Shrimp Ramen Soup Recipe

Shrimp Ramen Soup is a delicious, hearty meal that combines tender shrimp, slurp-worthy noodles, and a rich broth bursting with flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something cozy, this dish comes together quickly and can be easily customized with your favorite vegetables and seasonings.

Ingredients

For the Broth:

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil (or olive oil)
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
• 4 cups chicken, vegetable, or seafood broth
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional, for umami)
• 1 teaspoon sriracha or chili paste (optional, for heat)

For the Soup:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 packs instant ramen noodles (discard seasoning packets)
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (shiitake or button work best)
• 1 cup baby spinach or bok choy, roughly chopped
• 1 medium carrot, julienned or thinly sliced
• 1 soft-boiled egg per bowl (optional, for garnish)

Optional Garnishes:

• Sliced green onions
• Fresh cilantro
• Lime wedges
• Sesame seeds

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

1. Heat sesame oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Build the Broth

1. Pour in the broth and stir in the soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), and sriracha or chili paste.
2. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

1. Add the mushrooms and carrots to the pot and simmer for 5 minutes, or until they are tender.

Step 4: Add the Shrimp and Noodles

1. Stir in the shrimp and ramen noodles.
2. Cook for 3–4 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque and the noodles are tender.

Step 5: Add Greens and Adjust Seasoning

1. Stir in the baby spinach or bok choy and let it wilt for 1–2 minutes.
2. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with additional soy sauce or sriracha as needed.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

1. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with a soft-boiled egg (if using).
2. Garnish with sliced green onions, fresh cilantro, sesame seeds, and lime wedges. Serve immediately.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving:

• Perfect for: Quick dinners, cozy lunches, or a fun ramen night.
• Portion size: This recipe serves 4.

Storage:

• Refrigerate: Store leftover soup (without the noodles) in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Add fresh noodles when reheating to maintain texture.
• Freeze: The broth (without shrimp or noodles) freezes well for up to 2 months.

Reheating:

• Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat. If thickened, add a splash of broth or water.

Helpful Notes

• Shrimp Tip: Use fresh or frozen shrimp, but thaw frozen shrimp completely before cooking.
• Vegetable Swaps: Add snap peas, bean sprouts, or zucchini for more variety.
• Ramen Noodles: Substitute with rice noodles or udon for a different texture.
• Custom Heat: Add more sriracha or chili oil for extra spice, or skip it for a milder soup.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

• Chef Tom’s Tip: “Add a splash of toasted sesame oil at the end for a nutty, aromatic finish.”
• Chef Lisa’s Tip: “For an even richer broth, simmer it with shrimp shells or miso paste for 10 minutes before straining.”
• Chef Maria’s Tip: “Top with crispy garlic chips or fried shallots for a gourmet touch.”

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use cooked shrimp?

Yes! Add cooked shrimp during the last 1–2 minutes of cooking to prevent overcooking.

2. Can I make this soup vegan?

Substitute the shrimp with tofu or tempeh, use vegetable broth, and skip the fish sauce.

3. What’s the best way to cook the soft-boiled egg?

Boil eggs for 6 minutes, then transfer them to an ice bath before peeling.

4. Can I use frozen vegetables?

Absolutely! Add them directly to the soup and adjust cooking time as needed.

5. How can I make the broth richer?

Simmer the broth with shrimp shells, miso paste, or a splash of coconut milk for a deeper flavor.

6. What pairs well with this soup?

Serve with a side of spring rolls, dumplings, or a crisp cucumber salad.

7. Can I add more protein?

Yes! Add boiled chicken, shredded pork, or even a poached egg for extra protein.

8. What can I use instead of ramen noodles?

Udon, soba, or even spaghetti noodles can work as substitutes.

9. Can I prepare this soup in advance?

Yes! Prepare the broth and vegetables ahead of time, but cook the shrimp and noodles fresh for the best texture.

10. How do I make it less salty?

Use low-sodium broth and soy sauce, and balance flavors with lime juice or a touch of honey.