Easy Miso Ramen Recipe
There’s nothing more satisfying than a steaming bowl of spicy miso ramen on a chilly day. This fan-freaking-fantastic easy miso ramen recipe combines rich flavors, tender noodles, and customizable toppings to create a comforting meal that you’ll want to make again and again.
Originating from Hokkaido, Japan, spicy miso ramen is especially popular during the cold winter months. Its hearty broth and warming spices make it a favorite for cozy nights and festive occasions. Using miso ginger broth can further enhance the flavor profile of the dish. This spicy miso ramen recipe brings the authentic taste of Japan right to your kitchen.
This recipe was inspired by my homemade tonkotsu ramen and pairs well with our other Japanese recipes. Together, they make a delightful meal that’s both satisfying and authentic.
Jump to:
- Introduction to Miso Ramen
- The Benefits of Homemade Ramen
- Miso Ramen Recipe Ingredients
- Understanding Miso Paste
- The Role of Soy Sauce in Miso Ramen
- Choosing the Right Ramen Noodles
- Miso Ramen Recipe Instructions
- Chef’s Note
- Substitutions
- Variations
- Miso Ramen Recipe Equipment
- Miso Ramen Recipe Storage
- Top Tip
- FAQ
- Related
- Pairing
- Japanese Spicy Miso Ramen Recipe
Introduction to Miso Ramen
Miso Ramen is a beloved Japanese noodle soup that has captured the hearts and taste buds of food enthusiasts around the globe. This delightful dish features a harmonious blend of ramen noodles, a savory broth, and an array of toppings like vegetables, meat, and soft boiled eggs. Originating in Japan in the early 20th century, traditional ramen has evolved into various delicious forms, with miso ramen standing out for its unique flavor profile. The secret lies in the miso paste, which infuses the broth with a comforting, umami-rich taste that’s both savory and slightly sweet. Whether you’re a ramen aficionado or a curious newcomer, miso ramen promises a satisfying culinary experience.
The Benefits of Homemade Ramen
Making homemade ramen is not only a culinary adventure but also a healthier and more customizable option compared to store-bought or instant ramen. When you prepare ramen at home, you have the freedom to tailor the ingredients and flavors to suit your dietary needs and preferences. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for those with food allergies or intolerances. Additionally, homemade ramen allows you to better control the sodium content by using low-sodium broth and simple seasonings, making it a healthier choice. Beyond the health benefits, the process of making ramen from scratch can be incredibly rewarding. It’s an opportunity to experiment with new ingredients, discover unique flavor combinations, and create a dish that’s truly your own.
Miso Ramen Recipe Ingredients
To create the most authentic and flavorful miso ramen, we’ve selected ingredients that balance heat, umami, and rich textures. This easy spicy miso ramen recipe uses a combination of white and red miso paste to add depth to the broth, while sesame oil enhances its richness. Choose your preferred protein and top with fresh ingredients for a customizable dish.
- Ramen noodles
- White miso paste
- Red miso paste
- Chicken broth
- Sesame oil
- Chili paste or chili garlic sauce
- Garlic
- Proteins (choose one): pork belly, sliced pork tenderloin, tofu, chicken breast, ground pork
- Toppings (choose as many as you like): soft-boiled eggs, Menma (seasoned bamboo), green onions, nori (seaweed), sautéed spinach, sliced, sautéed mushrooms, shiitake mushrooms, chili oil
See recipe card for quantities.
Understanding Miso Paste
Miso paste is the cornerstone of miso ramen, lending the dish its distinctive umami flavor. Made from fermented soybeans, salt, and koji (a type of fungus), miso paste undergoes a fermentation process that results in its rich, savory, and slightly sweet taste. There are several types of miso paste, each with its own unique flavor profile. White miso (shiro miso) is milder and sweeter, while red miso (aka miso) is more robust and salty due to a longer fermentation period. Yellow miso falls somewhere in between. This versatile ingredient is not only essential for miso ramen but also enhances the flavor of various Japanese dishes, including soups, sauces, and marinades.
The Role of Soy Sauce in Miso Ramen
Soy sauce is a vital ingredient in miso ramen, adding depth and complexity to the broth. Made from fermented soybeans, water, and salt, soy sauce boasts a rich, savory flavor that is both salty and slightly sweet. In the context of miso ramen, soy sauce works in harmony with miso paste and sesame oil to elevate the umami taste of the broth. It’s this combination of ingredients that creates the rich, layered flavors that make miso ramen so irresistible. Whether you’re using a dash of soy sauce to enhance the broth or as a seasoning for your protein, it’s an indispensable component of this delicious recipe.
Choosing the Right Ramen Noodles
Selecting the right ramen noodles is crucial for achieving the perfect texture and flavor in your miso ramen. There are several options to choose from, including fresh, dried, and instant ramen noodles. Fresh ramen noodles are often preferred for their chewy texture and superior ability to absorb the flavors of the broth. If fresh noodles are not available, dried ramen noodles are a great alternative and can be easily rehydrated by soaking them in hot water. Instant ramen noodles offer convenience and ease of use, making them a popular choice for quick meals. However, they may lack the texture and depth of flavor found in fresh or dried noodles. Whichever type you choose, the right noodles will make your miso ramen a truly satisfying dish.
Miso Ramen Recipe Instructions
Follow these steps to create your own delicious bowl using this easy miso ramen recipe. Remember to prepare your ingredients beforehand for a smooth cooking experience.
- Step 1: Make Miso Paste
In a medium bowl, mix together white miso paste, red miso paste, garlic, and 3 tablespoons of water.
- Step 2: (Optional) Prepare Protein & Veggies
Use 1 tablespoon of the miso paste as a seasoning for your protein. Fully cook your chosen protein, thinly slice, and keep warm.
If adding spinach or mushrooms, sauté them during this step and keep warm.
- Step 3: Make Miso Broth
Fill a medium pot ¾ full of water, cover, and bring to a boil.
In a separate large stockpot, warm half of the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the miso paste from step 1 and sauté for 2-3 minutes.
Add 6 cups of chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 8-10 minutes.
- Step 4: (Optional) Cook Eggs
Gently lower eggs into the boiling water from step 3 and boil for 8-10 minutes (8 for soft-boiled, 10 for hard-boiled). Prepare an ice bath.
Once cooked, transfer the eggs to the ice bath for 2-3 minutes. Peel the eggs and keep warm.
- Step 5: Cook Noodles
Add the ramen noodles to the boiling water from step 3 and cook for 3-4 minutes.
Drain using a colander and rinse the noodles under warm water. Toss noodles in a little oil to prevent sticking.
- Step 6: Plate & Serve!
Divide cooked noodles between large soup bowls. Ladle the miso broth over the noodles and add your favorite toppings: menma, green onions, nori, sesame oil, and chili garlic sauce.
(Optional) Serve with halved boiled eggs, prepared protein, and sautéed spinach and mushrooms.
Enjoy your meal! どうぞめしあがれ (douzo meshiagare)
Hint: To prevent the noodles from sticking together, toss them with a little sesame oil after draining. This adds extra flavor and keeps them from clumping.
Chef’s Note
“For an extra depth of flavor in this miso ramen recipe, consider adding a dash of soy sauce or a sprinkle of bonito flakes to your broth.”
Substitutions
If you need to adjust the recipe to fit specific dietary needs, here are some substitutions that work well without compromising flavor.
- Vegetarian/Vegan – Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit the white miso paste if making it vegan. Replace animal proteins with tofu.
- Gluten-Free – Substitute regular ramen noodles with gluten-free noodles or rice noodles. Ensure miso paste and other ingredients are gluten-free certified.
- Low-Sodium – Choose low-sodium broth and miso paste to reduce the salt content.
Even if you don’t follow a specific diet, these substitutions can be helpful when cooking for friends or family with dietary restrictions.
Variations
Here are some delicious variations to customize your miso ramen and delight your taste buds. Different ramen recipes can be tailored to suit various dietary preferences and flavor profiles.
- Extra Spicy Miso Ramen – Increase the amount of chili garlic sauce or add fresh sliced chilies to the broth for an even spicier miso ramen recipe.
- Seafood Miso Ramen – Incorporate shrimp, squid, or scallops as your protein choice.
- Miso Butter Corn Ramen – Add sautéed corn kernels and a pat of butter to the toppings for a rich, sweet flavor.
Miso Ramen Recipe Equipment
Using the right equipment can enhance the cooking process and the final result of your miso ramen recipe. You’ll need a medium pot for boiling water, a large stockpot for the broth, and a colander for draining noodles. Ramen bowls are optional but add to the authentic experience. If you’re looking to upgrade your serve ware, check out my favorite ramen bowls.
Miso Ramen Recipe Storage
Store leftover broth and noodles separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The broth can be stored for up to 3 days, while the noodles are best used within 1-2 days. Reheat the broth on the stove and refresh the noodles in hot water before serving. Toppings should be stored separately as well. The broth can also be frozen for up to a month.
Top Tip
To enhance the umami flavor in this easy miso ramen recipe, consider adding a small piece of kombu (dried kelp) to the broth while simmering. Remove it before serving for a deeper, more complex taste.
FAQ
Ramen with miso can be a nutritious meal when prepared thoughtfully. Miso, a fermented soybean paste used in the broth, is rich in probiotics that support gut health. It also provides essential nutrients like vitamins B and K, and minerals such as zinc, manganese, and copper.
