Vegan Korean Ramen – easy vegan Chicken ramen recipe

Vegan Korean Ramen recipe – get ready for a bowl of ramen featuring ultra luxe, ultra flavorful, and mouthwateringly tender twirly noodles bathed in a flavorful broth that will satisfy your taste buds. Silky, slippery, rich, and spicy noodles featuring amazing depth of flavor and a hint of heat. The first time I tried Ramen it was a vegetarian ramen at a Japanese restaurant and I was blown away by the red miso soup base that created the most delicious ramen broth. It was love at first bite and I’ve been making my own homemade ramen ever since. We’re talking about the best ramen noodles recipe featuring a simple ingredient list; mushrooms, onions, carrots, zucchini, and the perfect amount of heat from the ginger and spices. It’s a quick-to-make, nutritious, healthy, and irresistibly tasty ramen recipe that you will want to make on repeat!

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Switch it up and make it your own

This easy vegan ramen recipe is so versatile. Make it a different kind of vegan chicken ramen recipe by replacing the shiitake mushrooms with soft tofu slices fried at medium-high heat to golden tender perfection, paired perfectly with the spicy noodles. You can’t go wrong with this vegan instant ramen. 

In this easy Korean Ramen recipe we’re covering

• Equipment needed to make vegan Korean Ramen
• Tips and tricks for making the best plant based Korean Ramen
• Ingredients to make the best vegan Korean ‘chicken’ ramen
• How to make simple Ramen
• Ramen vs Noodles
• Soba noodles vs. Ramen
• How to make ramen gluten-free
• How to cook wood ear mushrooms
• Ways to serve Korean ramen
• Faqs

Why you’re going to love my vegan Korean Ramen

Korean ramen, also known as ramyeon, is a delicious and flavorful dish that has become increasingly popular around the world. Here are a few reasons why Korean ramen is so great:

1. Bold flavors: Korean ramen is known for its bold and complex flavors, with a savory, spicy, and sometimes sweet taste. Many varieties come with a spicy sauce packet that can be added to the broth for an extra kick.

2. Variety: There are many different flavors and brands of Korean ramen to choose from, each with its own unique taste and texture. Some popular flavors include kimchi, seafood, and black bean sauce.

3. Quick and easy: Korean ramen is easy to prepare, with most packages taking only a few minutes to cook. It’s a great option for a quick and satisfying meal, whether you’re eating alone or with friends.

4. Affordable: Korean ramen is usually very affordable, making it an accessible option for people on a budget.

Overall, Korean ramen is a delicious and convenient meal that is perfect for anyone who loves bold and exciting flavors. The umami-packed broth gives the dish the best flavor! Give it a try and see for yourself!

What are the origins of Korean Ramen and how is it traditionally made?

Ramen is actually a Japanese dish, but the Japanese Ramen has become popular in many countries including Korea. Korean ramen, also known as “ramyeon” in Korean, was first introduced in Korea in the 1960s and quickly became a popular instant food due to its convenience, affordability, and delicious taste.

Traditionally, Korean ramen is made by boiling noodles in water, then adding a seasoning packet that typically contains chili powder, garlic, onion, salt, soy sauce, and other spices and flavorings. After mixing in the seasoning, the noodles are ready to be served.

Many Koreans enjoy adding extra ingredients to their ramen to give it more flavor and nutrition. Common additions include eggs, mushrooms, vegetables, and meat or seafood. When prepared at home, Korean ramen can be customized to suit individual preferences and tastes.

Overall, Korean ramen is a popular and delicious dish that is enjoyed by many people in South Korea. Its popularity continues to grow as new flavors and varieties are introduced, making it a staple in Korean cuisine and a favorite among ramen lovers around the world.

Equipment needed to make vegan Korean Ramen

To make Korean ramen, you don’t need any special equipment. Here are the basic tools that you’ll need:

A pot: To cook the noodles and broth, you’ll need a pot that is large enough to hold the ingredients.

A stove: Korean ramen is typically cooked on a stovetop, so you’ll need access to a stove or hot plate.

A strainer: Once the noodles are cooked, you’ll need to drain them before adding them to the broth. A strainer or colander will be helpful for this.

A ladle: To serve the ramen, you’ll need a ladle to scoop the broth into bowls.

Chopsticks or a fork: Korean ramen is traditionally eaten with chopsticks, but you can also use a fork if you prefer.

Optional equipment that can be helpful:

A large pot: A large pot can be helpful if you’re cooking for multiple people or want to make a larger batch of ramen.

Tongs: Tongs can be helpful for removing the cooked noodles from the pot and transferring them to the strainer.

Bowls: You’ll need bowls to serve the ramen in. I like to use a small bowl to serve my fresh ramen noodles, but big bowls work just as well.

Overall, making Korean ramen is very simple and so delicious!

10 tips and tricks for making the best vegan ramen recipe

Here are 10 tips and tricks to make the best vegan Korean ramen:

1. Use good quality Korean instant noodles for an authentic flavor.

2. Add plenty of vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, zucchini, and spinach for a healthier and heartier ramen.

