Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles (Vegan Recipe)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles recipe is simple to prepare yet packed with rich, satisfying flavors. The sauce is customizable to suit your taste buds, with options to adjust sweetness, saltiness, and heat. Whether you choose tofu, mushrooms, or a medley of vegetables, this dish gives you flexibility without compromising on flavor. Plus, the noodles absorb all the savory goodness of the sauce, making each bite irresistible. With minimal prep time and the option to make it spicier or sweeter depending on your mood, it’s a vegan-friendly meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

2 servings dry instant ramen noodle cakes or your choice of noodles (approximately 140 g total)

For Sautéing:

10 oz extra firm tofu, vegetables, or mushrooms (sliced)

For the Sauce:

1 cup water or vegetable broth

5-7 tbsp soy sauce (adjust to taste)

1.5 tsp dark soy sauce (optional for color)

2-3 tbsp cornstarch (for thickening; see notes)

1-3 tbsp sugar, maple syrup, or another sweetener (adjust for desired sweetness)

2 tbsp rice vinegar, white vinegar, or lemon juice (adjust for sourness)

1/4 tsp ground pepper

1/2 tbsp chili garlic sauce or any hot sauce (optional for heat)

1 tbsp sesame oil

2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)

For Garnishing:

Chopped scallions

Sesame seeds

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, mix all sauce ingredients until smooth and well combined. Adjust the flavors to suit your taste—more sweetness, saltiness, or heat as desired. Set the sauce aside. If using hot sauce, the sauce may take on a reddish tint.

Cook the Noodles: Bring a small pot of water to a boil. Add the ramen noodles (or noodles of your choice) and cook them until they’re half-done, still chewy, and with a bit of a bite—about 2-3 minutes less than the package suggests. Drain the water and set the noodles aside. You can also rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process and remove excess starch.

Sauté the Tofu or Vegetables: While the noodles are cooking, heat a pan over medium-high heat and add a bit of oil. Sauté your choice of tofu, mushrooms, or vegetables until they’re cooked to your liking.

Thicken the Sauce: Stir the sauce again to ensure the cornstarch is fully mixed. Pour the sauce into the pan with the vegetables or tofu, letting it simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens. Stir continuously to prevent sticking.

Combine the Noodles: Add the partially cooked noodles to the pan, tossing them in the sauce until they’re well-coated. Cook the noodles in the sauce for another 3 minutes to allow them to absorb the flavors and thicken the sauce.

Taste and Adjust: Taste the noodles and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add a bit more soy sauce, sugar, or pepper to suit your preference.

Garnish and Serve: Serve the noodles hot, garnished with chopped scallions and sesame seeds. Enjoy your delicious vegan ramen!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 2

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Add Protein: Swap the tofu for tempeh or add edamame for extra protein.

Make it Spicy: Increase the amount of chili garlic sauce or use a spicier hot sauce for more heat.

Use Different Vegetables: You can add spinach, bell peppers, carrots, or bok choy for a colorful and nutritious twist.

Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free noodles if you’re avoiding gluten.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The noodles will absorb more of the sauce as they sit, making the dish even more flavorful!

Reheating: Reheat the noodles in a pan over low heat, adding a bit of water or broth to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave them for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

How can I make this ramen gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute regular ramen noodles with gluten-free noodles. Make sure your soy sauce is gluten-free as well, or use tamari.

Can I use different types of noodles?

Yes! You can use any noodles you prefer, such as soba noodles, udon, or even rice noodles. Adjust cooking times based on the noodle type you choose.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

To increase the spice level, add more chili garlic sauce or use a hotter variety of hot sauce. You can also add chili flakes or fresh chopped chilies for an extra kick.

What if I don’t have dark soy sauce?

Dark soy sauce is optional and mainly used for color. You can omit it or substitute it with regular soy sauce if you prefer.

Can I make this dish with a different sweetener?

Yes, you can swap the sugar or maple syrup with any sweetener of your choice, such as agave nectar, coconut sugar, or stevia.

Can I make this ramen without tofu?

Definitely! You can replace tofu with mushrooms, vegetables, or even tempeh for a different texture and flavor.

How do I make this ramen creamier?

For a creamier version, try adding a splash of coconut milk or plant-based cream to the sauce before simmering.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes! Frozen vegetables work well in this recipe. Just be sure to sauté them until heated through before adding the sauce.

How can I make this dish low-carb?

To make a low-carb version, replace the noodles with zucchini noodles (zoodles) or shirataki noodles.

How long will this ramen last in the fridge?

This ramen will stay fresh for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container in the fridge.

Conclusion

This Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles recipe offers the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors, making it a must-try for any vegan or noodle lover. It’s quick to prepare, adaptable to your taste, and deliciously satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, this dish is guaranteed to please.

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