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Garlic Sesame Ramen

May 14
Garlic Sesame Ramen
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A fragrant, nutty garlic and sesame broth pairs beautifully with crisp vegetables and tender noodles.

Garlic, oil, and seed—The kitchen hums with warm scent—Slurp and start again

Ingredients

  • 4 cups vegetable broth (preferably low-sodium)
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
  • 4 portions dried ramen noodles (seasoning packets discarded)
  • 1 cup shredded cabbage (green or napa)
  • 1/2 cup mushrooms, thinly sliced (shiitake, cremini, or button)
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons sesame seeds (toasted)
  • Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste

Preparation

  1. Heat sesame oil in a pot over medium-low. Add sliced garlic and fry gently until golden and crisp. Remove garlic with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel.
  2. Add vegetable broth, soy sauce, and rice vinegar to the pot. Bring to a gentle simmer and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Cook ramen noodles in a separate pot according to package directions. For the last 30 seconds, add cabbage and mushrooms to blanch, then drain well.
  4. Divide noodles and vegetables among bowls. Ladle hot broth over them.
  5. Top with fried garlic, green onions, sesame seeds, and desired toppings: crispy shallots, nori strips, soft-boiled egg halves, bean sprouts, chili oil, and extra green onions.

Perfect Pairings

Drink
Sake (Junmai, warm or chilled)
A versatile Junmai sake, served warm or chilled, complements the savory and nutty notes of garlic sesame ramen. Its clean, slightly earthy profile enhances the umami of the broth and vegetables without overpowering the delicate flavors.
Music
Japanese city pop

Topping Ideas

  • Shredded Carrot
    Add for crisp sweetness and color.
  • Pickled Ginger
    Scatter for tangy, aromatic zip.
  • Microgreens
    Use for fresh, peppery bite.
  • Shichimi Togarashi
    Sprinkle for complex, citrusy heat.
  • Daikon Sprouts
    Add for a delicate, radish flavor and visual appeal.