How Ramen Noodles Reign Supreme All Year Round?

Ramen noodles, those humble bundles of springy joy, are more than just a dorm room staple or a quick lunch fix.

The Plant Based Workshop Team works tirelessly to disrupt an ever so changing category.

Ramen noodles’ versatility transcends seasons, offering comforting warmth in winter and light, refreshing options for summer.

Let The Plant Based Workshop help you explore how ramen noodles can be your culinary companion throughout the year.

Slurping Ramen Through the Seasons

Winter Warmers:

When the chill sets in, we crave a steaming bowl of ramen to chase away the cold. Here are some winter-perfect ways to enjoy ramen:

Classic Comfort: There's a reason the traditional ramen broth is a winter favourite. Rich and flavourful, it's made with umami rich broth, dense and creamy miso paste, or perfectly fermented soy sauce. You can customize by adding your choice of protein like braised tofu, soft-boiled egg, grilled soy meat. Truly the ultimate comfort meal.

Spicy Kick: Want to add a warming heat to your ramen? Nothing like some chilli flakes, kimchi, a dollop of chili paste or crispy chili oil to warm you up from the inside out. 

Noodle Soups for the Soul: Explore different broths like the Spicy Tan Tan Ramen, a simple but umami rich Garlic Shio Ramen, or the Korean Kimchi Jjigae Stew Ramen, or Hot Pot with ramen noodles added for extra comfort. Possibilities are endless.

Spring Awakening:

As the weather warms, ramen can still be a delightful option. Here's how to lighten things up for spring:

Cold Noodle Salads: Swap the hot broth for a refreshing cold noodle salad.

Like a “mazesoba”. Cook your ramen noodles according to package instructions, then rinse and cool them under cold running water, and toss them with a light and flavourful dressing.

Add shredded vegetables, protein like grilled or smoked tofu, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a satisfying and healthy meal. Check out “mazesoba” recipes here link

Light Broths for Warmer Days: Opt for lighter broths like a simple Garlic Shio for your spring ramen. You can even try a cold kimchi broth for a truly refreshing experience. 

Spring Veggie Extravaganza: Load your ramen with seasonal spring vegetables like asparagus, snap peas, and fresh herbs. The vibrant colours and flavours are a celebration of the season.

Summer Slurping:

Summer doesn't have to mean ditching ramen entirely. Here are some cool and refreshing ways to enjoy it:

Spicy and Cold: Embrace the heat with a Korean style cold noodle dish called naengmyeon.

The ramen noodles are served chilled in a spicy and tangy broth, often made with kimchi and gochujang (Korean chili paste).

It's a perfect way to cool down on a hot summer day.

Ramen Salads with a Tropical Twist: For a truly unique summer dish, experiment with a tropical-inspired ramen salad.

Cook the noodles, cool them, and toss them with a flavourful dressing featuring ingredients like mango, pineapple, and a touch of lime juice and mint.

Top it with grilled or smoked tofu for added protein.

Warm or Chilled Pastas style Ramen: Ramen noodles are truly versatile. A simple pesto noodle, butter noodle, or tomato sauce noodle is divine.

Autumn Delights:

As the leaves change color, ramen offers a cozy and comforting transition into fall. Here are some autumn-inspired ideas:

Hearty Pumpkin Broth: Celebrate the fall harvest with a creamy pumpkin broth.

Roast a pumpkin, puree it, and add it to a vegetable stock, or miso for a rich, creamy, seasonal flavour base for your ramen.

Spicy and Smoky Mexican Style Ramen: Give your classic miso broth a smoky twist by adding a touch of chipotle pepper, smoked paprika or Mexican seasoning.

It adds a depth of flavour, culture and spices are perfect for the cooler months.

Noodle Bowls with Fall Flair: Ramen noodles can be the base for a hearty fall bowl.

Roast seasonal vegetables like butternut squash and Brussels sprouts, toss them with cooked ramen noodles, and top it all off with a protein of your choice.

It's a complete and satisfying meal in a bowl.

Versatility of Ramen: A Year-Round Culinary Companion

As mentioned in the abundance of examples above. Ramen noodles are a testament to culinary versatility.

From warming winter broths to light and refreshing summer salads, they offer a delicious canvas for your creativity throughout the year.

The next time you're looking for a comforting meal or a light and refreshing treat, don't underestimate the power of the humble ramen noodle.

It's a culinary companion waiting to be enjoyed, no matter the season.

Beyond the Broth:

While ramen is undeniably delicious in a savory broth, the noodles themselves are the true stars of the show.

Here are some ways to enjoy them outside of a traditional bowl of ramen:

Stir-Fry Marvels: Ramen noodles excel in stir-fries. Their springy texture holds up well amidst vegetables and protein, offering a satisfying bite in every mouthful. Simply cook the noodles according to package instructions, then add them to your stir-fry towards the end for a quick and easy meal.

Crispy Delights: Deep-fried ramen noodles, also known as "yakisoba noodles," are a popular Japanese street food.

Cook the noodles, then deep-fry them until golden brown.

They become delightfully crispy on the outside while remaining chewy on the inside, perfect for snacking or even topping veggies or salads.

Pan-Fried Goodness: For a quick and flavourful meal, try pan-frying ramen noodles with a drizzle of oil and your favorite seasonings.

They cook up quickly and offer a satisfying base for a variety of stir-fried vegetables, meats, or tofu.

Broth Variations:

Even within the realm of ramen broths, there's a world of possibilities:

Classic Savory: The traditional ramen broth is a rich and flavorful combination of meat or seafood stock, miso paste, soy sauce, and other seasonings. It's a comforting and satisfying base for your ramen creations.

Spicy Kick: Craving heat? Add a dollop of chili paste, sriracha, or kimchi to your broth for a spicy ramen experience.

Coconut Curry Twist: For a unique and flavourful broth, try simmering ramen noodles in coconut milk with your favourite curry paste. It creates a creamy and exotic flavour profile.

Customization is Key

The beauty of ramen lies in its infinite customization possibilities. Whether you prefer a light and refreshing salad or a decadent cheesy creation.

There's a ramen noodle dish out there for you. Here are some ways to personalize your ramen experience:

Protein Powerhouse: Add your favourite proteins to your ramen for a power boost.

Veggie Extravaganza: Load your ramen with your favourite vegetables like broccoli, carrots, mushrooms, bok choy, or leafy greens for added nutrients and flavour.

Egg-cellent Addition: A perfectly cooked soft-boiled egg adds a touch of richness and creaminess to your ramen.

Topping Extravaganza: Don't forget the toppings! Explore a world of possibilities, from classic scallions and nori seaweed to kimchi, pickled ginger, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

 

From Simple to Spectacular:

Ramen noodles offer a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. They can be enjoyed in quick and simple meals or transformed into elaborate and impressive, “noods worthy” dishes. The next time you're looking for a versatile and delicious ingredient, reach for a pack of The Plant Based Workshop ramen noodles and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure!