Ramen is that go-to meal everyone loves, from broke college students to chefs at fancy restaurants. Straight-out-of-the-packet ramen is great for its simplicity and comfort. But with a little bit of creativity and some easy additions, you can turn that basic bowl into something truly amazing. Here are our favorite ways to jazz up your instant ramen, making it tastier and more personal without breaking the bank or spending hours in the kitchen.
Make Use of Condiments
Upgrading your instant ramen can be as simple as reaching into your fridge for condiments. A dab of miso paste or a drizzle of chili oil can introduce deep, complex flavors. These additions let you play around and find flavor combos that really hit the spot, turning your ramen bowl into something a lot more exciting. Just don’t go overboard and mix too many things together at once. Stick with one or two and test a bunch out over time to find your favorites.
Add Quick-Cooking Vegetables
Ramen is far from a health food, but you can make it a little healthier with this easy hack. Add a colorful boost from vegetables like spinach, kale, or thinly sliced bell peppers. They not only add a fresh bite but also makes your meal feel more complete. Quick-cooking veggies can be tossed in right as you finish cooking, wilting perfectly into the hot broth.
The Iconic Soft-Boiled Egg
Dropping a soft-boiled egg into your ramen is a game changer. The creamy yolk mixes with the broth, making it richer and more flavorful. You can cook the egg right in the pot with your noodles or make it separately for that perfect runny center. Plus, eggs are a cheap protein which fits perfectly with this kind of budget meal.
A Big Squeeze of Fresh Lime Juice
A squeeze of fresh lime can brighten up your ramen in a way you wouldn’t believe. It cuts through the richness and adds a zing that wakes up all the flavors. Just cut a lime wedge and squeeze it over your bowl right before you dig in.
Garnish with Scallions
Chopping up some scallions and sprinkling them on top of your ramen adds a burst of freshness and a bit of crunch. It’s a classic topping for a reason, bringing a slight oniony flavor that complements the broth without overpowering it. Plus, it makes your bowl look pretty professional.
Swap Water for Broth When Cooking
Instead of just using water to cook your noodles, try broth—chicken, beef, or vegetable. It deepens the flavor of the whole dish, making your ramen taste like you spent hours on it instead of minutes. This one switch can transform a simple snack into a hearty, satisfying meal.
Add Mushrooms
Slicing in some mushrooms adds earthiness and a meaty texture to your ramen. They soak up the broth and get super flavorful. You can use fresh mushrooms and sauté them first, or keep it simple with canned mushrooms added straight to the pot. Either way, they’re a great add-on for making your ramen more filling.
Nut Butter
Stirring in a spoonful of peanut or almond butter gives your ramen a creamy, nutty base that’s surprisingly awesome. It thickens the broth slightly and pairs well with spicy or tangy flavors. Try it paired with sriracha, trust us. Just a little bit goes a long way in adding richness and depth to your bowl.
Cilantro
If you’re not someone who thinks it tastes like soap, throwing in some freshly chopped cilantro can change the whole vibe of your ramen. It adds a pop of color and a fresh, almost citrusy flavor that’s great for balancing out spicier or more savory broths. It also pairs really well with the lime and scallions if you’re using those too.
A Bit of Fresh Ginger Goes a Long Way
Grating some fresh ginger into your ramen can add a warm, spicy kick that’s perfect for cold days. It’s also great for your health. You don’t need much—just grate a little bit into the pot while your noodles cook, and you’ll notice the difference right away.
Add Protein
Tossing in some cooked chicken, beef, tofu, or even shrimp makes your ramen more of a full meal. It’s a great way to use up leftovers, and adding protein keeps you full longer. Just warm your protein of choice and add it to your bowl for an easy, satisfying upgrade.
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Have you stopped scrolling on a beautiful charcuterie board on Instagram and thought, “I could never pull that off”? Well, think again! Putting together a killer charcuterie board is all about mixing flavors, textures, and a bit of what you already have in your kitchen. It’s not rocket science, but with a few simple tips, you can create a board that’s not only delicious but looks like you’ve put a ton of effort into it.
Read it Here: 11 Tips To Make The Perfect Charcuterie Board For Any Occasion
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Is there anything more universally loved and endlessly versatile than the sandwich? It seems every corner of the world has its own take on stuffing something delicious between slices of bread. Whether it’s a classic burger or something as distinct as a katsu sando, sandwiches are the go-to for cravings everywhere. Exploring the wide array of sandwiches from around the globe offers a glimpse into each culture’s culinary soul. So, if you’re looking for inspiration on which sandwich might be worth planning your next adventure around, we’ve got you covered with some of the world’s best.
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Gina Matsoukas is an AP syndicated writer. She is the founder, photographer and recipe developer of Running to the Kitchen — a food website focused on providing healthy, wholesome recipes using fresh and seasonal ingredients. Her work has been featured in numerous media outlets both digital and print, including MSN, Huffington post, Buzzfeed, Women’s Health and Food Network.
