When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats a warm, hearty bowl of ramen. The combination of rich broth, chewy noodles, and fresh vegetables creates a meal that feels like a hug in a bowl. While traditional ramen is often associated with meat-based broths, veg ramen is just as satisfying, offering a lighter but equally flavorful alternative. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just beginning to explore plant-based cooking, this veg ramen recipe is both delicious and easy to make. So, let’s dive into the world of slurp-worthy noodles!
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Why Choose Veg Ramen?
Ramen has exploded in popularity across the globe, moving far beyond its origins in Japan. The dish, originally considered street food, has been elevated to an art form in various ramen bars and restaurants. While pork-based broths like tonkatsu often take centre stage, vegetarian and vegan ramen offer a world of rich umami flavour, without the heaviness of animal fats. It’s a dish that is perfect for anyone looking for a lighter meal, those following a plant-based diet, or anyone wanting to add more vegetables to their diet.
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Ingredients Breakdown
Before we jump into the cooking process, let’s explore the core ingredients that will give your veg ramen its vibrant flavour and texture.
1. The Broth: The Heart of Ramen
In any ramen dish, the broth is the foundation. For this veg ramen, we’re creating a deep and savoury broth using kombu (dried kelp), miso paste, and shiitake mushrooms. These ingredients lend a rich umami flavour traditionally found in meat-based ramen.
- Kombu: A type of seaweed that is essential for making dashi, the base of many Japanese soups. It adds a savoury, ocean-like flavour.
- Miso Paste: A fermented soybean paste that comes in various types. White miso is milder, while red miso has a deeper, more robust flavour. You can choose based on your preference.
- Shiitake Mushrooms: These mushrooms offer a hearty, almost meaty texture and impart an earthy depth to the broth.
2. Vegetables: Fresh and Vibrant
Ramen is a perfect canvas for showcasing a variety of vegetables. In this recipe, we’re using:
- Bok Choy: A type of Chinese cabbage that holds its texture well in soups.
- Carrots: Thinly sliced, they add sweetness and colour to the bowl.
- Corn: Adds a sweet, juicy pop to each bite.
- Spinach: A great way to incorporate leafy greens without overpowering the dish.
- Bean Sprouts: For crunch and freshness.
3. Noodles: The Chewy Element
Ramen noodles come in different thicknesses and styles. You can find fresh ramen noodles in Asian supermarkets, or use dried ones as a substitute. If gluten-free is your preference, opt for rice noodles or even zucchini noodles (zoodles) for a low-carb version.
4. Toppings: Customize Your Bowl
The toppings are where you can truly make the ramen your own. Common toppings for veg ramen include:
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- Soft-boiled eggs (if you’re not vegan)
- Nori Sheets (dried seaweed)
- Sesame Seeds
- Scallions (green onions)
- Chili Oil or Sriracha for heat
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Veg Ramen Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Broth:
– 4 cups vegetable stock
– 1 sheet kombu (dried kelp)
– 1/4 cup dried shiitake mushrooms
– 2 tablespoons miso paste (white or red)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch ginger, sliced
– 1 tablespoon mirin (optional for sweetness)
For the Ramen:
– 4 servings of fresh or dried ramen noodles
– 2 heads of baby bok choy, halved
– 1/2 cup corn kernels
– 1 large carrot, julienned
– A handful of fresh spinach
– Bean sprouts for garnish
– Scallions, sliced for garnish
– Sesame seeds for garnish
– Optional: Soft-boiled egg, chilli oil, nori sheets
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Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Broth
- Hydrate the Kombu and Shiitake Mushrooms: In a large pot, add 4 cups of vegetable stock and a sheet of kombu. Let it simmer gently for about 10 minutes. Add the dried shiitake mushrooms and continue to simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavours to meld.
- Aromatics: Add minced garlic, sliced ginger, and mirin (if using) into the pot. Let these ingredients infuse the broth for an additional 5 minutes.
- Remove Kombu: After the simmering is complete, remove the kombu and discard it.
- Miso and Soy Sauce: Turn off the heat, and whisk in the miso paste until it dissolves. Add soy sauce and sesame oil to balance the flavours.
Step 2: Cook the Noodles
- Boil the Noodles: Cook your ramen noodles according to package instructions. Once done, drain them and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables
- Blanch the Bok Choy: In a small pot, bring water to a boil. Add the halved bok choy and blanch for 1-2 minutes until bright green and tender. Remove and set aside.
- Cook the Carrots and Corn: You can add the carrots and corn directly to the broth during the final simmer to soften them slightly.
Step 4: Assemble the Ramen
- Noodle Base: Place a serving of cooked noodles into each bowl.
- Add the Broth: Pour the hot broth over the noodles.
- Add Vegetables: Arrange the bok choy, carrots, corn, spinach, and bean sprouts on top of the noodles.
- Garnish: Top with scallions, sesame seeds, and any optional toppings like a soft-boiled egg, nori sheets, or chilli oil.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Your veg ramen is now ready to be enjoyed! This meal is best served piping hot, with chopsticks and a spoon for slurping up the flavorful broth.
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Tips for the Perfect Veg Ramen
- Miso Paste: Always add miso at the end of cooking and off the heat. Boiling miso can kill the beneficial bacteria and alter the flavour.
- Kombu: Don’t skip the kombu! This ingredient is crucial for that umami taste.
- Customizable: Feel free to switch up the vegetables based on the season. Mushrooms, broccoli, or even bell peppers can work well in this ramen.
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Nutritional Benefits of Veg Ramen
Not only is veg ramen a feast for your taste buds, but it also packs a nutritional punch. Here are some benefits of the key ingredients:
- Miso: Rich in probiotics that promote gut health.
- Shiitake Mushrooms: Full of vitamins, fibre, and immune-boosting properties.
- Bok Choy: High in vitamins C, A, and K.
- Spinach: Packed with iron and antioxidants, it’s a nutritional powerhouse.
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Conclusion
Veg ramen is an incredibly versatile and nourishing dish that delivers both flavour and health benefits. It’s the perfect meal for a cosy night in or when you’re looking to impress guests with a homemade dish that’s as delicious as it is Instagram-worthy. With its rich broth, hearty noodles, and fresh vegetables, this veg ramen recipe will quickly become a staple in your weekly meal rotation. Give it a try.
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