Description
Spicy Shrimp Ramen Bowl
A hearty, balanced bowl of ramen with rich broth and bold flavors.
Ingredients:
1 pack ramen noodles
200g shrimp
2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
1/2 cup enoki mushrooms
Spinach and green onions
Preparation:
Boil ramen noodles and set aside.
Simmer broth with gochujang for a spicy kick.
Cook shrimp and enoki mushrooms in the broth.
Serve with spinach, green onions, and the broth.
Tip: Use spicy sesame oil for an extra flavor boost.
#HeartyRamenBowl
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for the perfect Spicy Shrimp Ramen Bowl.
- Bring a pot of water to a boil for your noodles. Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions, but for 1 minute less than recommended. Drain, rinse with cold water to stop cooking, and set aside.
- In a separate saucepan, bring the 2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Whisk in 1 tablespoon of gochujang until it is fully dissolved into the broth. Let the broth simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Add the 200g of shrimp and the 1/2 cup of enoki mushrooms to the simmering broth. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
- While the shrimp cook, quickly blanch a handful of spinach in the noodle water or in a separate pot for 30 seconds. Drain immediately.
- To assemble, divide the cooked noodles between two bowls. Ladle the hot broth, shrimp, and mushrooms over the noodles. Top with the blanched spinach and sliced green onions.
Serving Suggestions
Elevate your ramen bowl with these simple additions. A soft-boiled egg, halved, adds rich creaminess. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or nori (seaweed) strips provides texture and umami. For extra heat and crunch, add a spoonful of chili crisp or thinly sliced fresh jalapeño. Serve immediately with chopsticks and a large spoon for the broth.
How-to Summary
Quickly cook and cool ramen noodles. Simmer broth with gochujang. Poach shrimp and mushrooms in the spiced broth. Assemble bowls with noodles, toppings, and the flavorful broth. Finish with garnishes and optional spicy sesame oil.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different protein? Absolutely. Thinly sliced chicken, tofu, or even a soft-boiled egg are excellent substitutes for shrimp. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
What can I use instead of gochujang? If you don’t have gochujang, you can use sriracha or a mix of miso paste and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a different but still delicious spicy flavor.
How can I make this vegetarian? Use vegetable broth, omit the shrimp, and add hearty vegetables like sliced shiitake mushrooms, bok choy, or cubed tofu for protein.
Can I prepare the broth ahead of time? Yes, the spiced broth can be made 1-2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before adding your shrimp and mushrooms.
My broth isn’t rich enough. How can I fix it? For a deeper flavor, sauté a tablespoon of tomato paste with the gochujang before adding the broth, or add a small splash of soy sauce or fish sauce to the finished soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Noodles: Cooking noodles in the broth or for too long makes them mushy. Always cook them separately and slightly al dente.
- Not Tasting the Broth: Gochujang potency varies. Always taste and adjust the spice level after it simmers, adding more paste if desired.
- Overcrowding the Pot: Adding too many shrimp at once can lower the broth’s temperature, leading to uneven cooking. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Skipping the Garnish: Toppings like green onions and sesame oil are not just decoration; they add crucial fresh and aromatic flavors that complete the dish.
Conclusion
This Spicy Shrimp Ramen Bowl is a customizable, restaurant-quality meal you can create in under 30 minutes. By mastering the simple steps—perfecting the noodles, building a flavorful broth, and topping it thoughtfully—you unlock a world of hearty, satisfying meals. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different proteins, vegetables, and levels of heat to make it your own. It’s the perfect balance of comfort food and bold, exciting flavor.
