Korean ramen noodles are a cozy bowl of flavors! They are quick to cook and come with a spicy broth that warms you up from the inside out.
They’re perfect for a late-night snack or a quick meal. I love adding an egg or some veggies to make it even tastier. Yum! 🍜
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Korean Instant Ramen Noodles: These are the star of the dish, providing flavor and texture. If you can’t find Korean brands, any instant ramen will work as a substitute.
Cooked Chicken Breast: This adds protein. You can swap it with tofu for a vegetarian twist or leave it out altogether for a lighter meal. Leftover rotisserie chicken works great too!
Kimchi: Traditional in Korean cooking, it adds spice and tang. If you don’t have it, try sauerkraut or pickled vegetables for some crunch, though the flavor won’t be the same.
Gochugaru: This Korean chili powder gives warmth and a smoky flavor. If unavailable, red pepper flakes can work in a pinch, but adjust to taste as they are spicier.
How Do You Perfectly Cook Ramen Noodles?
Cooking ramen noodles so they’re perfectly tender (but not mushy) is key! Here’s how to do it:
- Bring water to a rolling boil before adding the noodles. This helps them cook evenly.
- Follow package instructions exactly, generally 4-5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- For the best texture, avoid overcooking. Aim for ‘al dente’—they should be firm yet tender!
- Don’t forget to add the seasoning packet toward the end to keep the broth flavorful.
How to Make Korean Ramen Noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 packet Korean instant ramen noodles
- 4 cups water
- 1/2 cup cooked chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 1 boiled egg, sliced in half
- 1/4 cup kimchi, chopped
- 1 green chili, sliced
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 sheet roasted seaweed (gim), cut into strips
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp sesame seeds
- 1 tsp gochugaru (Korean red chili flakes) or to taste
- 1 tsp soy sauce (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes of prep and cooking time. It’s a quick and satisfying meal, perfect for any time you need a comforting bowl of noodles!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Boil the Water:
Start by bringing 4 cups of water to a rolling boil in a medium pot. It’s important to have a strong boil for the noodles to cook nicely.
2. Cook the Noodles:
Once the water is boiling, add your Korean ramen noodles. Cook them according to the package instructions, usually around 4-5 minutes. Stir them occasionally to help them separate and cook evenly.
3. Add Flavor:
About a minute before the noodles are done, add in the seasoning packet that comes with the ramen. Stir well to mix in all those delicious flavors.
4. Warm the Chicken:
Add the sliced chicken breast into the pot to warm through. This will only take a minute since the chicken is already cooked.
5. Add Extra Goodies:
Now, add the chopped kimchi, sliced green chilies, and if you’re using it, a splash of soy sauce. Let everything simmer together for about another minute.
6. Finish with Sesame Oil:
Turn off the heat and drizzle a teaspoon of sesame oil into your soup. This gives it a lovely rich flavor!
7. Serve It Up:
Carefully ladle the noodles and broth into a serving bowl. Place the boiled egg halves on top, and get creative with garnishes!
8. Garnish and Enjoy:
Sprinkle the top with chopped green onions, lay on the roasted seaweed strips, and finish with sesame seeds and gochugaru for an extra kick. Serve hot and enjoy your homemade Korean ramen noodles!
Can I Use Other Proteins Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option or add shrimp or beef for another protein choice. Just ensure any raw meat is fully cooked to a safe internal temperature before serving.
Can I Make This Vegetarian or Vegan?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and egg. Use vegetable broth instead of water for added flavor, and ensure your ramen noodles are egg-free (some brands may contain egg).
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. If reheating, you may want to add a splash of water to the broth to loosen it up. Heat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I Customize the Heat Level?
Definitely! If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of gochugaru or omit the green chili slices. Conversely, if you love spice, feel free to add more gochugaru or additional chili peppers!
