Easy Beef Ramen Soup Recipe You Can Make in 30 Minutes
Ramen soup has become a beloved comfort food across the United States, offering a warm and satisfying meal that can be customized to suit any taste. While many people opt for store-bought ramen packets, making your own beef ramen soup from scratch is not only more flavorful but also allows you to control the ingredients. With a few simple steps and quality ingredients, you can create a delicious beef ramen soup in just 30 minutes. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, quick lunches, or even as a cozy dinner after a long day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To start, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pound of ground beef (or thinly sliced sirloin for a leaner option)
- 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of chicken or beef broth
- 1 cup of water
- 1 package of ramen noodles (you can use the seasoning packet or make your own broth)
- 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
- 1/2 cup of shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup of chopped bok choy or spinach
- 1 teaspoon of ginger, grated
- Optional: green onions, sesame seeds, and chili flakes for garnish
Step-by-Step Preparation
Begin by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 2 minutes until it becomes translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
Now, add the ground beef to the pot. Cook the beef until it’s browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once the beef is done, stir in the soy sauce and sesame oil to enhance the flavor.
Pour in the chicken or beef broth and water, bringing the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. At this point, add the ramen noodles and cook according to the package instructions. If using the seasoning packet, you can add it at this stage for extra flavor.
While the soup simmers, prepare the vegetables. Add the shredded carrots and chopped bok choy or spinach to the pot, stirring them into the soup. Let everything cook together for an additional 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Tips for a Perfect Bowl
To elevate your beef ramen soup, consider adding a few optional ingredients. A sprinkle of green onions, sesame seeds, or a dash of chili flakes can add a nice touch of color and flavor. If you prefer a richer broth, you can add a splash of oyster sauce or a small amount of miso paste.
Another tip is to use fresh vegetables instead of frozen ones. Fresh bok choy or spinach will provide a crisper texture and better flavor. If you don’t have access to these, you can substitute with other leafy greens like kale or cabbage.
For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, adding some sliced scallions or crispy fried shallots can give the soup a delightful contrast. Additionally, a drizzle of chili oil or a squeeze of lime juice can add a zesty kick that complements the savory flavors.
Customizing Your Soup
One of the best things about ramen soup is its versatility. You can easily customize this recipe to fit your preferences or what you have on hand. For a vegetarian version, simply skip the beef and use tofu or mushrooms as a protein source. If you’re looking for a heartier meal, you can add boiled eggs, soft-boiled eggs, or even some cooked shrimp.
If you want to make the soup more substantial, you can add a handful of rice noodles or a scoop of cooked white rice. This makes the dish more filling and ideal for a complete meal. Another option is to serve the soup with a side of steamed dumplings or spring rolls for a more varied dining experience.
Serving Suggestions
Once your soup is ready, ladle it into bowls and garnish with your preferred toppings. Serve it while it’s hot, as the warmth enhances the flavors. This recipe is great for sharing with family or enjoying as a solo meal. It pairs well with a simple side salad or a slice of crusty bread for a balanced meal.
If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a little bit of broth or water to prevent the noodles from becoming too dry.