3. Use vegetable broth for a richer and more flavorful soup.

4. Add gochujang (Korean chili paste) for a spicy kick.

5. Use sesame oil for a nutty and aromatic flavor.

6. Add garlic and ginger for added depth and complexity of flavor.

7. Use soy sauce or tamari for a savory and umami taste.

8. Experiment with different toppings like green onions, sesame seeds, nori, tofu, and kimchi.

9. Adjust seasoning according to your taste preferences.

10. Make sure to serve your ramen hot and enjoy it with your favorite hot drink or beverage.

Here’s a tasty vegan Korean ramen recipe for you made with nutritious plant-based ingredients that pack a tasty flavor punch.

Easy Key Ingredients for vegan ramen:

• 2 packs of Korean instant noodles – Korean noodles are different from other types of noodles because they are often made with wheat flour and have a slightly chewy texture. They are also typically thicker than other types of noodles and have a yellowish color. Korean ramen noodles are often used in soups and stews and are known for their ability to absorb flavors well. Additionally, Korean ramen noodles are often served in dishes, with the noodles helping to balance the heat. Some Korean ramen noodles also include additional ingredients, such as vegetable or seaweed extract, to enhance the flavor and nutritional value of the noodles. Any types of noodles will work in this recipe, so if you can’t get Korean ramen noodles just use your favorite noodles you can easily get from most grocery stores. For a gluten-free ramen recipe I recommend using rice noodles or your preferred gluten-free noodles.
• Two tbsp sesame oil – sesame oil is great for frying vegetables because of its high smoke point…but it also adds a nutty and delicious flavor to the dish. For nut-free Vegan ramen, you can replace sesame oil with vegetable oil like avocado oil, coconut oil, or sunflower oil.
• Onions – 1 large onion, chopped + 1 tbsp minced garlic
• 1/2 cup sliced shiitake mushrooms – the shiitake mushrooms make up our vegan chicken. Sauteed to golden brown perfection, its meaty umami flavor is the key difference to making the vegetarian version of the traditional chicken ramen taste like the real thing without the use of any animal products. Alternatively, you can substitute the shiitake king oyster mushrooms or wood ear mushrooms that you can get at most local Asian supermarkets. 
• Extra veggies – 1/2 cup sliced carrots  and 1/2 cup sliced zucchini 

Flavorings and sauce

• 1/4 cup soy sauce 
• 2 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste) – if you can’t get this tasty Korean chili paste at your local grocery store or health food store you can usually find it on Amazon. Alternatively, you can substitute it with miso sauce and Korean chili flakes (or regular chili flakes) mixed with a little rice vinegar and soy sauce to make your own chili paste. Note: you can also use your favorite medium spiced chili paste. 
• Liquid – 4 cups vegetable broth + 2 cups water 
• 1 tbsp brown sugar 
• A tsp black pepper

Easy cooking Instructions to make the best vegan Korean Ramen

• Cook the Korean instant noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
• Heat the sesame oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until the onion is translucent.
• Add the shiitake mushrooms, carrots, and zucchini and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes, until the vegetables are soft.
• Add the soy sauce and gochujang and stir to combine.
• Pour in the vegetable broth and water and stir well. Add the brown sugar and black pepper and stir to combine.
• Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes.
• Divide the cooked Korean instant noodles into four serving bowls and ladle the soup on top.
• Serve hot with your desired toppings, such as sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and chili flakes.
• Enjoy your delicious vegan Korean ramen!

Here are 10 great vegetables that you can add to your ramen:

1. Bok choy: This leafy green vegetable is a common addition to ramen. It’s tender, crispy and adds a bit of sweetness to the broth.

2. Bean sprouts: These crunchy sprouts add a nice texture and freshness to the soup.

3. Carrots: Thinly sliced carrots add a pop of color and natural sweetness to the dish.

4. Corn: Sweet corn kernels add a burst of flavor and texture to the bowl.

5. Mushrooms: Sliced mushrooms, such as shiitake or oyster mushrooms, add a savory and earthy flavor to the broth.

6. Scallions: Chopped scallions add a bright and fresh flavor to the ramen.

7. Spinach: This leafy green vegetable wilts quickly in the hot broth, adding a pop of green color and some extra nutrition.

8. Seaweed: Dried seaweed, such as nori or wakame, can be added to the broth for a salty and slightly chewy texture.

9. Bamboo shoots: Sliced bamboo shoots add a unique tangy flavor and crunchy texture to the ramen.

10. Jalapeños: Thinly sliced jalapeños can add a bit of spice to the ramen and elevate the flavor profile.

Plus a few extra veggies that are amazing in Korean Ramen

11. Edamame: These are steamed soybeans that make a great snack or side dish. They are high in protein and fiber and are gluten-free.

12. Grilled or roasted vegetables: You can grill or roast a variety of vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, or asparagus, to serve as a side dish with your ramen.

