Shiitake Mushroom Kale Ramen

When it comes to comfort food, nothing quite beats a warm bowl of ramen. This Shiitake Mushroom Kale Ramen takes the classic dish and elevates it with the earthy flavors of shiitake mushrooms and the nutritious crunch of kale. Not only is it packed with flavor, but it’s also incredibly easy to whip up, making it a perfect weeknight dinner. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious and hearty ramen that your taste buds will thank you for!

Why I Love This Recipe

There’s something undeniably comforting about a steaming bowl of ramen. This Shiitake Mushroom Kale Ramen is a personal favorite because it combines simple, wholesome ingredients with bold flavors. The shiitake mushrooms add a rich, umami depth, while the kale provides a vibrant pop of color and nutrients. Plus, it’s customizable! You can add your favorite toppings or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.

What You’ll Need

To make this Shiitake Mushroom Kale Ramen, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1 cup loosely packed sliced flat leafed kale
• 1/2 cup sliced shiitake mushrooms
• 3/4 teaspoons ginger powder
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce
• 2-3 cups vegetable stock
• 1 packet ramen noodles
• Optional: sriracha for topping

Equipment & Tools

You will need a few basic kitchen tools to prepare this delicious ramen:

• Large pot – for making the broth and cooking the ramen.
• Wooden spoon – for stirring and sautéing the veggies.
• Knife and cutting board – for slicing your ingredients.
• Measuring spoons – to ensure your seasonings are just right.

Shiitake Mushroom Kale Ramen — Do This Next

Now, let’s get into the cooking process. Follow these simple steps to create your Shiitake Mushroom Kale Ramen:

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the green onions and sauté for about 2 minutes, or until they start to soften. This will add a lovely aromatic base for your ramen.

Step 2: Add the Vegetables

Next, add the shiitake mushrooms and kale to the pot. Stir well and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and the kale has wilted down.

Step 3: Season the Broth

Sprinkle in the ginger powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and chili garlic sauce. Stir everything together, allowing the spices to coat the vegetables and infuse their flavors.

Step 4: Add the Stock

Pour in the vegetable stock and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors can meld beautifully.

Step 5: Cook the Ramen

Add the ramen noodles to the pot and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 3-4 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the noodles are cooked, taste the broth and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Ladle the ramen into bowls, and top with extra green onions and a drizzle of sriracha if you like a bit of heat. Enjoy your comforting bowl of Shiitake Mushroom Kale Ramen!

Substitutions by Diet

If you have specific dietary needs, here are some substitutions you can consider:

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free ramen noodles or rice noodles.
• Vegan: Ensure the vegetable stock is plant-based, and skip any animal-derived toppings.
• Low-Carb: Substitute regular ramen noodles with zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles.
• Spicy: Increase the amount of chili garlic sauce or add sliced red chili peppers for an extra kick.

Method to the Madness

Making this Shiitake Mushroom Kale Ramen is not only straightforward but also a wonderful way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. The method is simple:

Start by sautéing your aromatics in olive oil, then add in the veggies to get them tender. Season the mixture with spices to enhance the flavors before adding the vegetable stock. Finally, cook the ramen noodles directly in the broth for a one-pot meal that’s both hearty and healthy.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

If you’re looking to meal prep or save some for later, this ramen is freezer-friendly, but with a few considerations:

It’s best to freeze the broth and vegetables separately from the noodles. Cooked noodles can become mushy when frozen. To freeze, let the broth cool completely, then store it in airtight containers or freezer bags. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat the broth, cook fresh noodles, and combine!

Your Top Questions

Can I use dried shiitake mushrooms instead?

Yes, you can use dried shiitake mushrooms! Just make sure to rehydrate them in warm water for about 20-30 minutes before adding them to your ramen.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add more heat, increase the amount of chili garlic sauce, or use sriracha as a topping. You can also add fresh sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

Can I add protein to this ramen?

Absolutely! Tofu, tempeh, or even cooked chicken or shrimp can be delicious additions. Simply cook your protein of choice separately and add it in at the end.

What can I serve with this ramen?

This Shiitake Mushroom Kale Ramen pairs well with a side of Creamy Spinach Mushroom Pasta Casserole or a light salad for a complete meal.

Keep Cooking

If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also like these:

• Creamy Garlic Spinach Penne In 20 Minutes

The Last Word

This Shiitake Mushroom Kale Ramen is more than just a meal; it’s a bowl of warmth and comfort that you can enjoy any day of the week. With its simple ingredients and quick cooking time, it’s perfect for busy evenings or when you need a cozy night in. So grab your ingredients, and let’s get cooking! Your tastebuds will thank you with every delicious slurp.