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Turn everyday kitchen staples into a bowl of mouth-watering shiny ramen noodles better than what you'd get at a restaurant. This quick 25-minute dish perfectly blends sweet, salty and tart tastes, wrapping each noodle in a smooth, rich sauce. Whether you want a fast lunch or filling dinner, these adaptable noodles give you top-notch flavor without much work.
I came up with this dish during my university days after trying tons of ways to jazz up basic instant ramen. These days it's what I make when I need something quick and filling that even picky kids will happily gobble up.
Key Ingredients
Fresh or packaged ramen noodles work as the foundation
Both light and dark soy sauce add richness and hue
Cornstarch helps create that wonderful glossy finish
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Rice vinegar brings needed tang to the mix
Sesame oil completely changes the flavor profile
Fresh garlic adds that essential zing
Making Fantastic Noodles
Mix your soy sauces with cornstarch until it's lump-free.
Boil noodles until they're still a bit firm, not soggy.
Make sure your pan is good and hot before you start.
Pour in sauce bit by bit while keeping it moving.
Toss everything together until it's nicely coated.
Tweak the flavors to your liking before you dig in.
After many midnight cooking experiments, I've learned that getting your pan temperature just right is the secret to that awesome restaurant-quality finish we all want.
Tasty Pairing Suggestions
Make these noodles into a full meal by throwing in proteins and veggies you like. Balance it with a cool cucumber salad with a splash of rice vinegar, or top with a runny soft-boiled egg. For some crunch, scatter some toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top.
Tasty Variations
Switch up this dish to fit what you're in the mood for or what's in your fridge. Toss in shrimp, chicken or tofu for something heartier. Change it with different veggies like bok choy, snap peas or mushrooms. Add more flavor with a dollop of miso paste, or bring some heat with chili oil or sriracha.
Keeping It Fresh
Your noodles will stay good in a sealed container in the fridge for up to three days. When you warm them up, add a bit of water to thin the sauce. For meal planning, keep the sauce apart and mix it in when you're ready to eat.
Dinner Rescue
This dish has bailed me out on so many busy nights. One crazy evening, these noodles turned some leftover veggies and pantry basics into a dinner that had everyone asking for more. This dish works so well for both eating alone or feeding unexpected guests.
Health Perks
Learn how this fast meal can fill you up and be good for you too. Throw in veggies for nutrients and fiber, add some protein to keep you full, and enjoy a homemade dish that beats takeout any day.
Expert Advice
Brown sesame seeds first for a richer nutty taste
Have all sauce stuff measured out and ready to go
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Go with your gut when adjusting the seasoning
My relationship with these saucy noodles has grown from just wanting something tasty to a favorite recipe that makes busy days better. Just remember, great food doesn't need to be fancy - often the easiest recipes make the most satisfying meals.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What proteins work best?
- Try mushrooms, tofu, tempeh or veggies. They all taste great!
- → How to thicken a runny sauce?
- Mix cornstarch with water and stir it in.
- → What if I want extra heat?
- You can toss in some sriracha or chili garlic sauce.
- → Which noodles should I use?
- Any instant noodles are good. Skip the flavoring packet.
- → Can I make it ahead of time?
- It’s better fresh, but you can prep the sauce in advance.