However, traditional miso ramen can be high in sodium and calories, especially when made with fatty meats and refined noodles. Here are some considerations to make it a healthier option:
Choose Whole-Grain Noodles: Opt for whole-grain or buckwheat noodles to increase fiber content.
Add Vegetables: Incorporate plenty of vegetables like spinach, bok choy, mushrooms, and seaweed to boost vitamins and minerals.
Select Lean Proteins: Use tofu, chicken breast, or seafood instead of fatty cuts of pork to reduce saturated fat.
Mind the Sodium: Look for low-sodium miso paste and broths, and be cautious with added soy sauce or other salty condiments.
Control Portions: Enjoy reasonable serving sizes to keep calorie intake in check.
In moderation and with these adjustments, miso ramen can be part of a balanced diet, providing both comfort and nutritional benefits.
Miso ramen broth is a rich and savory soup base primarily made from miso paste, a fermented soybean paste that imparts deep umami flavor. The broth typically starts with chicken, pork, or vegetable stock, to which both white (shiro) and red (aka) miso pastes are added for a balanced depth of flavor. Common ingredients include garlic, ginger, and sesame oil to enhance the taste, and sometimes chili garlic sauce for a spicy kick.
Miso ramen commonly utilizes either red miso (aka miso), white miso (shiro miso), or a combination of both to craft its savory broth. Red miso is fermented longer, resulting in a deeper, more robust flavor that’s slightly salty and rich in umami. In contrast, white miso is fermented for a shorter period, offering a milder, sweeter taste. Combining both types balances the broth’s sweetness and depth, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the ramen.
Related
Looking for other recipes like this? Try these:
Pairing
These are my favorite dishes to serve with this miso ramen recipe:
Japanese Spicy Miso Ramen Recipe
Ingredients
- 12 oz Ramen noodles
- 4 tablespoon White miso paste (omit for vegan)
- 3.5 tablespoon Red miso paste
- 6 cups Chicken broth
- 2-3 tablespoon Sesame oil (use more sesame oil if you omitted white miso)
- 2 teaspoon Garlic
Proteins (choose 1):
- 6-8 oz Pork belly sliced
- 8-10 oz Pork tenderloin
- 6-8 oz Tofu
- 8-10 oz Chicken breast
- ½ lb Ground pork
Toppings (choose as many as you like):
- 2-4 Eggs soft-boiled
- 1 jar Menma (seasoned bamboo)
- 2-4 tablespoon Chili garlic sauce
- ¼ cup Green onions
- 4 sheets Nori (seaweed)
- 1-2 cups Spinach sauteed
- 1 cup Mushrooms sliced, sauteed
Instructions
Make Miso Paste
- In a medium bowl, mix together miso, garlic, and 3 Tbsp. of water.
(Optional) Protein & Veggies
- Use 1 Tbsp. of the miso paste as a seasoning for your protein. Fully cook your protein, thinly slice, and keep warm.
- If adding spinach or mushrooms, sautee during this step and keep warm.
Make Miso Broth
- Fill a medium pot ¾ full of water, cover, and bring to a boil.
- In a separate large stock pot, warm half of the sesame oil on medium heat. Add the miso paste from step 1 and saute for 2-3 minutes.
- Add 8 cups of water and broth packets. Bring stock to a boil on high heat and then lower heat and simmer for 8-10 minutes.
(Optional) Cook Eggs
- Gently lower eggs into the medium pot of boiling water from step 3 and boil for 8-10 minutes (8 for soft, 10 for hard-boiled). Prepare an ice bath for the eggs by adding ½ ice and ½ cold water to a medium bowl. Important: keep the boiling water for step 5!
- When the eggs are done, place them in the ice bath for 2-3 minutes. Peel the eggs by cracking on a hard surface and rolling until shell becomes loose. Remove the shells and keep warm.
Cook Noodles
- Add the ramen noodles to the medium pot of boiling water from step 3 and cook for 3-4 minutes.
- Drain using a colander and rinse the noodles under warm water. Tip: toss noodles in a little oil to prevent them from sticking.
Plate & Serve!
- Divide cooked noodles between large soup bowls, ladle the miso broth over the noodles, and add your favorite toppings: menma (seasoned bamboo), green onions, nori (seaweed), sesame oil, and chili garlic sauce (spicy)!
- (Optional) serve with halved boiled eggs, prepared protein, and/or sauteed spinach and mushrooms.
- Enhance your meal with a music playlist takeoutkit.com/playlists
- どうぞめしあがれ douzo meshiagare “Enjoy your meal!”
Rachael says
So happy with this recipe. Yum!