Instant ramen is cheap and fast, but it doesn't have to be boring. Here are 10 ways to upgrade it with ingredients you probably already have.
Crack an egg into the boiling water during the last 2 minutes. It poaches in the broth and adds protein and richness. Or scramble an egg separately and stir it in.
Frozen vegetables (peas, corn, broccoli) go straight into the boiling water. Fresh vegetables (spinach, mushrooms, green onions) add in the last minute. Leftover roasted vegetables work too.
The seasoning packet is mostly salt. Use half and add your own flavors: soy sauce, sesame oil, sriracha, or miso paste.
Leftover chicken, sliced deli meat, canned tuna, tofu, or a fried egg on top. Any protein turns ramen from a snack into a meal.
A spoonful of peanut butter in the broth creates a creamy, satay-like flavor. Add sriracha and lime juice for a Thai-inspired bowl.
Chicken broth, beef broth, or vegetable broth instead of water makes the soup 10x more flavorful. Even bouillon cubes work.
Mince fresh garlic and ginger, saute in a little oil, then add water/broth and noodles. The aromatics transform the flavor.
Sliced green onions add freshness and crunch. Add them at the end, not during cooking.
A slice of American cheese or a handful of shredded cheddar melts into the broth and creates a creamy, rich soup. Popular in Korea for a reason.
Cook noodles, drain most of the water, add the seasoning packet + a little sesame oil + soy sauce. This turns soup ramen into stir-fry ramen.
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Plain instant ramen is mostly refined carbs and sodium. Adding vegetables, protein, and using less seasoning packet makes it a balanced meal.
Not ideal. High sodium, low nutrients. But upgraded ramen (with vegetables and protein) a few times a week is fine for most people.