Kimchi Cheese Ramen is a fun twist on your favorite noodle dish! It combines spicy, tangy kimchi with gooey cheese for a flavor explosion that warms you right up.
I can’t resist how creamy and spicy this ramen is! Plus, it’s quick to make, so it’s perfect for those lazy nights when you want a tasty meal without a lot of fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Instant Ramen: Look for spicy flavor if you enjoy heat! However, any instant ramen works. If you’re gluten-free, try rice noodles or gluten-free ramen.
Kimchi: The more fermented, the better! If you don’t have kimchi, try sauerkraut or pickled vegetables for a different tang. Just note, the flavor will change!
Cheese: Cheddar adds great flavor, but mozzarella gives a stretchy texture. You can substitute with any melting cheese like Monterey Jack or even vegan cheese if you prefer dairy-free.
Egg: A sunny-side-up egg gives richness, but you can also use a boiled egg or skip it altogether for a vegan version.
How Can You Perfectly Melt Cheese in Ramen?
Melting cheese in ramen is simple! The key is to lower the heat once the noodles are nearly cooked. Here’s how to do it right:
- Add shredded cheese on top of the almost-cooked noodles.
- Cover the pot with a lid. This traps steam and helps the cheese melt evenly.
- Wait about a minute before stirring; this keeps it creamy and avoids clumping.
Remember, don’t rush it! Allow that cheese to create a creamy sauce as it blends with the ramen. It’s worth the wait!
Kimchi Cheese Ramen
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 package instant ramen noodles (preferably spicy flavor)
- 1 cup kimchi, chopped with some juice
- 2 cups water or broth (chicken or vegetable)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
- 1 large egg
- 1 green onion, sliced
- 1 tsp vegetable oil (for frying egg)
- Optional: 1 tsp gochujang (Korean chili paste) for extra spice
- Optional garnish: sesame seeds, seaweed strips
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10-15 minutes total. You’ll spend around 5 minutes preparing the ingredients and cooking the noodles, with a few extra minutes for frying the egg and garnishing. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Boil the Liquid:
Start by heating 2 cups of water or broth in a pot on medium-high heat. Bring it to a boil—that’s when the magic starts!
2. Add the Kimchi:
Once boiling, toss in the chopped kimchi along with some of its juice. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes. This makes your broth flavorful and tangy.
3. Cook the Noodles:
Now, add the instant ramen noodles to the pot. Cook them according to the package instructions—usually about 3-4 minutes. Stir occasionally so they don’t stick together.
4. Spice it Up!
If you love a kick, now’s the time to mix in the gochujang for some extra heat. Stir well!
5. Melt That Cheese:
When the noodles are nearly done but still have a slight bite, reduce the heat. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the noodles and cover the pot with a lid. Let it sit for about 1 minute so the cheese melts into a creamy goodness.
6. Fry the Egg:
While the cheese is melting, heat the vegetable oil in a small frying pan over medium heat. Crack in your egg and fry it sunny-side up until the whites are set, but the yolk is still deliciously runny.
7. Serve it Up:
Grab a bowl and carefully spoon the cheesy ramen and broth into it. Place the fried egg gently on top—it’s like the cherry on your ramen sundae!
8. Add the Finishing Touches:
Garnish with sliced green onions and sprinkle optional sesame seeds or seaweed strips if you fancy. It makes everything look so pretty!
9. Enjoy!
Sit back, dig in, and savor the rich, spicy, cheesy flavors that come together in this comforting bowl of Kimchi Cheese Ramen!
Feel free to customize your ramen with other toppings too, like tofu or more vegetables! Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use a Different Type of Noodle?
Absolutely! While instant ramen is quick and convenient, you can use other noodles like udon or soba. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
How Can I Store Leftover Kimchi Cheese Ramen?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, but keep in mind that the noodles may soften a bit upon reheating.
What If I Don’t Like Spicy Food?
No problem! Simply omit the gochujang and opt for a milder flavored ramen or add less kimchi. You can also use a less spicy kimchi if available!
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Yes, feel free to add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers! Just toss them into the pot when adding the kimchi, so they cook through alongside the noodles.
