Contents
Introduction
Quick Ramen Noodle Stir Fry is a delightful and simple dish that brings together the savory flavors of ground beef, garlic, and ginger, all complemented by a rich sauce. This recipe from Damn Delicious is perfect for a weeknight meal, offering a fast and satisfying way to enjoy ramen noodles beyond their classic preparation. With easily accessible ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can whip up this stir fry in under 30 minutes!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 2 (3.5-ounce) packages instant ramen noodles, flavor packets discarded
– ⅓ cup beef stock
– ¼ cup oyster sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Sriracha, or more, to taste
– 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
– 1 pound lean ground beef
– 1 cup diced sweet onion
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced
– ½ teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
This Quick Ramen Noodle Stir Fry is not only quick to make but also incredibly flavorful, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings. Enjoy the mix of textures and tastes with garnishes of green onions and sesame seeds for an extra touch!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Cook Ramen Noodles
In a large pot of boiling water, cook the instant ramen noodles until tender, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Once tender, rinse the noodles with cold water to stop the cooking process, then drain them well.
Step 2: Prepare Sauce Mixture
In a medium bowl, whisk together the beef stock, oyster sauce, rice wine vinegar, and Sriracha until well combined.
Step 3: Cook Ground Beef and Onion
Heat the toasted sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced sweet onion to the skillet. Cook this mixture until the beef is browned, which should take about 3-5 minutes. As it cooks, crumble the beef with a spatula and drain any excess fat that accumulates.
Step 4: Add Garlic and Ginger
Once the beef is browned, stir in the minced garlic and freshly grated ginger. Cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Step 5: Incorporate Sauce Mixture
Pour the beef stock mixture into the skillet, making sure to scrape any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet to incorporate all the flavors.
Step 6: Combine with Ramen Noodles
Add the cooked ramen noodles to the skillet. Toss well to ensure the noodles are heated through and evenly coated in the sauce, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Serve the stir fry immediately, and if desired, garnish with thinly sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds.
Notes
Note 1: Ramen Noodle Brands
Choose your preferred brand of instant ramen noodles, as the cooking time may slightly vary.
Note 2: Adjusting Spice Level
Feel free to adjust the amount of Sriracha to suit your taste; adding more will increase the heat.
Note 3: Substitutions
If you prefer, you can substitute ground beef with other proteins such as ground turkey, chicken, or tofu for a different flavor.
Note 4: Additional Vegetables
Consider adding vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for extra nutrition and texture. Keep in mind to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Note 5: Storage Suggestions
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat before serving.
Cook techniques
Boiling Noodles
To properly cook ramen noodles, bring a large pot of water to a boil and add the noodles. Cook until tender, generally 3-4 minutes, then rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and drain well.
Whisking Sauces
Combine liquids in a medium bowl and whisk them together until well blended. This ensures that the flavors are evenly distributed in the final dish.
Browning Beef
In a skillet, cook lean ground beef over medium heat until it turns brown. Crumble the beef as it cooks to ensure even browning and drain any excess fat for a healthier meal.
Sautéing Aromatics
After the beef is browned, add minced garlic and freshly grated ginger to the skillet. Sauté them until fragrant for about 1 minute, which enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
Scraping the Skillet
When adding the sauce mixture to the skillet, scrape the bottom with a wooden spoon to incorporate any browned bits. This technique adds depth of flavor to the stir fry.
Coating Noodles
Once the sauce is in the skillet, stir in the cooked ramen noodles and heat them through. Ensure each noodle is evenly coated in the sauce for a flavorful bite.
FAQ
Can I use other types of noodles?
Yes, you can substitute instant ramen noodles with other types of noodles, but cooking times may vary.
How can I adjust the spice level?
You can add more Sriracha to the sauce mixture or top the dish with additional chili sauce before serving to increase the spice level to your liking.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes, you can replace ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or omit it entirely and add more vegetables for a vegetarian option.
What vegetables can I add?
Feel free to incorporate vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for added nutrition and texture.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
Conclusion
This Quick Ramen Noodle Stir Fry offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare. With the combination of savory beef, fresh vegetables, and the perfect sauce, it brings comfort food to a whole new level. Whether enjoyed as a quick weeknight dinner or a tasty lunch, this recipe proves that convenience and deliciousness can go hand in hand.
Vegetable Variations
Consider adding a mix of colorful vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for added crunch and nutrition.
Protein Substitutes
Try swapping the ground beef for ground chicken, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option that still packs a punch.
Spice it Up
For those who enjoy a kick, incorporate additional spices like red pepper flakes or a splash of chili oil to elevate the heat level.
Herb Enhancements
Fresh herbs such as cilantro or basil can add brightness and a burst of flavor when sprinkled on top just before serving.
Unique Sauces
Experiment with different sauces like hoisin or teriyaki for a varied taste, or add a splash of lime juice for a zesty twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish with a side of crispy spring rolls or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the ramen stir fry.
