Ah, ramen noodles—those curly, comforting wisps of goodness. Just the thought of them takes me back to late-night college cram sessions, when the microwave was my best friend and flavor packets felt like a culinary adventure. This Chicken Ramen Noodle Stir Fry? It’s like fast food, but you know, not the greasy kind—think easy, quick, and somehow both nostalgic and brand new.
Steps
- Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil and cook the noodles according to their package instructions. Be mindful not to overcook them as ramen noodles typically take about 2 minutes to cook, slightly longer if they’re gluten-free.
- In a pan, heat olive or vegetable oil and add minced garlic, scallions, and grated ginger. Sauté until the garlic turns golden brown and releases a fragrant aroma.
- Incorporate edamame and your choice of vegetables into the pan. Stir-fry until the vegetables are tender or have wilted, depending on your preference.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the sauce ingredients: low sodium soy sauce or tamari, vegetable broth, toasted sesame oil, sriracha, and sweet chili sauce.
- Mix the cooked noodles with the prepared sauce and vegetables in the pan. Allow them to combine over very low heat, letting the flavors meld together. Adjust the seasoning by adding more soy sauce if needed.
- Serve the stir fry garnished with sesame seeds and the remaining chopped scallions. Enjoy your meal immediately for the best taste!
Ingredients
- 6 ounces ramen noodles (equivalent to 2 blocks)
- 2 cups fresh chopped broccoli, bok choy, or other veggies of choice
- ½ cup shelled edamame
- 5 cloves of garlic, minced (approximately 2 1/2 teaspoons)
- 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger (can substitute with 1 teaspoon dried ginger)
- ? cup chopped green onions/scallions (use the white part for the stir fry)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable or olive oil
- 3-4 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce or tamari (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable or chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust based on spice preference)
- 1 tablespoon sweet chili sauce (or more if you prefer it sweeter)
Nutritional Values
Calories: 1608kcal | Carbohydrates: 160g | Protein: 48g | Fat: 88g | Saturated Fat: 24g | Fiber: 8g | Sugar: 8g
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of noodle instead of ramen?
- Absolutely! While ramen noodles are a popular choice, any long, spaghetti-like noodle will work well in this stir fry. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try brown rice spaghetti noodles.
- What vegetables can I include in the stir fry?
- You can use a variety of vegetables based on your preference. Popular choices include broccoli, bok choy, and edamame, but carrots, cabbage, and bell peppers are also delicious options.
- How can I adjust the saltiness of the dish?
- Start by adding 2-3 tablespoons of low-sodium soy sauce and taste as you go. You can always add more if you prefer it saltier, but it’s easier to add than to take away.
- Does the stir fry store well for meal prep?
- Yes, it stores well in the refrigerator for a few days, making it ideal for meal prep. Just ensure it’s cooled completely before storing. Note that tofu may lose its crispiness, but it can be refreshed by reheating on the stove with a little oil.
- What protein can I add to the stir fry to make it a complete meal?
- You can add proteins like tofu, chicken, or salmon to the stir fry. Pan fry your chosen protein with a bit of oil and soy sauce, and garnish with sesame seeds for added flavor.
Tips
- Cook Ramen Noodles Precisely: Ramen noodles cook very quickly, typically in about 2 minutes, but if you are using gluten-free noodles, they may take a bit longer. Be careful not to overcook them to prevent a chewy or soggy texture.
- Customize Your Vegetables: Feel free to substitute the suggested vegetables with your favorites. If you’re not a fan of broccoli, try using carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a delicious variation.
- Use Toasted Sesame Oil for Flavor: Ensure you use toasted sesame oil instead of regular sesame oil. This will enhance the overall flavor profile of the stir fry.
- Adjust the Sauce to Your Taste: Start with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce or tamari and increase as desired. If you prefer a more saucy or salty dish, you might consider using up to 4-5 tablespoons, but begin with less and adjust according to your preference.
Equipment
- Large Pot – For boiling the noodles.
- Frying Pan or Wok – Essential for stir-frying the vegetables and combining the ingredients.
- Grater – For grating fresh ginger.
- Whisk – To mix the sauce ingredients thoroughly.
- Mixing Bowls – For preparing and combining the sauce ingredients.
