Umami-Packed Vegan Ramen with Shiitake Miso Broth

Hearty Vegan Ramen with Shiitake Miso Broth – Your New Favorite Comfort Bowl

This is a fantastically heartwarming vegan ramen recipe, which promises to satiate your cravings with its rich umami depths and wholesome ingredients. Perfect for anyone looking for a satisfying meal that delivers both nutrition and comfort, this dish blends traditional elements with plant-based innovations.

Inspiration Behind the Our Ramen Dish

This vegan ramen is inspired by traditional Japanese cuisine, infused with a modern twist. The inclusion of shiitake mushrooms and a homemade miso broth reflects a deep appreciation for the intricate flavors of Japan, while adapting the classic comfort dish to fit a vegan lifestyle. This recipe is a testament to the versatility of vegan cooking, showing how plant-based ingredients can come together to create a dish that’s both nourishing and incredibly flavorful.

Why You’ll Love This Vegan Ramen

• Deep Umami Flavor: The shiitake miso broth, enriched with kombu and nutritional yeast, offers a deep, savory taste that rivals any traditional ramen.
• Nutrient-Packed Ingredients: Every spoonful delivers vitamins and minerals thanks to the wholesome veggies and protein-rich tofu.
• Quick and Easy: Despite its complex flavors, this ramen is surprisingly simple to make, perfect for a quick dinner.
• Customizable: Easily adaptable with various toppings and spices, this dish welcomes your personal twist.

Quick Grocery List

For the Shiitake Miso Broth:

• Sesame oil
• Fresh ginger
• Garlic cloves
• Yellow onion
• White miso paste
• Red miso paste
• Soy sauce or tamari
• Rice vinegar
• Vegetable broth
• Dried shiitake mushrooms
• Kombu (optional)
• Nutritional yeast (optional)

For the Ramen Noodles & Toppings:

• Ramen noodles
• Firm tofu
• Cornstarch
• Vegetable oil
• Baby spinach
• Bok choy or napa cabbage
• Corn kernels
• Carrot
• Scallions
• Sesame seeds (optional)
• Chili oil or sriracha (optional)

Things to Consider Before Preparing Your Meal

• Prep & Cook Time: Total 60 minutes (Prep: 25 min, Cook: 35 min)
• Equipment Checklist: Large pot, skillet, tofu press, immersion blender (optional)
• Dietary Adjustments: Gluten-free options available by substituting tamari for soy sauce and selecting appropriate noodles.
• Serving Size: Serves 4 generously.

Vegan Ramen Recipe with Miso Shiitake Broth | Easy Umami-Packed Plant-Based Bowl

DifficultyMedium

Servings4

Prep time25 minutes

Cook time35 minutes

Total time60 minutes

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Ingredients

For the Shiitake Miso Broth

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 1 tablespoon white miso paste
• 1 tablespoon red miso paste
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce, (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup dried shiitake mushrooms, (or 1.5 cups fresh, sliced)
• 1 sheet kombu, (optional, for extra umami)
• 1 tablespoons nutritional yeast, (optional for cheesy depth)

For the Ramen Noodles & Toppings

• 10 oz ramen noodles, (check for vegan-friendly brands)
• 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu, pressed and cubed
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch , (for tofu crisping)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 cup baby spinach
• 1 cup shredded bok choy or napa cabbage
• ½ cup corn kernels , (fresh or frozen)
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 2 scallions, sliced thinly
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, (optional)
• Chili oil or sriracha, to taste (optional for heat)

Instructions:

• 1

  Make the Shiitake Miso Broth:

  1. In a large pot, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add onions and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.

  2. Add garlic and ginger, sauté another minute until fragrant.

  3. Stir in both miso pastes and cook for 2 minutes, letting them slightly caramelize.

  4. Pour in soy sauce, rice vinegar, and vegetable broth. Stir to dissolve miso.

  5. Add dried shiitake mushrooms and kombu (if using). Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 25 minutes.

  6. Remove kombu (if used), then blend the broth using an immersion blender (optional for a creamy finish) or strain for a clearer broth.

