Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- Ramen noodles (or choice of noodles) – 2 packs
- Gochujang (Korean chili paste) – 2 tablespoons (adjust to taste)
- Peanut butter – 1 tablespoon (for creaminess)
- Soy sauce – 1 tablespoon
- Butter – 1 tablespoon (use plant-based for vegan version)
- Garlic – 2 cloves, chopped
- Maple syrup or honey – 1 tablespoon
- Rice vinegar or lime juice – 1 teaspoon
- Scallions – 2, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds – 1 teaspoon (optional for garnish)
Optional Add-Ins
- Vegetables: Bell peppers, spinach, or carrots (sliced)
- Protein: Pan-fried shrimp, tofu, or chicken
Instructions
- Prepare the Noodles:
Boil noodles as per package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving a small amount of cooking water to adjust sauce consistency if needed. - Make the Gochujang Sauce:
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-low heat until it begins to bubble.
- Add chopped garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in gochujang, peanut butter, and soy sauce, blending until smooth and creamy.
- Add maple syrup or honey for sweetness, and finish with rice vinegar or lime juice for a hint of acidity.
- Combine Noodles with Sauce:
- Toss cooked noodles in the skillet with the sauce, stirring to coat each noodle.
- If the sauce is too thick, add reserved noodle water a tablespoon at a time until desired consistency.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Divide the noodles into bowls.
- Garnish with scallions and sesame seeds, if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the spicy, savory, and creamy flavors.
Notes
- Adjust the Spice: Start with 1 tablespoon of gochujang if sensitive to spice, and add more to taste.
- Vegan Option: Substitute butter with plant-based butter, and ensure noodles are vegan-friendly.
- Experiment with Noodles: Try soba, udon, or spaghetti for a different texture.
- Boost with Veggies and Proteins: Add bell peppers, spinach, or pan-fried tofu, shrimp, or chicken for a more filling dish.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: Korean Fusion
- Diet: Vegan
Nutrition
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 980mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Protein: 12g