Name: Korean Spicy Ramen Noodles
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 2 packs ramen noodles (instant or fresh, without seasoning packet); 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon grated ginger; 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste); 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; ¼ cup water (or reserved noodle cooking water); 1 green onion, chopped (for garnish); 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish); Optional toppings: soft-boiled egg, sliced cucumber, kimchi, sautéed mushrooms

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for busy nights when you want something fast but packed with authentic Korean flavors. The balance of spicy, sweet, and savory in the sauce creates a delicious coating for noodles. Plus, it’s highly customizable with your favorite toppings to make it your own.

Ingredients

2 packs ramen noodles (instant or fresh, without seasoning packet)
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon grated ginger
1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
¼ cup water (or reserved noodle cooking water)
1 green onion, chopped (for garnish)
1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
Optional toppings: soft-boiled egg, sliced cucumber, kimchi, sautéed mushrooms

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

Directions

Cook ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving ¼ cup cooking water.
Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté garlic and ginger for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in gochujang, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and reserved water. Simmer 1–2 minutes until slightly thickened.
Add noodles to the pan and toss thoroughly to coat with the sauce.
Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Add optional toppings as desired.

Servings and Timing

Yields 2 servings. Prep time: 5 minutes. Cook time: 10 minutes. Total time: 15 minutes.

Variations

Adjust gochujang to control spice level.
Substitute ramen with soba or udon noodles for texture variety.
Add a splash of rice vinegar or lime juice for brightness.
Include proteins like tofu, shrimp, or grilled chicken to make it heartier.
Toss in fresh vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.

Storage/Reheating

Best enjoyed fresh. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of water.

FAQs

Can I use fresh ramen noodles?

Yes, fresh ramen or even other noodles like soba work great.

How spicy is this dish?

Moderately spicy, but you can adjust the amount of gochujang for more or less heat.

Can I make it vegan?

Use vegan-friendly gochujang and soy sauce, and skip animal-based toppings.

What can I use instead of gochujang?

A mix of chili paste and miso paste can substitute in a pinch.

Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely! Bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or carrots work well.

Is it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce and gluten-free noodles to make it gluten-free.

How do I store leftovers?

Keep in an airtight container in the fridge and consume within 2 days.

Can I prepare sauce ahead of time?

Yes, sauce can be made ahead and reheated with noodles.

What toppings do you recommend?

Soft-boiled egg, kimchi, sautéed mushrooms, or fresh cucumber slices.

How do I prevent noodles from sticking?

Rinse cooked noodles briefly under cold water and toss with a little oil before adding to the sauce.

Conclusion

Korean Spicy Ramen Noodles are a quick, delicious, and customizable dish that delivers authentic Korean flavors with minimal effort. Whether you want a simple spicy meal or a loaded bowl with all the toppings, this recipe is a winner for any weeknight dinner.

Korean Spicy Ramen Noodles

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Korean Spicy Ramen Noodles are a fiery and flavorful dish featuring chewy ramen noodles coated in a bold gochujang-based sauce. Quick and satisfying, this meal is perfect for spice lovers craving comfort food with a kick.

Author: Amy
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 2 servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Korean
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Cook ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving ¼ cup cooking water.
Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté garlic and ginger for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in gochujang, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and reserved water. Simmer 1–2 minutes until slightly thickened.
Add noodles to the pan and toss thoroughly to coat with the sauce.
Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Add optional toppings as desired.