Description
This Spicy Korean Ramen recipe offers a rich and authentic taste of Korean cuisine, combining savory broth, spicy gochujang, fresh vegetables, and tender noodles. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal, it features an aromatic blend of garlic, shiitake mushrooms, and baby spinach, finished with optional boiled egg and garnishes to elevate the flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 packs of instant ramen noodles (preferably spicy flavor)
- 4 cups of water
- 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1 medium carrot, julienned
- 1 cup of shiitake mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup of baby spinach
- 1 tablespoon of gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
Garnishes and Optional Toppings
- 1 green onion, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 boiled egg (optional, for topping)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Optional: kimchi, seaweed, chili oil for extra flavor
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sliced onion, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
- Cook Vegetables: Add julienned carrot and sliced shiitake mushrooms to the pot. Stir and cook for 3-4 minutes until they soften slightly.
- Add Water and Boil: Pour in 4 cups of water and bring it to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Flavor the Broth: Stir in gochujang, soy sauce, sesame oil, and sugar until well combined.
- Simmer Broth: Let the broth simmer for about 5 minutes to marry the flavors.
- Add Noodles: Submerge the instant ramen noodles in the boiling broth and cook following the package instructions (usually 3-4 minutes).
- Add Spinach: While noodles cook, add baby spinach and stir to distribute evenly.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the broth and add extra gochujang or red pepper flakes if you prefer more spice.
- Prepare Boiled Egg (Optional): Boil an egg for 6-7 minutes for a slightly runny yolk, then peel and slice in half.
- Serve: Ladle the ramen with broth, noodles, and vegetables into bowls.
- Garnish: Top with boiled egg halves, chopped green onions, and sesame seeds. Optionally add kimchi, seaweed, or chili oil for enhanced flavor.
- Enjoy: Use chopsticks or fork and savor your homemade spicy Korean ramen.
- Store Leftovers: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. When reheating, add a splash of water to restore broth consistency.
- Customize: Experiment by adding different vegetables or proteins such as tofu, chicken, or shrimp for varied flavors and heartiness.
Notes
- Use spicy-flavored instant ramen noodles for an authentic kick.
- Adjust the amount of gochujang and red pepper flakes to control the spice level.
- Fresh toppings like kimchi or seaweed add authentic Korean flavor and texture.
- Boiled egg is optional but adds protein and richness.
- Leftover broth may thicken after refrigeration; add water when reheating.
- Feel free to swap vegetables based on seasonality or preference.
- Vegetarian option: omit egg and ensure using vegetarian ramen noodles and condiments.
