How To Make Korean Style Ramen

Ramen noodles are a Japanese dish that have been adopted by Koreans and made their own. There are instant variations called Rameyon that hit the mark for some, but nothing compares to home cooked food!

Korean style ramen, or “ramyeon,” evolved from Japanese ramen in the 1960s and quickly became a staple in Korean cuisine. Its transformation included unique ingredients and flavours, setting it apart from its Japanese roots.

Popular due to its quick preparation and rich taste, Korean ramen has become a popular comfort food. This evolution reflects Korea’s ability to adapt and innovate, blending Japanese influences with local ingredients to create a dish that is distinctively Korean yet universally loved.

These noodles are typically served in a beef or chicken broth and topped with vegetables, meat, and eggs. This dish is hearty and filling, making it the perfect meal for a cold winter day. In this blog post, we will give you a step-by-step guide on how to make Korean style ramen noodles.

Ingredients:
-1 package of ramen noodles
-2 cups of water
-1/2 cup of chicken broth
-1 tablespoon of soy sauce
-1 tablespoon of gochujang (Korean chili paste)
-1 clove of garlic, minced
-1 teaspoon of ginger, minced
-1 green onion, thinly sliced
-2 eggs, lightly beaten
-4 ounces of thinly sliced beef
-1/4 cup of mung bean sprouts
-1/4 cup of carrots, julienned
To Make:

Gochujang, a spicy and savoury fermented paste, is a key element of Korean cooking. Made from red chili powder, glutinous rice, and fermented soybeans, it’s known for its complex and robust flavour.

This paste enhances the heat in Korean ramen and adds an umami-rich depth that distinguishes the dish from its Japanese counterpart. Its balanced blend of sweetness and spice is a core part of Korean flavour profiles, making it a must-have ingredient in traditional and modern Korean dishes.

In a small pot, bring the water to a boil. Add the ramen noodles and cook for 3 minutes.

In a separate pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the soy sauce, gochujang paste, garlic, ginger, and green onion. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes.

Drain the noodles and add them to the broth mixture. Let the soup simmer for 2 more minutes.

Achieving the right noodle texture is key to a satisfying ramen experience. Cook the noodles to al dente to ensure they are firm yet tender, avoiding overcooking, which can lead to soggy noodles.

Stirring the noodles gently during cooking helps them cook evenly, while rinsing them in cold water after boiling can prevent them from sticking together. These simple tips make a significant difference in creating the ideal soft, yet chewy, ramen noodles that retain their shape in the broth.

Divide the soup evenly into two bowls. Top each bowl with an egg, beef slices, bean sprouts, and carrots. Serve immediately.

Korean ramen offers a variety of flavourful spins. Kimchi ramen incorporates the tangy and spicy notes of kimchi, while seafood ramen includes an assortment of fresh seafood, adding a rich depth.

For those who enjoy more spice, spicy ramen options abound, raising the heat levels for thrill-seekers. These variations use different broths and toppings but share a common goal of bringing warmth and satisfaction to the table, allowing adaptation to personal taste preferences.

Korean ramen, when prepared with fresh ingredients, can be a nutritious meal choice. With lean protein from eggs and beef, it is rich in vital amino acids. The vegetables provide fibre and vitamins, while the broth includes minerals beneficial for warmth and recovery in cold weather.

Although high in sodium, homemade versions allow control over seasoning levels. This delicious noodle soup can fit into a balanced diet, offering a comforting meal that’s both hearty and nourishing.

There you have it! A delicious and hearty bowl of Korean style ramen noodles that you can make in the comfort of your own home. This dish is perfect for students or travellers who are looking for an easy meal that is both filling and packed with flavor. Be sure to try out this recipe next time you are craving something warm and satisfying! Let us know if you can improve it!