Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ramen Noodle Stir-Fry is the ultimate 20-minute dish that’s both quick and nutritious. The ramen noodles absorb the savory sauce, giving every bite a burst of flavor, while the fresh vegetables provide a satisfying crunch. The choice of chicken or tofu makes it adaptable for different dietary preferences. This stir-fry is an easy, one-pan meal that requires minimal effort and is sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 packs of instant ramen noodles (discard seasoning packets)
- ½ cup carrots, julienned
- ½ cup snap peas
- ½ cup bell peppers, julienned
- ½ cup cooked chicken or tofu, cubed
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Directions
- Cook the noodles: Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions, but discard the seasoning packet. Drain and set the noodles aside.
- Prepare the vegetables: While the noodles are cooking, julienne the carrots and bell peppers, and trim the snap peas.
- Stir-fry the vegetables: Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the carrots, snap peas, and bell peppers. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Add the protein: Add the cubed cooked chicken or tofu to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until heated through.
- Add the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil. Pour the sauce over the vegetables and protein, and stir to coat evenly.
- Combine with noodles: Add the cooked ramen noodles to the skillet, tossing everything together to combine and heat through, about 2-3 minutes.
- Serve: Once everything is heated through and well combined, remove from the heat and serve warm. Enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 2-3
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Add more vegetables: Feel free to add more vegetables like mushrooms, broccoli, zucchini, or spinach to increase the nutritional value of the dish.
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha sauce for a spicy version.
- Vegetarian or vegan: Use tofu as the protein and ensure the soy sauce is gluten-free and the hoisin sauce is vegan (some hoisin sauces contain animal products).
- Add an egg: For extra richness, top the stir-fry with a fried or scrambled egg.
Storage/Reheating
This stir-fry is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat the stir-fry in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I use different noodles for this stir-fry?
Yes, you can substitute the ramen noodles with any noodles you prefer, such as udon, soba, or rice noodles, depending on your preference.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, to make this stir-fry gluten-free, use gluten-free ramen noodles, soy sauce (look for tamari), and ensure your hoisin sauce is gluten-free.
How can I make this stir-fry spicier?
Add sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for an extra spicy kick. You can also add some chopped fresh chili peppers while stir-frying the vegetables.
Can I use frozen vegetables in this stir-fry?
Yes, frozen vegetables can be used, though fresh vegetables tend to have a better texture. If using frozen, make sure to thaw and drain them to prevent excess moisture in the stir-fry.
Can I make this ahead of time?
While the stir-fry is best fresh, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. Simply stir-fry everything together when you’re ready to cook.
How can I add more flavor to the sauce?
You can experiment with additional flavorings like ginger, garlic, or a splash of rice vinegar for extra depth in the sauce.
Can I add meat other than chicken?
Yes, you can use beef, shrimp as alternatives to chicken, or keep it vegetarian by using just tofu and vegetables.
How do I make the noodles less soggy?
Make sure to drain the noodles thoroughly after cooking and avoid overcooking them. Stir-frying the noodles with the vegetables helps them absorb the sauce without becoming too soft.
Can I serve this dish with a side?
This stir-fry works well with a side of steamed rice or a fresh cucumber salad for added crunch and flavor.
Conclusion
Ramen Noodle Stir-Fry is a delicious, customizable, and quick meal that’s perfect for busy days. With fresh vegetables, savory sauces, and the choice of chicken or tofu, it’s a well-rounded dish that’s both satisfying and flavorful. This stir-fry is an easy way to elevate your standard ramen noodles and turn them into a meal the whole family will love!
Ramen Noodle Stir-Fry
Ramen Noodle Stir-Fry is a quick, customizable dish that combines ramen noodles with fresh vegetables, savory sauces, and your choice of chicken or tofu. Perfect for busy weeknights, this stir-fry is packed with flavor and nutrition in just 20 minutes.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2-3 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
2 packs of instant ramen noodles (discard seasoning packets)
½ cup carrots, julienned
½ cup snap peas
½ cup bell peppers, julienned
½ cup cooked chicken or tofu, cubed
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions
- Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions, but discard the seasoning packet. Drain and set aside.
- While the noodles are cooking, julienne the carrots and bell peppers, and trim the snap peas.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the carrots, snap peas, and bell peppers. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Add the cubed cooked chicken or tofu to the skillet and cook for 1-2 more minutes until heated through.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil. Pour the sauce over the vegetables and protein, stirring to coat evenly.
- Add the cooked ramen noodles to the skillet, tossing everything together to combine and heat through, about 2-3 minutes.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
Feel free to add more vegetables like mushrooms, broccoli, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or sriracha sauce for a spicier version.
For a vegan version, use tofu and ensure the soy sauce and hoisin sauce are vegan and gluten-free if needed.
Top with a fried or scrambled egg for extra richness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 40mg