As the aroma of miso and garlic wafts through my kitchen, I can’t help but feel a wave of comfort wash over me. This Spicy Miso Ramen is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for those chilly evenings when you crave something hearty yet quick. With its customizable nature, this recipe caters to everyone—whether you’re a devoted meat-lover or seeking a delightful vegetarian or vegan option. In under 45 minutes, you can embrace the umami flavors of this dish that not only satisfies but also transforms an ordinary night into a culinary adventure. What unique twist will you add to your ramen bowl tonight? Why is Spicy Miso Ramen a Must-Try? Comforting warmth: This Spicy Miso Ramen envelops you in a cozy embrace, perfect for chilly nights. Quick meal: With just 45 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy a delicious bowl without spending hours in the kitchen. Customizable options: Whether you prefer a meat-based dish or want to try a vegetarian twist with tofu or tempeh, this recipe has you covered. Umami explosion: Miso, garlic, and ginger unite for an irresistible flavor profile that will keep you coming back for more. Plus, if you’re a fan of crispy sides, consider pairing it with Fried Burrata Spicy or Miso Butter Salmon for a truly satisfying meal! Spicy Miso Ramen Ingredients For the Broth Ground Chicken or Pork – A protein source; substitute with crumbled tempeh or tofu for a vegetarian or vegan option. Neutral Cooking Oil – Essential for sautéing; vegetable or canola oil works best. Shiitake Mushrooms – Adds depth and earthy flavor; use fresh or dried (rehydrate dried beforehand). Minced Shallots – Provides aromatic sweetness; yellow onions are a suitable substitute, though the flavor will differ. Garlic – Enhances flavor; feel free to adjust based on taste preference (4 cloves, minced). Freshly Grated Ginger – Adds warmth; substitute with ½ teaspoon ground ginger if fresh is unavailable (1 tbsp). White Miso Paste – Delivers umami and sweetness; best for ramen broth (3 tbsp). Lower-Sodium Soy Sauce – Provides saltiness and depth; opt for tamari for gluten-free (2 tbsp). Rice Vinegar – Infuses acidity into the broth; apple cider vinegar can be an alternative (2 tbsp). Hot Chili Oil – Brings spice; adjust based on heat preference (1 tbsp). Low Sodium Chicken or Vegetable Broth – Serves as the broth base (6-8 cups). For the Noodles and Garnish Dry Ramen Noodles – Main carbohydrate; discard included seasoning packs (2 packs). Sweet Corn – Adds sweetness and texture; interchangeable between fresh, frozen, or canned (1 cup). Soft-Boiled Eggs – Offers richness; omit for vegan option (3, halved). Thinly Sliced Green Onions – For garnish and freshness. Toasted Sesame Seeds – Optional garnish adds nutty flavor. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spicy Miso Ramen Step 1: Cook Protein In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of neutral cooking oil over medium heat. Add the ground chicken or pork and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes. Once fully cooked, remove the meat from the pot and set it aside in a bowl, leaving any drippings behind for flavor. Step 2: Sauté Aromatics In the same pot, add shiitake mushrooms and sauté for about 5 minutes until they turn golden and tender. Next, introduce minced shallots, garlic, and freshly grated ginger, stirring constantly until fragrant, approximately 2-3 minutes. This aromatic mixture will infuse your Spicy Miso Ramen with a heavenly base. Step 3: Prepare Broth Reduce the heat to low and stir in 3 tablespoons of white miso paste, followed by 2 tablespoons of lower-sodium soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of hot chili oil for that spicy kick. Pour in 6-8 cups of low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to simmer for about 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Step 4: Boil Noodles After the broth has simmered, return the pot to a gentle boil and add 2 packs of dry ramen noodles. Cook the noodles according to package instructions, usually around 3 minutes, until they reach an al dente texture. Stir in 1 cup of sweet corn, allowing it to warm through alongside the cooked protein, which you’ll reintroduce to the pot at this point. Step 5: Serve Ladle the steaming Spicy Miso Ramen into bowls, making sure to capture all those delicious ingredients. Top each bowl with halved soft-boiled eggs, thinly sliced green onions, and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. For an extra kick, drizzle more hot chili oil on top if desired, and enjoy this comforting dish with all its vibrant flavors. Spicy Miso Ramen Variations & Substitutions Feel free to unleash your creativity and transform this Spicy Miso Ramen into your very own masterpiece! Vegetarian Delight: Swap ground meat for crumbled tempeh or tofu, creating a hearty vegetarian version that’s equally satisfying. Vegan Twist: Keep it plant-based