Slow Cooker Beef Ramen Noodles Recipe

Introduction

If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious meal that requires minimal effort, Slow Cooker Beef Ramen Noodles is the perfect choice. This recipe allows you to enjoy tender beef, savory broth, and chewy ramen noodles, all cooked to perfection in your slow cooker. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delightful dish that is both satisfying and full of flavor.

Ingredients

1 lb (450g) beef stew meat or chuck roast, cut into cubes 4 cups beef broth 3 cups water 2 tablespoons soy sauce 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional, for a sweeter flavor) 2 cloves garlic, minced 1-inch piece of ginger, sliced 1 onion, sliced 1 teaspoon sesame oil 2 packs of instant ramen noodles (discard seasoning packets) 2 cups of vegetables (optional, such as spinach, mushrooms, or carrots) Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 6-8 hours Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes (includes prep time) Yield: Serves 4-6

Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef: Place the beef cubes in the bottom of your slow cooker. If using chuck roast, you may sear the meat beforehand for extra flavor. 2. Add the Broth and Seasonings: Pour the beef broth and water over the beef. Add the soy sauce, hoisin sauce (if using), minced garlic, sliced ginger, and sliced onion. Drizzle with sesame oil and stir to combine. 3. Cook Low and Slow: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours, or until the beef is tender and easily shreds with a fork. 4. Add Vegetables (Optional): If you’re adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or carrots, stir them into the slow cooker about 30 minutes before serving, allowing them to cook until tender but still vibrant. 5. Cook the Ramen Noodles: Approximately 5 minutes before serving, add the ramen noodles to the slow cooker, breaking them into pieces if needed. Stir gently to combine with the beef and broth. Let the noodles cook for about 4-5 minutes until they soften. 6. Serve: Ladle the beef, noodles, and broth into bowls. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor. Enjoy your comforting and flavorful Slow Cooker Beef Ramen Noodles!

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Beef

Place the beef cubes in the bottom of your slow cooker. If using chuck roast, you may sear the meat beforehand for extra flavor.

Add the Broth and Seasonings

Pour the beef broth and water over the beef. Add the soy sauce, hoisin sauce (if using), minced garlic, sliced ginger, and sliced onion. Drizzle with sesame oil and stir to combine.

Cook Low and Slow

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours, or until the beef is tender and easily shreds with a fork.

Add Vegetables (Optional)

If you’re adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or carrots, stir them into the slow cooker about 30 minutes before serving, allowing them to cook until tender but still vibrant.

Cook the Ramen Noodles

Approximately 5 minutes before serving, add the ramen noodles to the slow cooker, breaking them into pieces if needed. Stir gently to combine with the beef and broth. Let the noodles cook for about 4-5 minutes until they soften.

Serve

Ladle the beef, noodles, and broth into bowls. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor.

Notes

Beef Selection

Using beef stew meat or chuck roast is recommended as they are ideal for slow cooking due to their tenderness after long cooking times.

Flavor Adjustments

Feel free to adjust the amount of soy sauce and hoisin sauce to suit your taste preferences.

Vegetable Options

You can choose a variety of vegetables, such as bok choy or bell peppers, based on your preferred flavor and texture.

Noodle Cooking Time

Keep an eye on the noodles to ensure they don’t overcook; they should be tender but not mushy.

Cook Techniques

Preparing the Beef

For slow-cooked dishes, it’s essential to start with high-quality beef. Cutting the beef into uniform cubes allows for even cooking. If desired, sear the beef first in a skillet to enhance the flavor.

Layering the Ingredients

When placing ingredients in the slow cooker, add the tougher ingredients (like beef) at the bottom, followed by the liquids and softer vegetables on top. This ensures that the tougher items cook thoroughly.

Using Broth and Seasonings

Combining beef broth with additional seasonings such as soy sauce and hoisin sauce enhances the depth of flavor in your dish, making it more savory.

Cooking Time and Temperature

Low and slow cooking (6 to 8 hours) allows the beef to become tender and absorb flavors. Ensure the slow cooker is set to low for best results.

Adding Vegetables

To maintain the vibrant color and crisp texture of vegetables, add them to the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Cooking Ramen Noodles

Add ramen noodles towards the end of the cooking process to prevent them from becoming mushy. Stir gently to combine and allow them a brief cooking time of around 5 minutes.

FAQ

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes, you can substitute beef with chicken, pork, or tofu for a variation of the recipe.

How do I know when the beef is done?

The beef is done when it is tender and easily shreds with a fork.

Can I use homemade broth?

Absolutely! Homemade broth can enhance the flavor even more than store-bought options.

What kind of vegetables work best?

Vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, carrots, and bok choy are excellent choices for this dish, providing both flavor and nutrition.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prep ingredients the night before and store them in the refrigerator. Just add them to the slow cooker in the morning to cook throughout the day.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Beef Ramen Noodles recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a comforting bowl of ramen packed with hearty beef and fresh vegetables. The slow cooking process enhances the flavors, making it a perfect meal for any day of the week. Customize it with your favorite toppings for a personalized touch.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Spicy Chicken Ramen

Substitute beef with chicken thighs for a spicy twist. Add sriracha or chili paste for heat.

Mushroom and Tofu Ramen

Use mushrooms and firm tofu instead of meat for a vegetarian option. Add soy sauce and mirin for depth of flavor.

Seafood Ramen

Incorporate shrimp or scallops along with the original beef broth for a seafood-infused ramen experience.

Vegetable Ramen

Omit meat entirely and load the ramen with a variety of vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, and bok choy.

Teriyaki Beef Ramen

Add teriyaki sauce to the broth for a sweet and savory flavor combination with the beef.

Thai Coconut Curry Ramen

Mix in coconut milk and red curry paste for a rich and aromatic twist on traditional ramen.

Japanese Miso Ramen

Stir in miso paste once the broth is cooked for an umami boost that perfectly complements the beef.

Szechuan Beef Ramen

Enhance the flavor with Szechuan sauce for a spicy, flavorful kick that pairs well with the beef.