If you’re a ramen noodle fan, you’ve likely faced this dilemma – your stomach is grumbling and a steaming bowl of noodles sounds perfect. But you don’t want to wait for water to boil or deal with dirty pots. So you wonder – can you microwave ramen noodles instead?
The short answer is yes, you absolutely can zap ramen noodles in the microwave for a fast, easy meal! But to get the best results, there are some simple tricks to follow.
In this ultimate guide, we’ll explore the handy hack of how to cook ramen in the microwave. You’ll get the full scoop on:
- Why the microwave makes sense for ramen
- Step-by-step microwave ramen instructions
- Ideas for taking basic ramen up a notch
- Common mistakes to avoid
- How it compares nutrition-wise to stovetop ramen
So read on for the complete low-down on how to make ramen in the microwave and satisfy your noodle craving ASAP!
The basics of microwaving ramen are simple – break up the noodles, add water, microwave until tender. But there are some nuances that can take your noodles from limp and soggy to perfectly plump and delicious.
Follow our tips for ramen microwave instructions and you’ll become an expert on making quick, tasty ramen without any pots to wash. Let’s dive in!
Why Microwaving Ramen Makes Sense
For those days when you don’t have time to watch a pot boil, the microwave can be a ramen noodle lifesaver. Microwaving ramen offers several advantages:
- It’s faster – You can have hot ramen in just a few minutes instead of waiting up to 10 minutes for water to boil.
- More convenient – No pots to wash! Microwave ramen in the same bowl you’ll eat from.
- Less chance of burning – The microwave evenly distributes heat so there’s no need to stir constantly.
- Customizable flavors – It’s easier to toss in spices, veggies and proteins.
However, the microwave can make ramen mushy if you don’t follow a few simple rules. But follow our guidance for foolproof ramen microwave instructions every time.
Step-By-Step Microwave Ramen Directions
With these simple steps, you’ll learn how to microwave ramen noodles perfectly:
1. Prep the Noodles
- Remove ramen noodle block from packaging.
- Gently break apart noodles so they can cook evenly.
2. Add Water
- Place noodles in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Pour in just enough water to cover noodles, about 1 1⁄2 cups.
- Add seasoning packet if desired.
3. Microwave
- Microwave uncovered on high 2-3 minutes.
- Carefully remove bowl; contents will be hot!
- Stir noodles, microwave 2-3 more minutes if needed.
4. Rest and Serve
- Let noodles rest 1 minute before eating.
- Add any desired toppings.
- Enjoy your quick and easy microwaved ramen!
That’s all there is to it. In less than 10 minutes, you can have a hot, tasty meal using this ramen microwave instructions guide.
Elevate Basic Microwaved Ramen
Now that you know the basics, let’s look at ways to take basic microwaved ramen to the next level.
Flavor Boosts
After cooking, stir in any of the following:
- Soy sauce or tamari
- Sesame oil
- Sriracha or chili garlic sauce
- Lime juice
- Peanut butter
- Frozen vegetables
Meat and Vegetable Mix-Ins
- Shredded chicken
- Thinly sliced steak
- Sauteed shrimp
- Defrosted frozen vegetables
- Sliced mushrooms
- Baby spinach
- Bean sprouts
- Green onions
Topping Ideas
- Boiled egg
- Toasted sesame seeds
- Crushed peanuts
- Fresh cilantro
- Thinly sliced radish
- Lime wedge
With just a few extra ingredients, boring ramen transforms into a restaurant-worthy meal. Get creative with flavors, textures and colors to make each bowl unique.
Mistakes to Avoid When Microwaving Ramen
While microwaving ramen is easy, there are a few common mistakes to watch out for:
✘ Using too little water. This results in dry, crunchy noodles.
✘ Adding too much water. This gives you a bland, soggy soup.
✘ Not stirring during cooking. This causes noodles to stick together.
✘ Adding flavor packet before cooking. It can clump up and scorch.
✘ Using plastic containers or low-quality bowls. This can melt containers and crack bowls.
✘ Not allowing to rest before eating. Noodles need to absorb broth and soften.
✘ Putting uncooked noodles in very hot liquid. This can cause splattering and burns.
✘ Grabbing hot bowl with bare hands! Always use a towel or oven mitt.
Follow our tips and you’ll get perfect ramen every time you’re craving fast microwave noodles.
How Microwaved Ramen Compares Nutritionally
One concern with ramen in general is its nutritional value. So how does microwaved ramen compare health-wise to stovetop?
The cooking method doesn’t change the noodles’ calories, carbs, or sodium much. But vitamins may be more retained in the microwave.
However, ramen lacks fiber, protein and many vitamins and minerals. To make your meal more balanced:
- Use reduced-sodium broth
- Add plenty of veggies
- Include a protein like egg or tofu
- Switch to whole grain noodles
While instant ramen won’t ever be considered a “health food”, these simple tweaks help make it more nutritious.
Satisfy Your Ramen Craving in Minutes
With this complete guide, you now have all the tools to make delicious ramen in your microwave confidently.
Follow the step-by-step ramen microwave instructions for perfect noodles every time. Then get creative with flavors, toppings and mix-ins to take your ramen up a notch.
So next time ramen cravings hit, you don’t need to wait for water to boil. Just follow our tips for how to cook ramen in the microwave and how to make ramen in the microwave. In mere minutes you can be slurping savory, satisfying noodles.
