Description
This Saucy Ramen Noodles recipe is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for a satisfying meal in under 30 minutes. Combining tender ramen noodles with a rich, savory sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, and a touch of sweetness, this recipe highlights sautéed tofu and vegetables for a deliciously balanced, comforting bowl. Finished with a sprinkle of scallions and sesame seeds, the dish delivers layers of taste and texture, ideal for a simple yet impressive weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Noodles and Protein
- 2 servings dry instant ramen noodles (about 140g)
- 10 oz extra firm tofu, sliced (can substitute with veggies or mushrooms)
Sauce
- 1 cup water or vegetable broth
- 5-7 tbsp soy sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1.5 tsp dark soy sauce (optional, for color)
- 2-3 tbsp cornstarch
- 1-3 tbsp sugar, maple syrup, or other sweetener (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar, white vinegar, or lemon juice (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp ground pepper
- 1/2 tbsp chili garlic sauce (optional, for spice)
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
Garnish
- Chopped scallions
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
- Make the Sauce: In a bowl, combine water or vegetable broth, soy sauces, cornstarch, sweetener, vinegar or lemon juice, ground pepper, chili garlic sauce if using, sesame oil, and minced garlic. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well blended. Adjust the seasoning to your taste and set aside.
- Cook the Noodles: Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the dry instant ramen noodles and cook just halfway according to package instructions, usually about 2 minutes. Drain the noodles and set them aside to prevent overcooking.
- Sauté the Tofu and Veggies: Heat sesame oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced tofu and vegetables of your choice. Sauté until the tofu is golden brown and the veggies are tender, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to cook evenly.
- Cook the Noodles in Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet with the tofu and veggies. Add the partially cooked noodles and gently toss everything together, coating the noodles well with the sauce. Allow the mixture to cook for 2-3 minutes, letting the sauce thicken and the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Transfer the saucy ramen noodles to serving bowls. Garnish with chopped scallions and sesame seeds. Serve hot and enjoy the delicious combination of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors.
Notes
- Adjust soy sauce and sweetener amounts to balance salty and sweet to your preference.
- Use vegetable broth instead of water to deepen the sauce flavor.
- Extra firm tofu works best to hold shape during sautéing.
- Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for variety.
- Chili garlic sauce can be omitted or adjusted based on your spice tolerance.
- Ensure to cook noodles halfway in boiling water before adding to sauce to prevent sogginess.
