Description
Shrimp and Tofu Ramen Bowl
Ingredients:
For the Broth:
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon miso paste
1 teaspoon sesame oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, grated
For the Ramen Bowl:
2 packs ramen noodles (without seasoning packets)
6-8 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 block firm tofu, cubed
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 cup spinach leaves
1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced
2 green onions, sliced
For Garnish:
Sesame seeds (optional)
Chili oil (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Broth: In a large pot, combine the chicken or vegetable broth, soy sauce, miso paste, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the miso paste dissolves. Reduce heat to low and let the broth simmer gently.
2. Cook the Tofu and Shrimp: Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes and cook until golden on all sides, about 4-5 minutes. Remove and set aside. In the same skillet, cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and fully cooked. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Noodles: Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and divide them between serving bowls.
4. Assemble the Ramen Bowl: Add spinach and mushrooms to the simmering broth and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Pour the hot broth over the noodles in each bowl. Top with cooked shrimp, tofu, and green onions.
5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with sesame seeds and drizzle with chili oil if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy this warm, flavorful bowl of ramen!
#ShrimpTofuRamen #ComfortFood
Step-by-Step Guide
Begin by gathering all ingredients. For the broth, combine 4 cups of broth, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp miso paste, 1 tsp sesame oil, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1 tsp grated ginger in a large pot. Whisk over medium heat until the miso dissolves, then reduce to a low simmer. Next, pat the tofu dry and cube it. Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add tofu, cooking undisturbed for 2-3 minutes per side until golden. Remove and season the shrimp with a pinch of salt. Cook in the same skillet for 2-3 minutes per side until opaque. Cook ramen noodles separately according to package directions, then drain. To assemble, place noodles in bowls, add spinach and sliced mushrooms to the simmering broth for 2 minutes, then ladle the broth and vegetables over the noodles. Top with shrimp, tofu, and green onions.
Serving Suggestions
This ramen is best served immediately in deep, pre-warmed bowls. For a complete meal, serve with a side of steamed edamame or a simple cucumber salad. Customize each bowl with additional toppings like a soft-boiled egg, nori strips, or corn kernels. For a spicier kick, offer Sriracha or extra chili oil on the side.
How-to Summary
Simmer broth ingredients. Pan-fry tofu until golden, then cook shrimp in the same pan. Boil ramen noodles separately. Briefly wilt spinach and mushrooms in the broth. Assemble bowls with noodles, broth, vegetables, and toppings. Garnish and serve hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use soft tofu instead of firm? No, firm or extra-firm tofu is essential as it holds its shape during pan-frying. Soft tofu will crumble.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian? Omit the shrimp, use vegetable broth, and consider adding sautéed shiitake mushrooms for a deeper umami flavor.
What can I substitute for miso paste? If unavailable, you can use an additional tablespoon of soy sauce, but the unique savory depth of miso will be missing.
Can I prepare the broth ahead of time? Yes, the broth can be made 1-2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before assembling the bowls.
My broth tastes flat. How can I fix it? Boost flavor by adding a splash of mirin or rice vinegar, a pinch of sugar, or a small piece of kombu (dried kelp) while simmering.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the shrimp, which makes them rubbery. Remove them from the heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
- Adding the miso paste to boiling broth, which can kill its beneficial enzymes and alter the flavor. Always dissolve it in a simmering liquid.
- Crowding the skillet when frying tofu, which steams it instead of creating a crispy exterior. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Using the included ramen seasoning packets, as they are typically high in sodium and will overpower your homemade broth.
Conclusion
This Shrimp and Tofu Ramen Bowl is a customizable, restaurant-quality meal you can create at home in under 30 minutes. By mastering the simple steps of building a flavorful broth and properly cooking the proteins, you unlock a world of delicious variations. It’s the perfect harmony of savory, satisfying comfort and nourishing ingredients. Enjoy your homemade ramen creation!