What’s inside a packet of instant ramen seasoning, and why does it taste so good?
The easy answer here is umami. To get more specific, though, dehydrated alliums and herbs like onion, garlic, scallions, chives, and cilantro are found in almost every brand of seasoning for instant noodles. Some, like Jin and Shin Ramyum, also contain powdered dried mushrooms or cabbage, which are organic ways to improve savory flavors. However, the main source of umami is stock granules, which are made from dehydrated vegetables, meats, and seafood. Additionally, a lot of them include MSG, unless the package specifically states otherwise.
However, most brands don’t stop at umami; other flavoring components and spices also play a significant part in defining each brand’s distinct taste profile. One of my favorite foods from my childhood is Maggi Masala Noodles, which is loaded with ground spices like red chili, cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Additionally, Mama’s Tom Yum-flavored instant ramen contains traditional Thai ingredients that go well with more than just noodles, like galangal, coconut sugar, dried lemongrass, and makrut lime leaves.
Why You’ll Love This Ramen Seasoning Blend
You can make yourself a healthier bowl of ramen with this spice blend, and you can use it for more than just soup.
Although the high sodium and preservative content of Ramen seasoning packets is acceptable in moderation, But, it’s great to have control over the spice blend if you want to make ramen frequently or for children.
Additionally, you might want to use dried ramen noodles instead of fried ones, in which case you’ll need to season them as well, which is why this blend works so well!
And ramen spices are versatile! Try them with roasted chickpeas or a mixture of spiced nuts, rub them on chicken, or sprinkle them over roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts!
- 3 chicken bouillon cubes
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder or granulated garlic
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
Add ¼ to ½ teaspoon of cayenne to this mixture if you prefer your ramen to be spicy.
How to Make Homemade Ramen
Making straightforward homemade ramen is the simplest way to use this ramen seasoning mix. Heres how to make 1 serving of it.
- In a small pot, bring two cups of water to a boil.
- Add your noodles (you can use dried or fried ones from an instant ramen pack). Boil according to package directions, usually 3 minutes.
- Take the noodles off of the burner and stir in 1 tablespoon of your homemade blend of ramen seasoning. Stir to combine.
- Transfer the ramen into a bowl, then garnish with a teaspoon of sesame seeds, ⅓ cup chopped scallions, and a drizzle of chili oil.
