Ramen is the uncrowned king of ‘quick-fix food.’ But what happens when you need a quick snack but you’re OUT OF RAMEN! Nothing to panic about because I’m going to offer you a list of the best substitutes there are for ramen noodles. 

Ramen noodles are delicious noodles served in broth. There are various famous ramen brands, namely Nongshim Ramen, Samyang Ramen, etc. The high consumption rate of this snack has resulted in noodle houses incorporating ramen in their menu and the opening of ramen houses.

In this article, we’ll talk about what all there is to ramen noodles. Ramen noodles are tough to compete with, being an irreplaceable snack. From their dramatic entry into the noodles scene to their popularity, all the soupy details regarding ramen noodles are below.  

What Are Ramen Noodles?

Ramen noodles are of Japanese origin and are basically a noodle-soup dish. Usually, the noodles used are made of wheat. On the other hand, the broth typically consists of spices and meat-based stock. There are many vegan ramen options available as well, offered by brands like Nissin Top Ramen, Koyo, etc.

Using toppings like green onions, dried seaweed, Bok Choy, etc., in your ramen will make it healthier and tastier. There are two options available for ramen noodles; instant ramen noodles and freshly cooked ramen noodles, the latter being healthier. A recipe for making your ramen noodles is provided further in the article.

The Source Of Irresistible Flavor

Your lip-smacking ramen noodles are flavor-packed with all the spices used in them. The maximum flavor is provided to the dish by its broth. The broth, more specifically, has a stock made out of chicken, etc., along with traditional Japanese dipping sauce in it. 

Soy sauce is also used in making the broth. You can use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free approach. You can also top the ramen noodles with chili flakes to make it spicier. Onions and mushrooms are often added for flavor enhancement.

How To Make Ramen Noodles From Scratch

The Hype Around Ramen Noodles

Ramen noodles have been a favorite of almost everyone for a long time now. They’re highly popular, and it can be because they’re convenient, delicious, etc. But recently, all everyone’s talking about in the food sphere is ramen noodles and their versatility. The major reasons why ramen noodles are so hyped are discussed below.

1. All Things Japanese

Japanese Culture is loved by many. So, what better way to include it in your daily life than by eating Japanese food? Ramen noodles are one of the go-to Japanese foods for most people. The recent trend of aesthetics has attracted many people to try ramen.
Its inclusion in Japanese anime has ignited most people’s love of ramen noodles. Mukbang videos often include big bowls of ramen, which also has a large audience. All this activity featuring ramen noodles doesn’t go unnoticed and hence, is one of the most hyped noodles.

2. Go-To Lazy Meal Or Gourmet Meal?

The most obvious reason why ramen noodles are so popular is how easy they’re to make. Instant ramen noodles offer you filling, delicious food in a bowl, taking only about 2-5 minutes to get cooked. Even if you want to go for homemade ramen, that’s easy to make as well.

You can also fancy up your ramen by adding the toppings of your choice or by using a variety of spices. You can modify its taste, make it spicier, etc. You can do so much with ramen noodles at such a nominal cost.

3. Kansui In Ramen

Ever wondered why ramen noodles are so springy or where they get their yellow shade of color from? All of this becomes possible by the addition of kansui to the noodles. Kansui provides alkalinity and is used not only in ramen noodles but also in mooncakes.

Kansui is a solution consisting of sodium bicarbonate and potassium carbonate. It also goes by the name Iye water and is used as an acidic agent while making dough. It is predominantly found in Asia and very rarely found in the stores of other continents.

Finally, the moment you’ve been waiting for all along! The revelation of the ten best substitutes for ramen noodles. Psstttt, I sneaked in a little surprise for you! You’ll be provided with two different types of substitutes below; Vegan and Gluten-free, which are not only better but healthier for you.

Best Gluten-Free Substitutes For Ramen Noodles

Here is a list of gluten-free noodles to swap with everybody’s favorite ramen.

1. Soba Noodles

Soba noodles are noodles made out of the pseudocereal called buckwheat. Soba noodles are used in making noodle-soup dishes, similar to ramen. It absorbs the flavor of the broth it’s served in well. Hence, it is one of the best substitutes for ramen noodles.

2. Glass Noodles

Glass noodles are noodles made out of starch and water. They’re transparent and thin. This is the reason why they are also referred to as cellophane noodles. They work well with soups as they don’t have any flavor of their own and soak all the flavor from the broth.

3. Shirataki Noodles

Shirataki noodles are plant-based noodles made from the plant konjac. These noodles are a perfect fit for both gluten-free and vegan diets. These noodles are long and white in color. They work well with gravies, salads, etc.

4. Rice Noodles

Rice noodles are made by simply mixing rice flour and water. They are low in fiber and healthier than most noodles. Rice noodles are not only gluten-free but vegan as well. They are transparent and gelatinous at times and are mostly used in noodle soups.

Best Vegan Substitutes For Ramen Noodles

No vegan left behind! Here is a list of vegan substitutes for ramen noodles.

1. Spaghetti

Around Italy in 2 minutes! Italian spaghetti is a thinly cut, long-length pasta. It is a healthy noodle option containing vitamins A, vitamin B, minerals, etc. You can add a tablespoon of baking soda to the water you’re cooking the pasta noodles. This way, you’ll get noodles resembling ramen noodles. 

2. Somen Noodles

Somen noodles are very thin and made using wheat flour, similar to ramen noodles. They have a delicate texture and have a very light flavor to them. Like ramen noodles, they don’t require much effort and can be made easily.

3. Udon Noodles

Like ramen, udon noodles are of Japanese origin and are made from wheat flour. These noodles are thick and are comfort food for many. It is usually served in a piping hot broth made from soy sauce, dashi, etc. It does a good job at absorbing flavors from the surrounding ingredients.

Conclusion

While looking for substitutes for ramen noodles, you have to consider it’s compatible with flavored broths. These substitutes can also be used to switch up your usual ramen and make it healthier. Finally, your search for the best substitutes for ramen noodles has ended with the end of this article.