Shrimp Ramen Soup

Shrimp Ramen Soup Recipe

Shrimp ramen soup is a quick and satisfying dish packed with flavor, tender shrimp, and rich, savory broth. This recipe combines the simplicity of instant ramen with fresh ingredients to create an elevated version that rivals restaurant-quality ramen. Perfect for busy weeknights, this soup comes together in under 30 minutes and is highly customizable. Below, you’ll find an easy step-by-step guide to making this delicious shrimp ramen soup.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• Ramen noodles – 2 packs (discard seasoning packet or use plain noodles)
• Shrimp – 1 lb (medium or large, peeled and deveined)
• Chicken or seafood broth – 4 cups
• Soy sauce – 2 tablespoons
• Sesame oil – 1 tablespoon
• Ginger – 1 tablespoon, grated or finely chopped
• Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
• Green onions – 2, sliced (white and green parts separated)
• Baby bok choy – 2 cups, chopped
• Carrots – 1, julienned or thinly sliced
• Mushrooms – 1 cup, thinly sliced (shiitake or button)
• Eggs – 2, soft-boiled
• Salt and black pepper – to taste

Optional Additions

• Red pepper flakes or chili paste – for a spicy kick
• Lime wedges – for serving
• Nori (seaweed) – for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Broth

1. In a large pot, heat the sesame oil over medium heat.
2. Add the grated ginger, minced garlic, and the white parts of the green onions. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in the chicken or seafood broth and soy sauce. Bring the broth to a gentle simmer.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

1. Stir in the carrots and mushrooms, allowing them to simmer for 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the chopped bok choy and simmer for another 2 minutes until just wilted.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

1. Add the shrimp to the simmering broth and cook for 2-3 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and fully cooked. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 4: Cook the Ramen Noodles

1. Add the ramen noodles to the pot and cook according to package instructions (usually 3-4 minutes). Stir gently to prevent the noodles from sticking together.

Step 5: Prepare the Soft-Boiled Eggs

1. In a separate pot, bring water to a boil and gently lower the eggs into the pot. Cook for 6-7 minutes for a soft yolk.
2. Transfer the eggs to an ice bath and peel when cooled. Slice the eggs in half and set aside.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

1. Divide the noodles and broth into bowls.
2. Top each bowl with shrimp, carrots, mushrooms, and bok choy.
3. Place half a soft-boiled egg on top of each bowl.
4. Garnish with the green parts of the sliced green onions and add optional nori or chili paste for extra flavor.
5. Serve with lime wedges for a zesty touch.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving: Serve hot, with optional chili paste or hot sauce on the side for those who like a spicier soup.
• Storage: Store any leftover broth and toppings separately from the noodles to prevent them from becoming mushy. Reheat gently on the stovetop and add fresh noodles when serving.
• Freezing: It’s best not to freeze the noodles as they can become mushy when thawed. Freeze the broth and shrimp separately and add cooked noodles when reheating.

Helpful Notes

• Shrimp Tips: To get the best flavor, sauté the shrimp in a bit of oil before adding them to the broth, then set them aside and add them back at the end.
• Noodle Options: If you prefer, use fresh ramen or rice noodles for a different texture.
• Vegetable Substitutes: Substitute bok choy with spinach or kale, and carrots with bell peppers or snow peas.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

• Chef David Chang: “Adding a touch of miso paste can deepen the umami flavor of your broth.”
• Chef Rachael Ray: “For a richer broth, add a dash of fish sauce or hoisin sauce while simmering.”

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp? Yes, add pre-cooked shrimp in the last minute of cooking to warm them through without overcooking.

2. How do I make this soup spicier? Add chili paste, sriracha, or red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic and ginger.

3. Can I add protein other than shrimp? Yes, cooked chicken, tofu, or even thinly sliced beef are great substitutes.

4. How do I keep the noodles from absorbing too much broth? Cook the noodles separately and add them to individual bowls just before serving.

5. What’s the best way to make the broth richer? Simmering with a piece of kombu (dried seaweed) or adding a small amount of miso paste can enhance the broth’s flavor.

6. How do I avoid overcooking the shrimp? Add them toward the end of the cooking process and watch closely, as they cook quickly.

7. Can I use vegetable broth instead? Yes, vegetable broth is a good option for a lighter, vegetarian base.

8. How can I make this dish gluten-free? Use gluten-free noodles and tamari instead of soy sauce.

9. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers? Reheat the broth and toppings separately on the stove and add fresh or lightly cooked noodles to maintain texture.

10. Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes, prepare the broth and toppings in advance and cook the noodles just before serving.

Enjoy crafting this simple yet flavorful shrimp ramen soup, perfect for when you crave a quick, warming meal with a homemade touch!