6 Minute Ramen Noodles

Name: 6 Minute Ramen Noodles
Prep time: 2 min
Cook time: 4 min
Ingredients: 80 g Tofu (extra firm); 100 g quick cook noodles (dried); 1 spring onion; 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil; 1 tbsp white sesame; 1½ tbsp soy; 50 g frozen broad beans; 50 g frozen spinach; ½ tsp onion powder; ½ tsp garlic powder; Ground pepper; 500 ml hot water; ½ tbsp rice vinegar; ½ tbsp mirin; ½ tsp chili flakes; ½ tsp kombu dashi powder; A few drops of Layu chili oil; Sprinkling of crispy onions

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I've always been a fan of instant noodles, particularly the 'UFO' pot noodle variety that you can find in 7/11s across Japan. It was quite a disappointment that the UK counterparts didn't quite hit the mark for a long time, but thankfully, the tables have turned. Now, we have access to incredible tasting instant noodles that whip up in just a few minutes - sheer convenience paired with undeniable deliciousness. However, the downside is that they are usually loaded with numerous flavor enhancers, preservatives, and a myriad of E numbers. Not to mention, they are often devoid of essential micronutrients, proteins, and healthy fats. This is where my 6 Minute Ramen Noodles with tofu, broad bean, and spinach comes into play.

A birds-eye view of a large ceramic bowl full of 6 minute Japanese noodles, with tofu and vegetables.

Topped with crispy onions, spring onions, and a drizzle of chili oil, these quick and easy noodles are not just satisfying and rich, but also chock-full of hearty goodness. It's my solution to enjoying a quick, convenient meal without compromising my health or taste buds.

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Ingredients
Instructions
Substitutions
Variations
Storage
FAQ
Related
6 Minute Ramen Noodles
Food safety

Ingredients

Serves 1 | Prep time 2 minutes | Cooking time 4 minutes

80g Tofu (extra firm)
100g quick cook noodles
1 spring onion
1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
1 tablespoon white sesame
1½ tablespoon soy
50g frozen broad beans
50g frozen spinach
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Ground pepper
500ml hot water
½ tablespoon rice vinegar
½ tablespoon mirin
½ teaspoon chili flakes
½ teaspoon kombu dashi powder
A few drops of Layu chili oil
Sprinkling of crispy onions

Instructions

A plate full of frozen green broad beans and small chunks of frozen spinach.

Step 1: Cook frozen broad beans and spinach in the microwave on full power for 60 seconds.

A pile of chopped tofu cubes on a white chopping board.

Step 2: Chop a block of tofu in to 1cm cubes and pop your kettle on.

Step 3: Thinly slice your spring onions into thin discs.

A frying pan containing some yellowy oil and a few white seeds.

Step 4: Get a small pan on a high heat. Add sesame oil and sesame seeds. Sizzle.

A frying pan containing cubes of tofu in a small amount of brown liquid and some white seeds.

Step 5: Add the tofu, a splash of soy (est. ½ tbsp) and fry for 1 min.

A frying pan containing uncooked chopped tofu cubes, green broad beans, small frozen blocks of dark green spinach, a small amount of dark brown liquid and a few sprinkles of small white seeds.

Step 6: Drop in the beans, spinach, onion powder, pepper and fry for 30 seconds.

A block of dried instant noodles floating in a pan full of boiling water with vegetables, tofu and seasonings.

Step 7: Make a little space for your noodles in your pan and add the boiled water.

A frying spatula stirring some dark brown liquid and ramen noodles together with tofu and vegetables in a frying pan.

Step 8: Now add the rest of your soy sauce, mirin, kombu dashi and rice vinegar. Stir.

An action shot of decanting ramen noodles with tofu and vegetables, from a frying pan, into a large ceramic ramen bowl.

Step 9: When your noodles are al-dente, decant into your favorite ramen bowl.

A ramen bowl containing noodles in broth, combined with tofu, vegetables and toppings with some chopsticks resting on the side of the bowl.

Step 10: Sprinkle over the spring onions, chili flakes, crispy onions and chili oil. Your 6 minute ramen noodles are now ready to serve (and slurp!).

These ramen noodles are so quick and easy, I find myself cooking them for lunch quite a lot when I’m working from home. They're also great for when I need something speedy to get me going again after a workout.

Hint: If you want a tasty beverage to complement your noodles, try a hot cup of green tea - perfect for digestion and flavor - or pair them with a cold Japanese beer to balance the richness of the ramen broth.

Substitutions

The whole family can enjoy these noodles, although not everybody has a taste for spicy chili, so try any of these alternatives:

Chili oil - you can remove this all together or top with a few drops of coconut oil instead
Chili flakes - these are also optional as a topping. If you'd like to replace it try chopping up some herbs for some fusion flavors - chives, basil or coriander (cilantro) work well.

For those following a gluten-free diet, swap standard soy sauce for tamari and ensure your noodles are a gluten-free variety, such as rice or buckwheat noodles.

If you're on a low-sodium diet, consider reducing the amount of soy sauce or replacing it with a low-sodium alternative.

For the keto dieters, swap out the noodles for a low-carb option like shirataki noodles, and replace the beans with a keto-friendly vegetable such as broccoli or bell peppers.

Variations

Miso and mushroom flavours: For an earthy, umami flavor, you can use miso paste and a variety of mushrooms like shiitake, oyster. Add in some baby bok choy for a crunchy texture.

Vegetable Overload Ramen: For a more nutrient dense version, experiment with different veggies. Carrots, cabbage, peas and green beans work so well. Use seasonal vegetables for the best flavor and nutritional value.

Storage

For the best experience, enjoy your ramen fresh and hot right after it's done. Instant - or near-instant '6 minute ramen' - is all about that immediate comfort! Savor the delicious blend of flavors and the warm broth. You won't have much left to store anyway, it's that irresistible imo.

FAQ

What are the main ingredients of ramen?

There are many variations of the Japanese noodle soup dish known as 'Ramen', each offering unique types and flavors. However, the essential components are noodles, broth, sauce, oil, and toppings.

What can I add to ramen noodles?

Make vegan ramen delicious by adding miso paste for umami, veggies for crunch, tofu for protein (try different marinades), and toasted sesame seeds for a finishing touch! 🍜

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