 tbsp sugar, maple syrup, or honey (adjust to desired sweetness).
2 tbsp rice vinegar, white vinegar, or lemon juice (for tanginess).
¼ tsp ground pepper.
½ tbsp chili garlic sauce or preferred hot sauce (optional, for an added spicy kick).
1 tbsp sesame oil.
2 cloves garlic, minced (optional).

For Serving

Chopped scallions for garnish.
Sesame seeds for topping.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together all the sauce ingredients until smooth and well blended. Ensure no lumps of cornstarch remain. Adjust sweetness, saltiness, tanginess, and spice to your liking. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the ramen noodles and cook until slightly underdone (2-3 minutes less than package instructions).
Drain the noodles and rinse under cold water to stop further cooking and remove excess starch.

Step 3: Sauté the Add-Ins

Heat a large pan or wok over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of oil.
Add tofu, shrimp, chicken, or mushrooms and sauté for 3-5 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Sauce

Return the pan to medium heat. Stir the sauce mixture again to prevent settling, then pour it into the pan.
Simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring continuously, until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.

Step 5: Combine Noodles and Sauce

Add the cooked noodles and sautéed protein or vegetables to the pan with the sauce.
Toss everything together to ensure even coating. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the noodles absorb some sauce.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Transfer to serving bowls. Garnish with chopped scallions and sesame seeds. Serve hot.

Notes

Adjust Spice: Add more chili garlic sauce or red pepper flakes if you prefer a spicier dish.
Balance the Sauce: Taste the sauce before cooking to ensure it matches your preference.
Customize: Include extra vegetables or proteins to make the dish heartier.
Reheating Tip: Add a splash of water or broth when reheating to refresh the sauce.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 portion (approximately half the recipe)
Calories: 430
Sugar: 8 g
Sodium: 850 mg
Fat: 16 g
Saturated Fat: 3 g
Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 55 g
Fiber: 3 g
Protein: 14 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg