6 Instant Ramen Upgrades That Actually Taste Good
Instant ramen is a great meal for those who want to stick to a budget and enjoy various flavors and options. Ramen is a go-to meal for many of us, even when we’re not on a budget. But that doesn’t mean you have to eat the same boring ramen every night. There are great instant ramen upgrades that will make every bowl addictive. Whether you just need some more protein to fill you up, or you want a creamier bowl of ramen, these are the best upgrades that you should try.
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6. Sauté Vegetables
There’s nothing like a hearty bowl of noodles with sautéed vegetables to end the day. For this upgrade, all you need are your preferred vegetables diced up. You can either sauté them in a pot alongside your boiling noodles, or you can make it easier and just boil them along with your noodles. Some of the best additions include mushrooms, onions, and peas. You can even brighten it up more by topping your finished ramen with scallions.
5. Try Some Mayo
Don’t knock it until you try it! Adding mayo, or any fat really, improves the consistency of the ramen without taking away from its richness. And one of the preferred mayo choices is Kewpie mayo. The Japanese mayo is a delicious condiment with umami flavor that enhances your bowl of noodles. And for those who enjoy spicy ramen, a squeeze of this mayo helps dilute the flavor without covering it completely.
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4. Add More Protein
The instant noodle packages come with a broth package when cooking your noodles, offering a bit of protein. But even so, if you want a hearty bowl of noodles, it’s best to add protein. But no, don’t just ground beef and slap it in the bowl with the noodles. One of the best proteins to add to your ramen has to be spam. The cured tin meat is perfect for ramen, making it one of the best instant ramen upgrades.
3. Try Some Sauce
This is a vague suggestion, but you can’t go wrong here. Adding sauce to your ramen is a major upgrade. The flavor profile is incredible if you just find the sauce you enjoy. Simple suggestions include soy sauce or sesame oil. You can even add a squeeze of lime juice. But other sauces that are just as flavorful, while offering a spicy kick, include sriracha, or even Frank’s Redhot sauce.
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2. Sprinkle in Cheese
By far, one of the best instant ramen upgrades on the list is to simply add cheese. This is especially true if you have a spicier ramen, because the blend of cheese and heat is the perfect combination. For this, simply combine your ramen after the noodles are cooked with the seasoning packets. Then top with either shredded cheddar or a slice of Velveeta cheese. Stir to melt and until fully combined, and enjoy. The previously thin sauce will thicken up, sticking to the noodles, and the gooey cheese will just enhance your ramen flavor.
1. Add an Egg
Want one of the best instant ramen upgrades that not only adds protein but also gives you that creamy base as well? Then you need to grab an egg. Ramen broth is usually thin, but adding an egg yolk at the bottom of the bowl and slowly whisking your hot broth thickens it up. Make sure to do it slowly, or else you’ll end up with scrambled eggs. It’s the perfect way to make your ramen rich and creamy, without so many ingredients.
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