Kimchi Cheese Ramen is a fun and spicy twist on the classic noodle dish! With chewy ramen, tangy kimchi, and gooey cheese, it’s a comforting bowl that warms the soul.
The best part? It’s super quick to make—perfect for those busy nights when you want something tasty. I love topping mine with extra green onions for a fresh crunch. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ramen noodles: Instant ramen is a quick choice, but feel free to use fresh ramen or udon noodles if you want a chewier texture. Just adjust the cooking time based on the noodles you pick!
Kimchi: Use any type of kimchi you like, but the spicier varieties can add more flavor. If you need a milder flavor, pick a non-spicy version. You can make your own easily with napa cabbage and spices as well.
Cheese: Cheddar and mozzarella are great together, but you can also try Gouda or even cream cheese for a different vibe. Experiment to find what melts best for your taste!
Leafy greens: Spinach is easy and quick to wilt, but you might also like bok choy, kale, or even arugula. Just make sure to add them toward the end to keep them vibrant.
How Do You Perfectly Soft-Boil an Egg?
Soft-boiled eggs add a nice creaminess to your ramen! Here’s how to get that perfect runny yolk:
- Start with eggs straight from the fridge. Bring a small pot of water to a boil.
- Carefully lower the eggs into the water using a spoon. Boil for 6-7 minutes—aim for 6 minutes for runnier yolks.
- Once done, immediately transfer eggs to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Let them cool for about 5 minutes.
- Gently tap and peel the shells. Rinse the egg under cold water for easier peeling if needed!
Now, you’ve got a creamy egg to complement your spicy, cheesy ramen!
How to Make Kimchi Cheese Ramen
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 package instant ramen noodles (about 3 oz)
- 1 cup kimchi, chopped (include some kimchi juice)
- 2 cups water or broth (chicken, vegetable, or beef)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (a mix of cheddar and mozzarella works well)
- 1 soft-boiled egg (see instructions below)
- 1/2 cup spinach or other leafy greens
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and about 10 minutes of cooking, so you’ll have a delicious bowl of ramen ready in just about 20 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Soft-Boiled Egg:
Start by bringing a pot of water to a rolling boil. Gently add 1 egg into the boiling water and let it cook for 6-7 minutes if you like your yolk a bit runny. When the time is up, transfer the egg to an ice bath to cool down quickly, then peel it once it’s cool enough to handle.
2. Boil the Broth:
In a medium-sized pot, bring 2 cups of water or broth to a boil over high heat. This will be the base of your ramen and will flavor everything deliciously!
3. Add the Kimchi:
Once the water or broth is boiling, add in the chopped kimchi along with some of its juice. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes, so that all the flavors mingle beautifully in the pot.
4. Cook the Noodles:
Next, add the ramen noodles to the pot. Cook them according to the package directions; this usually takes around 3 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent them from sticking together!
5. Add the Greens:
For the last minute of cooking, toss in the spinach or any leafy greens you prefer. They’ll wilt quickly and add a nice pop of color and nutrients to your bowl.
6. Stir in Sesame Oil:
Once everything is cooked, turn off the heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of sesame oil for that extra nutty flavor. Yum!
7. Serve the Ramen:
Transfer the ramen and broth into a serving bowl. The hot broth will help melt the cheese you’ll add next!
8. Add Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the hot noodles, letting it melt into the rich broth.
9. Top with Egg:
Now, take your soft-boiled egg, slice it in half, and place it on top of the ramen. The gooey yolk will blend perfectly with the soup!
10. Garnish and Enjoy:
Finally, garnish your ramen with sliced green onions and, if you like a kick, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. Serve immediately and enjoy the cozy, comforting flavors of this Kimchi Cheese Ramen!
This delicious dish combines the tangy heat of kimchi with melty cheese to create a uniquely rich and satisfying bowl of noodles that will leave you wanting more!
Can I Use Different Noodles?
Absolutely! While instant ramen works best for a quick meal, you can also use fresh ramen or even udon noodles. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as these alternatives may require a bit longer.
What if I Don’t Like Spicy Food?
No problem! If you prefer a milder flavor, you can skip the red pepper flakes and use a milder kimchi. You can also add more greens or even some creaminess with extra cheese to balance the flavors.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian or Vegan?
Yes, to make it vegetarian, use vegetable broth and leave out the egg. For a vegan version, replace the cheese with a dairy-free alternative and skip the egg. There are plenty of delicious cheese options available today!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to keep the noodles from drying out.