Name: Easy Ramen Stir Fry
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-487286H53M54S
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 2 packs of instant ramen noodles (discard the seasoning packet); 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor); 1 cup protein (chicken, tofu, shrimp, or beef, cooked and sliced); 1 bell pepper, sliced thin; 1/2 onion, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup shredded carrots; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, minced (optional); 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free); 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional, for sweetness); 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional, for extra flavor); 1 teaspoon chili paste or sriracha (optional, for spice); 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish); Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Ramen Stir Fry is quick, versatile, and packed with flavor. The ramen noodles are tossed in a savory stir fry sauce that coats the noodles and vegetables perfectly. With just a few ingredients and one pan, you can have a filling meal in no time. The dish is also easily customizable—add your favorite protein, vegetables, or even spice it up with a little sriracha. It’s perfect for when you’re craving something flavorful but don’t want to spend much time cooking.

Ingredients

2 packs of instant ramen noodles (discard the seasoning packet)
1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor)
1 cup protein (chicken, tofu, shrimp, or beef, cooked and sliced)
1 bell pepper, sliced thin
1/2 onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup shredded carrots
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, minced (optional)
2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional, for sweetness)
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional, for extra flavor)
1 teaspoon chili paste or sriracha (optional, for spice)
2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the ramen noodles: In a large pot of boiling water, cook the ramen noodles according to the package instructions (usually 2-3 minutes). Drain and set aside.
Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce (if using), rice vinegar, sesame oil, and chili paste or sriracha (if using). Set aside.
Stir fry the vegetables: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, and carrots, and stir-fry for about 4-5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
Add the garlic and ginger: Add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the protein: Stir in the cooked protein (chicken, tofu, shrimp, or beef) and cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Toss in the noodles: Add the cooked ramen noodles to the skillet and pour the sauce over the noodles and vegetables. Toss everything together until the noodles are well coated with the sauce and everything is evenly mixed.
Serve: Transfer the stir fry to serving bowls, and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds (if desired).
Enjoy: Serve your Easy Ramen Stir Fry hot, and enjoy this quick, flavorful meal!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 2-3
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian version: Use tofu or tempeh as your protein for a vegetarian-friendly dish.
Extra veggies: Add in any veggies you like, such as snap peas, mushrooms, broccoli, or baby corn. Just be sure to adjust the stir-fry time depending on the type of vegetable.
Spicy version: Increase the amount of sriracha or chili paste for more heat. You can also add some red pepper flakes to the sauce for an extra spicy kick.
Protein-free: Make it a simple vegetable stir fry by omitting the protein, or add an egg (scrambled in the pan) for extra protein.
Add nuts: For added crunch and flavor, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds, chopped peanuts, or cashews on top of the stir fry before serving.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover stir fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the stir fry in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little splash of water or soy sauce to loosen up the noodles.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of noodles instead of ramen?

Yes, you can use any type of noodles, such as udon, soba, or rice noodles. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the type of noodles you use.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to store the noodles and sauce together in one container for easy reheating.

3. Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables work great in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess water before adding them to the stir fry.

4. How do I make this stir fry spicier?

To make the stir fry spicier, add extra sriracha, chili paste, or red pepper flakes to the sauce. You can also toss in some diced fresh chilies or chili oil for added heat.

5. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, to make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free ramen noodles or rice noodles, and replace the soy sauce with tamari (which is gluten-free).

6. Can I add a boiled egg to this dish?

Absolutely! A soft-boiled or fried egg on top of the stir fry adds extra flavor and richness. Simply prepare the egg to your liking and place it on top before serving.

Conclusion

Easy Ramen Stir Fry is a quick, customizable, and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy days. The noodles are coated in a flavorful sauce, and you can easily adjust the vegetables and protein to suit your preferences. Whether you’re looking for a simple dinner or a hearty meal to share with family, this stir fry is sure to be a hit. It’s a perfect balance of savory, spicy, and sweet flavors, and it’s on the table in just 20 minutes. Enjoy this easy recipe that’s full of flavor and versatility!