Vegan cuisine is becoming more popular than ever in households across the globe, as more people become aware of the benefits of plant-based diets. But just because something is labeled vegan, doesn’t necessarily mean it’s healthy! Take vegan ramen as an example: Beyond a simple application of buckwheat noodles in water, this popular meal can be taken to a whole new level with a few creative touches.
If you’re ready to try your hand at vegan ramen, look no further! This guide has everything you need to create a delicious meal that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds. Read on to learn how to make vegan ramen!
Choose Your Base
The most important part of vegan ramen is the base. The broth or stock is the foundation for your dish and sets the tone for the rest of the ingredients. You’ll have plenty of options – like miso, vegetable, mushroom or soymilk broth – to choose from and create whatever flavor profile you’d like.
For a savory vegan ramen, consider using a miso-based broth. Miso is a fermented soybean paste and a key ingredient in Japanese cooking. It’s rich in umami flavor and provides a depth of flavor and complexity to your broth. To make a miso-based vegan ramen broth, simmer two cups of vegetable stock with two tablespoons of miso paste, one teaspoon of soy sauce, a pinch of salt, and a few drops of sesame oil.
Vegetable stock or broth is another common base for vegan ramen and adds a unique flavor that can vary based on the vegetables used. To make this kind of broth, simply simmer a selection of vegetables – like carrots, onions, and celery – together in salted water until you’ve achieved the desired flavor.
Mushroom broth is a flavorful option and commonly used in vegan ramen recipes. This type of broth gives your dish a rich and earthy flavor that complements the ingredients and spices you’ll be adding later in the cooking process. To make a mushroom-based vegan ramen broth, simmer four cups of vegetable stock with a cup of dried shiitake mushrooms, one tablespoon of soy sauce, one teaspoon of sesame oil, a pinch of salt, and a few drops of red chili paste.
Add Vegetables
Vegetables are a must-have when creating vegan ramen. These ingredients not only provide essential vitamins and minerals, but also add texture and flavor to the dish.
Consider adding fresh, crunchy carrots, green onions, and bok choy for an added pop of color. Or, opt for roasted bell peppers or zucchini for an even greater depth of flavor.
If you’re looking for a heartier vegan ramen, try adding some steamed kale, Swiss chard, or tofu to the mix. These plant-based proteins will help keep you feeling full and satisfied long after your meal is finished.
Include Seasonings and Garnishes
Now it’s time to get creative! To create an authentic vegan ramen, you’ll need to include a few seasonings and garnishes. There’s no wrong answer when it comes to adding spices and herbs, so play around until you find the perfect combination.
For an Asian-inspired vegan ramen, consider adding a dash of dried sweet chili powder, as well as some freshly ground ginger and garlic. A few drops of sesame oil and a sprinkling of freshly-cracked black pepper will also help to bring out the flavors of the other ingredients.
For the garnish, try adding toasted sesame seeds, fresh cilantro, or scallions for an added crunch. You can also top your ramen off with a handful of freshly-chopped shiso leaves or mung bean sprouts for a pop of freshness.
Cook the Noodles
Once you’ve got your vegetables and seasonings in order, the next step is to cook the noodles. One of the best vegan ramen noodles is buckwheat. Not only are they a healthier choice, but they also have a great texture and flavor that’s perfect for creating delicious vegan ramen.
To cook the noodles, bring a pot of salted water to a boil, then add the buckwheat noodles. Let them simmer for about five minutes or until they reach the desired consistency. Once cooked, drain the noodles before adding them to the soup.
Assemble the Vegan Ramen
Now it’s time to assemble the vegan ramen! Begin by adding the noodles to the base of your soup – either the miso, vegetable, or mushroom broth – along with the cooked vegetables.
Cook the soup over medium-low heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until all the ingredients are heated through. Then, garnish the ramen with the seasonings, garnishes, and any other ingredients you’d like.
Enjoy Your Vegan Ramen
Your vegan ramen is now ready to enjoy. Serve up a bowl and top it with a few slices of avocado, some freshly-chopped cilantro, and a sprinkle of freshly-dehydrated and finely-chopped kimchi.
For an added touch of heat, consider adding a teaspoon of sriracha or chili paste. No matter what you choose, vegan ramen is sure to delight your taste buds!
Vegan ramen is a delicious and versatile meal that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Featuring a savory miso- or vegetable-based broth and fresh vegetables and seasonings, this simple dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Remember to choose your base, add vegetables, include seasonings and garnishes, cook the noodles, and then assemble the vegan ramen in order to create a dish that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds.
So take a break from the same ol’ vegan dishes and whip up a bowl of vegan ramen. You won’t be disappointed!