by omitting the soft-boiled eggs. You won’t miss the richness with such flavorful broth! Mushroom Medley: Experiment with different mushrooms like oyster or portobello for a unique earthy flavor in your ramen. Extra Veggies: Boost nutrition by adding baby spinach, bok choy, or bell pepper while sautéing aromatics for a pop of color and flavors. Tangy Variation: Substitute rice vinegar with lime juice for a refreshing citrus zing that brightens up every spoonful of ramen. Noodle Options: Use any favorite brand of ramen or even soba noodles to change up the texture and taste of your dish. Nutty Garnish: Sprinkle some crushed peanuts or cashews on top for a crunchy finishing touch that complements the broth beautifully. Heat Levels: For an extra kick, incorporate sliced fresh chili peppers or a dash of sriracha if you’re craving more heat! For an exciting side dish, consider pairing your ramen with some crispy tempura vegetables or delicious edamame. You can also serve it alongside lighter options like a chilled cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast. If you’re in the mood for something extra savory, don’t forget to check out my recipe for Buffalo Chicken Thighs Spicy to elevate your meal experience! What to Serve with Spicy Miso Ramen Elevate your Spicy Miso Ramen experience with these delicious pairings for a complete culinary journey. Crispy Tempura Vegetables: These light and crunchy tempura creations add a delightful contrast to the warm, comforting ramen. Perfect for those who love extra texture! Chilled Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and vibrant, a cucumber salad drizzled with sesame dressing offers a cooling balance to the spicy flavors of your ramen. It’s a light, crisp side that’s easy to prepare. Edamame: Steamed edamame is a nutritious and fun snack. Their slight nuttiness complements the rich umami broth beautifully, making them an excellent appetizer. Soft Spring Rolls: Wraps filled with fresh vegetables and herbs, dipped in peanut sauce provide a crunchy, refreshing taste that lightens your meal. These add a bright touch to the comforting bowl of ramen. Pickled Daikon: The tangy and crunchy character of pickled daikon slices enhances the umami flavors while adding a delightful crunch, making every bite a journey. Spicy Tofu Skewers: Grilled or baked spicy tofu skewers bring a smoky flavor with an extra layer of heat. They are a satisfying protein accompaniment that can heighten the meal experience. Sesame Mochi: For dessert, soft and chewy mochi filled with sweet red bean paste offers a delightful conclusion to your meal, balancing the spice of your spicy miso ramen perfectly. Green Tea: A soothing cup of green tea adds a note of calm to your dining experience, with its earthy flavors enhancing the overall meal vibe. Mochi Ice Cream: End on a sweet note with mochi ice cream; its creamy texture and flavors like matcha or mango provide a refreshing end to a savory meal. Tips for the Best Spicy Miso Ramen • Broth Boost: Add 1-2 extra cups of low sodium broth for a richer flavor. It deepens the umami in your Spicy Miso Ramen! • Spice Control: Adjust garlic and chili oil according to your taste. Start with less if you’re unsure; you can always add more later. • Noodle Timing: Check noodles a minute before the package time to avoid overcooking. Perfectly cooked noodles are key to a delightful bowl! • Vegetable Variety: Don’t hesitate to toss in your favorite vegetables like bok choy or spinach for added nutrients and color. • Garnish Generously: Top your ramen with plenty of green onions and sesame seeds for a flavor and texture explosion. Make Ahead Options These Spicy Miso Ramen bowls are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor comfort food on busy nights! You can prepare the broth (omit the noodles) and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Simply sauté the protein and aromatics as instructed, then combine with the broth and cool before storing. For the noodles, cook them fresh, as they’re best served al dente right before serving to avoid mushiness. When ready to enjoy, just reheat the broth on the stove, cook the noodles, and combine everything in bowls. This way, you’ll have a delicious, homemade Spicy Miso Ramen with minimal effort, just as satisfying as when freshly made! Storage Tips for Spicy Miso Ramen Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the noodles separate from the broth to maintain their texture. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the broth (without noodles) for up to 3 months. Cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Reheating: To reheat, thaw the broth overnight in the fridge, then gently reheat on the stove until warmed through. Cook fresh noodles separately for the best texture. Noodle Storage: If you anticipate leftovers, avoid cooking all the noodles at once. Store uncooked noodles dry and combine them with the broth when ready to serve. Spicy Miso Ramen Recipe FAQs What type of mushrooms should I use for Spicy Miso Ramen? Absolutely! Shiitake mushrooms are ideal for their depth of flavor and earthy notes. You can use either fresh or dried shiitake mushrooms; if you choose dried, simply rehydrate them in warm water for about 20-30 minutes before adding them to your ramen. How should I store leftovers from my Spicy Miso Ramen? Very good question! Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep the noodles separate from the broth to maintain their texture. When you’re ready to enjoy your ramen again, simply reheat both the broth and noodles separately. Can I freeze Spicy Miso Ramen? Certainly! For longer storage, you can freeze the broth without the noodles for up to 3 months. Allow the broth to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers, making sure to leave some space for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the broth in the fridge overnight and gently reheat it on the stove. What if my ramen noodles are overcooked? It happens to the best of us! If your noodles are overcooked, there’s not much you can do to reverse them, but you can always enhance the dish with more toppings. Adding fresh ingredients like sliced green onions, crispy garlic, or even some extra vegetables can elevate your ramen, giving it a fresher taste and texture. Can I make Spicy Miso Ramen vegan? Absolutely! To make this recipe vegan, substitute the ground chicken or pork with crumbled tempeh or tofu, and ensure that your broth and soy sauce are vegan-friendly. You can still enjoy that rich, umami flavor without compromising your dietary choices. How do I know when my ramen noodles are perfectly cooked? For perfect noodles, it’s crucial to keep an eye on them! Cook the noodles according to the package instructions, usually around 3 minutes for dry ramen. I suggest checking them a minute before the recommended time for that ideal al dente texture. Spicy Miso Ramen: Comfort in Every Delicious Slurp Spicy Miso Ramen is a comforting and customizable dish that brings warmth and delicious flavor into every slurp. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 35 minutes minsTotal Time 45 minutes mins Servings: 4 bowlsCourse: DinnerCuisine: JapaneseCalories: 400 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Broth1 lb Ground Chicken or Pork Substitute with crumbled tempeh or tofu for vegetarian or vegan option.2 tbsp Neutral Cooking Oil Vegetable or canola oil works best.1 cup Shiitake Mushrooms Use fresh or dried (rehydrate dried beforehand).1 cup Minced Shallots Yellow onions are a suitable substitute.4 cloves Garlic Minced, adjust based on taste preference.1 tbsp Freshly Grated Ginger Substitute with ½ teaspoon ground ginger if fresh is unavailable.3 tbsp White Miso Paste Best for ramen broth.2 tbsp Lower-Sodium Soy Sauce Opt for tamari for gluten-free.2 tbsp Rice Vinegar Apple cider vinegar can be an alternative.1 tbsp Hot Chili Oil Adjust based on heat preference.6-8 cups Low Sodium Chicken or Vegetable Broth Serves as the broth base.For the Noodles and Garnish2 packs Dry Ramen Noodles Discard included seasoning packs.1 cup Sweet Corn Interchangeable between fresh, frozen, or canned.3 pieces Soft-Boiled Eggs Omit for vegan option.Thinly Sliced Green Onions For garnish and freshness.Toasted Sesame Seeds Optional garnish adds nutty flavor. Equipment Large pot Method Cooking InstructionsIn a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of neutral cooking oil over medium heat. Add the ground chicken or pork and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes. Once fully cooked, remove the meat from the pot and set it aside in a bowl, leaving any drippings behind for flavor.In the same pot, add shiitake mushrooms and sauté for about 5 minutes until they turn golden and tender. Next, introduce minced shallots, garlic, and freshly grated ginger, stirring constantly until fragrant, approximately 2-3 minutes.Reduce the heat to low and stir in white miso paste, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and hot chili oil. Pour in low-sodium broth, bringing the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer for about 20 minutes.After the broth has simmered, return to a gentle boil and add dry ramen noodles. Cook according to package instructions, usually around 3 minutes. Stir in sweet corn and reintroduce the cooked protein to the pot.Ladle the ramen into bowls, topping each with halved soft-boiled eggs, green onions, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Drizzle more hot chili oil if desired. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 25gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, keeping noodles separate from broth. For longer storage, freeze the broth for up to 3 months. Reheat by thawing and warming on the stove while cooking fresh noodles separately. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