• 2

  Prepare the Crispy Tofu:

  1. Toss pressed and cubed tofu with cornstarch.

  2. Heat oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pan-fry tofu until golden and crisp on all sides (about 10 minutes). Set aside.

• 3

  Cook the Ramen & Toppings:

  1. Cook ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

  2. Lightly steam spinach and cabbage or toss into hot broth for 1-2 minutes before serving.

  3. Prepare remaining toppings: julienned carrots, corn, scallions.

• 4

  Assemble the Bowls:

  1. Divide noodles into 4 bowls.

  2. Pour miso broth over noodles.

  3. Add crispy tofu, veggies, and toppings.

  4. Drizzle with chili oil or sriracha if desired.

  5. Garnish with scallions and sesame seeds. Serve hot.

Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Non-stick skillet
• Knife + cutting board
• Tofu press or paper towels
• Immersion blender (optional)
• Measuring spoons + cups
• Tongs

Nutrition

Calories	420
Carbohydrates	45g
Cholesterol	0mg
Fat	18g
Fiber	6g
Protein	20g
Saturated Fat	2g
Sodium	980mg
Sugar	4g
Trans Fat	0g
Unsaturated Fat	15g

General Notes

This dish is not only flavorful but also visually stunning, making it perfect for when you need a dish that’s both comforting and impressive. The creamy texture of the miso broth combined with the satisfying chew of perfectly cooked noodles ensures that each bite is as delightful as the last.

Substitutions

• Tofu: Can be substituted with tempeh or seitan for a different texture.
• Soy Sauce: Coconut aminos are a great alternative for a lower sodium option.
• Noodles: For a gluten-free option, use rice noodles instead of traditional ramen noodles.

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of gochujang or a few dashes of hot sauce to give the broth a spicy depth.
• Extra Veggies: Feel free to toss in additional vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or snow peas for more crunch and nutrients.

Let’s Get Cooking: Pro Tips

1. Broth Flavoring: To enhance the broth, sauté the mushrooms and onions until caramelized before adding the liquids for a richer, deeper flavor profile.
2. Noodle Cooking: Be sure to cook the ramen noodles just until al dente; they will continue to soak up the broth when served.
3. Tofu Preparation: For extra crispy tofu, ensure it is well-pressed and dry before tossing with cornstarch and frying.

Art Of Perfect Ramen

Understanding the delicate balance of flavor and texture is crucial in ramen-making. The broth should have a balance of salty, umami, and a hint of sweetness, while the noodles need to retain a slight bite for the best mouthfeel.

Tips and Variations

• Experiment with different types of miso paste to find your preferred flavor intensity.
• Add a drizzle of toasted sesame oil before serving for an aromatic finish.

Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving)

• Calories: 420
• Carbohydrates: 45g – Provides energy for the body.
• Cholesterol: 0mg – Ideal for heart health.
• Fat: 18g – Healthy fats help absorb vitamins.
• Fiber: 6g – Aids in digestion and provides a feeling of fullness.
• Protein: 20g – Essential for muscle repair and growth.
• Saturated Fat: 2g – Kept minimal to maintain heart health.
• Sodium: 980mg – Watch portion size to manage intake.
• Sugar: 4g – Naturally occurring from vegetables, not added.
• Trans Fat: 0g – Supports heart health by avoiding harmful fats.
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g – Good fats that help lower bad cholesterol levels.

Storing and Reheating

Keep noodles and broth separate when storing to maintain the best texture. Reheat the broth on the stove and mix with fresh noodles for best results when serving again.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I prepare the miso broth in advance?
A: Absolutely, preparing it ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Q: How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your noodles are gluten-free.

Q: What are the best toppings for vegan ramen?
A: Green onions, nori strips, and a boiled egg (vegan or traditional) are popular choices.

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For similar dishes, try some of these vegan dishes. Happy cooking!

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