Shrimp Ramen
Nothing warms the soul like a steaming bowl of ramen, and this Shrimp Ramen takes it to the next level. Packed with smoky bacon, earthy shiitake mushrooms, and succulent shrimp, it’s a harmony of bold, savory flavors.
The rich chicken broth is elevated with hints of soy and Worcestershire sauce, while instant ramen ensures quick, satisfying comfort. The shrimp, gently cooked to perfection, adds a delicate sweetness, balanced by the aromatic crunch of fresh chives.
Whether you’re a ramen enthusiast or just craving something extraordinary, this one-pot recipe promises a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Shrimp Ramen Ingredients: A Symphony of Flavors
- Shrimp: The star of the dish, bringing delicate sweetness and tender texture that complements the savory broth.
- Bacon: Smoky and crispy, it adds depth and a rich, umami base to every bite.
- Shiitake Mushrooms: Earthy and meaty, these mushrooms infuse the broth with a luxurious, aromatic flavor.
- Chicken Broth: The heart of the ramen, its comforting warmth ties all the ingredients together.
- Ramen Noodles: Quick and satisfying, they soak up the broth, delivering every delicious flavor.
Recipe Tips
- Perfect Shrimp Preparation: To ensure tender, juicy shrimp, halve them lengthwise for even cooking. Add the shrimp to the broth off the heat and let them cook in the residual warmth for just 1–2 minutes to prevent overcooking.
- Boost the Broth: For an even richer flavor, consider simmering the chicken broth with a piece of kombu (dried kelp) or dried anchovies before adding it to the pan. This simple step adds an extra layer of umami that elevates the dish.
- Customize Your Toppings: While chives are a classic garnish, feel free to get creative. Add a soft-boiled egg, toasted sesame seeds, or a sprinkle of chili oil for a restaurant-worthy bowl. These additions can enhance flavor and presentation.
What to Serve with Shrimp Ramen
- Crispy Vegetable Tempura: The light, crispy texture of tempura vegetables like sweet potato, zucchini, or green beans pairs beautifully with the rich and savory ramen. It’s a perfect contrast to the warm broth.
- Asian-Style Slaw: A crunchy slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy sesame dressing offers a refreshing side dish that balances the hearty flavors of the ramen.
- Steamed Buns or Dumplings: Soft, pillowy steamed buns filled with pork or vegetables, or pan-fried dumplings, make an excellent accompaniment. They complement the broth’s umami richness without overpowering it.
FAQ
1. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
Yes, but add them at the very end, just to warm them up. Overheating pre-cooked shrimp can make them rubbery.
2. Can I replace the ramen noodles with something healthier?
Absolutely! Substitute ramen with soba, whole wheat noodles, or even zucchini noodles for a lighter option.
3. What if I can’t find shiitake mushrooms?
Baby bella or cremini mushrooms are great alternatives, offering a similar earthy flavor and hearty texture.
4. How can I make the dish spicier?
Add a teaspoon of chili paste, a drizzle of chili oil, or thinly sliced fresh chili peppers to the broth for a fiery kick.
Shrimp Ramen
Ingredients
- 12 ounces medium shrimp peeled and halved lengthwise (approximately 20 shrimp)
- 8 ounces bacon finely chopped
- 5 garlic cloves thinly sliced
- 2 cups shiitake mushrooms stemmed and sliced (around 6 ounces)
- 7 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 packages instant ramen noodles 3 ounces each, seasoning packets discarded
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives cut into 1-inch pieces
Instructions
- Begin by placing the bacon in a cold medium saucepan. Heat over medium-high, stirring intermittently, until the bacon turns golden, which should take about 6 minutes. Remove all but 3 tablespoons of the rendered bacon fat from the pan.
- Introduce the sliced garlic to the saucepan, cooking and stirring until it turns golden, approximately 3 minutes. Add the shiitake mushrooms and continue to cook, stirring frequently, until they are browned, about 6 minutes.
- Pour the chicken broth into the saucepan, along with the soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce. Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Incorporate the ramen noodles, boiling until tender, about 2 minutes.
- Take the saucepan off the heat and gently stir in the halved shrimp. Allow the shrimp to cook in the residual heat of the broth for 1 to 2 minutes or until they are fully cooked.
- Serve the ramen hot, garnished with fresh chives for a finishing touch.
