Are you ready to spice up your dinner plans? TikTok Spicy Garlic Ramen is a simple yet delicious dish that brings the heat and flavor you crave. With just a few key ingredients like instant ramen and fresh veggies, you can whip up a mouthwatering meal in no time. Join me as I guide you through each step, from creating the perfect broth to customizing your spice levels. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 2 packs instant ramen noodles
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 teaspoons chili paste (adjust for desired spiciness)
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 cup fresh spinach or bok choy
– 1 carrot, peeled and julienned
– 2 green onions, sliced
– 1 soft-boiled egg (optional, for added richness)
– Sesame seeds, for garnish
Gather these simple ingredients before you start cooking. Instant ramen noodles provide a quick base. The vegetable broth brings depth and warmth. Garlic and ginger add a punch of flavor that you will love. Soy sauce and chili paste create a savory and spicy balance. Fresh vegetables not only add color but also nutrients. You can add a soft-boiled egg for creaminess and richness. Lastly, sesame seeds give a nice crunch on top. This dish is quick, easy, and full of flavor. You can find all these items at your local grocery store. Enjoy cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Aromatics
First, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large pot over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add 4 cloves of minced garlic and 1 tablespoon of grated ginger. Sauté them for about 1 to 2 minutes. You want them to smell great but not brown.
Creating the Broth
Next, pour in 4 cups of vegetable broth, stirring well. Raise the heat until the broth simmers gently. Once it simmers, add 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and 2 teaspoons of chili paste. Adjust the chili paste based on how spicy you like it.
Cooking the Noodles
Now, open the two packs of instant ramen noodles. Add them to the bubbling broth. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, following the package directions. Make sure the noodles become tender but still firm.
Adding Vegetables
In the last minute of cooking, add 1 cup of fresh spinach or bok choy and 1 peeled, julienned carrot. Stir gently so the greens wilt and look bright.
Plating the Ramen
Finally, ladle the ramen mixture into two bowls. Make sure each bowl has a good mix of noodles and veggies. If you like, slice a soft-boiled egg in half and place it on top for extra creaminess. Finish by sprinkling chopped green onions and sesame seeds on top for a nice crunch and pretty look.
Tips & Tricks
Adjusting Spice Levels
To customize the chili paste, start with less than two teaspoons. You can add more as you taste. If you want a mild dish, try using just soy sauce and ginger. Instead of chili paste, consider using a splash of sweet chili sauce for a hint of heat without the burn.
Achieving the Perfect Soft-Boiled Egg
For a soft-boiled egg, bring water to a boil. Gently lower the egg in using a spoon. Boil for six to seven minutes, then cool it in ice water. This method gives you a creamy yolk. Keep an eye on the time for the best result.
Enhancing Flavor
To elevate the taste, add mushrooms or bok choy to your ramen. You can also stir in a spoonful of miso paste for depth. Homemade broth will give you richer flavor than store-bought. Simmer vegetable scraps for a simple broth that tastes great.
Variations
Protein Additions
You can make TikTok Spicy Garlic Ramen even better by adding protein. Here are a few great options:
– Tofu: Use firm tofu for a plant-based choice. Just cube and pan-fry it until golden.
– Chicken: Add cooked chicken for a heartier meal. Shred or dice it before mixing in.
– Shrimp: Cook shrimp right in the broth for a quick, tasty addition. They only take a few minutes!
Each protein changes the dish’s flavor and texture, so pick what you love!
Vegetable Substitutes
Feel free to swap out the veggies based on what you have. Here are some ideas:
– Mushrooms: They add a nice umami flavor. Slice and sauté them with garlic.
– Bell Peppers: These add sweetness and color. Slice them thin for quick cooking.
– Zucchini: Spiralize or julienne for a fun twist. They cook fast and add crunch.
You can also change up the veggies with the seasons. Fresh peas in spring or squash in the fall can keep things interesting!
Gluten-Free Options
If you need gluten-free ramen, you can still enjoy this dish. Here’s how:
– Gluten-Free Noodles: Many brands offer rice noodles or gluten-free ramen. Check your local store!
– Adjusting Broth: Make sure your broth is gluten-free. Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a safe swap.
These options ensure everyone can enjoy a bowl of this flavorful ramen!
Storage Info
Refrigeration
To store leftovers, let the ramen cool first. Place it in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and safe. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. When you want to eat it, just reheat on the stove.
To maintain flavor and texture, add a splash of broth or water when reheating. This keeps the noodles from drying out. Stir well to mix everything evenly.
Freezing Tips
You can freeze this ramen, but it works best without the noodles. First, cool the broth and veggies completely. Pour them into a freezer-safe bag or container. Remove as much air as possible before sealing.
When you want to eat it, thaw the broth overnight in the fridge. For reheating, heat it in a pot over medium heat. Cook fresh noodles separately and add them in. This keeps the noodles from getting mushy.
Shelf Life
The maximum storage time for this ramen in the fridge is three days. If you freeze it, you can keep it for up to three months. Make sure to label the bag or container with the date. This way, you know when to use it.
FAQs
What is TikTok Spicy Garlic Ramen?
TikTok Spicy Garlic Ramen is a trendy, easy dish that went viral online. It features instant ramen noodles, fresh garlic, and a spicy broth. Many home cooks share their unique twists on this recipe. The combination of flavors makes it a favorite for quick meals.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! You can easily make this recipe vegetarian. Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For protein, add tofu or tempeh. You can also swap out the soft-boiled egg for additional veggies, like mushrooms or bell peppers.
How do I make the broth richer?
To enhance the broth flavor, use homemade vegetable broth if possible. You can also add a tablespoon of miso paste for depth. For more umami, try adding a splash of cooking wine or a bit of dried mushrooms. These small changes make a big difference.
What can I serve with TikTok Spicy Garlic Ramen?
You can serve this ramen with a side of spring rolls or dumplings. A simple salad with sesame dressing also pairs well. If you want something crunchy, try crispy wontons or tempura vegetables. These sides add variety to your meal.
Can I use different noodles?
Yes, you can use different noodles! Udon or soba noodles work well. Rice noodles are a good gluten-free option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type of noodles you choose. Enjoy experimenting with different textures.
This blog post covered how to make a tasty ramen dish. We explored the key ingredients, from instant noodles to fresh vegetables. I shared step-by-step instructions for cooking and plating. We looked at tips for adjusting spice levels and achieving the perfect soft-boiled egg. You can enhance your ramen with different proteins and seasonal veggies.
Get creative and make this recipe your own. Ramen is fun and flexible, making it easy to suit your tastes. Enjoy your cooking!