These are just a few of the many great vegetables that you can add to your ramen. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables to find the combination that you like best. Regardless of what you add, adding vegetables to your ramen will not only enhance the flavor and nutritional value of the dish, but it will also add some color and texture to your bowl. Enjoy!

What to serve with Korean Ramen

Korean ramen can be served as a standalone dish, but it’s also great to pair it with other Korean side dishes to make a complete meal. Here are some popular Korean dishes that can be served alongside Korean ramen:

1. Kimchi:

This is a spicy and tangy fermented vegetable dish that is a staple in Korean cuisine. It adds a nice contrast to the richness of the kimchi noodle soup ramen.

2. Pickled vegetables:

Pickled cucumbers, radishes, and carrots are refreshing and add a crunch to the meal.

3. Korean fried chicken (or vegan chicken):

Korean fried chicken is a popular appetizer or side dish that is crispy and flavorful. It can be served with a variety of dipping sauces.

4. Mandu (dumplings):

These steamed or fried dumplings can be filled with a variety of ingredients, such as vegetables, meat, or seafood. They are perfect for dipping in the soup or eaten on their own.

5. Japchae (stir-fried glass noodles):

This dish is made with sweet potato noodles, vegetables, and sometimes meat or tofu. It’s a great side dish that can also be eaten as a main dish.

6. Tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes):

These chewy rice cakes are cooked in a spicy sauce made with gochujang, soy sauce, and sugar. They are a popular street food in Korea and can make a great side dish or snack.

7. Banchan (assorted side dishes):

Koreans typically serve several side dishes along with their meals. Banchan can include a variety of dishes such as pickled vegetables, seaweed salad, marinated tofu, or braised potatoes.

8. Manduguk (dumpling soup):

This is a Korean soup made with mandu (dumplings) and a clear broth. It pairs well with ramen and is particularly comforting on a chilly day.

Overall, many side dishes can be served with Korean ramen. The key is to balance the richness of the ramen with fresh, light, and flavorful accompaniments.

How to cook wood ear mushrooms for ramen

Wood ear mushrooms are a delicious and nutritious addition to ramen. Here’s how to prepare them:

Ingredients:

• Dried wood ear mushrooms
• Water

Instructions for cooking Wood Ear Mushrooms

1. Soak the dried wood ear mushrooms in a bowl of cold water for at least 30 minutes. The mushrooms will absorb water and expand in size.

2. Drain the mushrooms and rinse them under cold water to remove any dirt or debris.

3. Bring a pot of water to a boil and add the mushrooms. Boil for 5-10 minutes until the mushrooms are tender.

4. Drain the mushrooms and rinse them again under cold water.

5. Squeeze out any excess water from the mushrooms and slice them into thin strips.

6. Add the sliced mushrooms to your ramen broth and cook for a few minutes until heated through.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy ramen with wood ear mushrooms!

Ramen vs Noodles

Ramen is a type of noodle dish that originated in Japan. It consists of Chinese-style wheat noodles served in a savory broth with various toppings such as sliced pork, green onions, and egg. Ramen noodles are typically thin and have a slightly chewy texture.

On the other hand, “noodles” is a broader term that refers to a variety of foods made from unleavened dough that is rolled, cut, and cooked. Noodles can be made from wheat flour, rice flour, or other types of flour. They can be served in a variety of ways, such as in soups, stir-fries, or salads, and can be topped with a variety of ingredients, such as vegetables, meats, seafood, or tofu.

So while ramen is a specific type of noodle dish, noodles in general can be used in many different dishes and prepared in various ways.

Soba Noodles vs. Ramen noodles

Ramen and Soba noodles are both popular Japanese dishes, but they have some differences.

Soba noodles are made from buckwheat flour and are thinner than ramen noodles. They have a nutty flavor, are typically served cold with a dipping sauce, and are a popular option for a quick and healthy meal. Soba noodles are also gluten-free, making them a great option for people with gluten allergies or sensitivities.

Ramen, on the other hand, is made with wheat flour, salt, water, and kansui (an alkaline mineral water). The noodles are thick and chewy, and are typically served in a hot broth with meat, vegetables, and other toppings. Ramen is a hearty meal that is perfect for colder weather or when you’re looking for a satisfying meal.

Overall, soba noodles and ramen are both delicious Japanese dishes, and which one you prefer will depend on your personal taste and what kind of meal you’re in the mood for.

How to make ramen gluten-free

There are several gluten-free noodle options that you can use for ramen, including:

1. Rice noodles: These are made from rice flour and are gluten-free. They have a similar texture to wheat noodles and are a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.

2. Buckwheat noodles: Also known as soba noodles, these are made from buckwheat flour and are a popular gluten-free option. They have a slightly nutty flavor and are often used in Japanese cuisine.

3. Sweet potato noodles: Made from sweet potato starch, these noodles have a chewy texture and are commonly used in Korean cuisine.

4. Zucchini noodles: For a low-carb, gluten-free option, you can spiralize zucchini into thin noodles. They have a mild flavor that pairs well with any broth or sauce.

FAQs – All your Korean Ramen Questions answered

More Korean Ramen FAQs

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