This delicious Eastern Market Ramen Noodles recipe is a flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It combines fresh ramen noodles with a savory broth, topped with fresh vegetables and a protein of choice for a satisfying meal.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 4 cups water
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 packs ramen noodles (discard seasoning packet)
• 1/2 cup sliced green onions
• 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1/2 cup baby spinach
• 1/2 cup shredded rotisserie chicken (optional)

Directions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the water, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.
3. Add the ramen noodles to the saucepan and cook according to package instructions, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the green onions, mushrooms, and spinach to the pot and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
5. If desired, top the noodles with shredded rotisserie chicken for added protein.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutrients

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Protein: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 980mg

History and Inspiration Behind Eastern Market Ramen Noodles

Ramen is a dish that originated in China but was brought to Japan and became synonymous with Japanese cuisine. Its popularity has since spread around the world, with different regions and cities adding their own twist to the dish. The Eastern Market Ramen Noodles recipe takes inspiration from the vibrant and diverse flavors found in Detroit’s Eastern Market, a hub for fresh produce, meats, and international ingredients.

The Eastern Market in Detroit is known for its variety of food vendors offering fresh, locally sourced produce and international spices. These influences are reflected in the Eastern Market Ramen Noodles, which incorporate ingredients like soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and fresh vegetables, giving the dish a balance of savory, sweet, and tangy notes. The fusion of these flavors represents the multicultural landscape of the area and brings a unique twist to a traditional Japanese dish.

Why You Should Try Eastern Market Ramen Noodles

There are countless reasons to try Eastern Market Ramen Noodles, from its comforting warmth to its versatility and nutritional benefits. Here are just a few:

1. Comforting and Cozy: Ramen is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. The savory broth and tender noodles create the perfect comfort food for a chilly evening.
2. Quick and Easy: Despite its complex flavors, this recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal option for a busy weeknight dinner or lunch.
3. Customizable: This recipe is incredibly flexible, allowing you to adjust the ingredients to suit your tastes or dietary needs. You can swap the vegetables based on what’s in season, choose a protein that fits your preference, or add extra spices for a more fiery kick.
4. Nutrient-Packed: The dish is full of fresh vegetables and lean protein options, making it a well-rounded meal. With the inclusion of spinach, mushrooms, and green onions, Eastern Market Ramen Noodles provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
5. Budget-Friendly: This recipe makes use of pantry staples, like soy sauce and rice vinegar, and fresh vegetables, making it an affordable option without compromising on flavor or nutrition.

Key Ingredients in Eastern Market Ramen Noodles

While the Eastern Market Ramen Noodles recipe is relatively simple, the ingredients play a significant role in defining the dish’s overall flavor profile. Here are some of the key ingredients that make this dish a standout:

• Ramen Noodles: At the heart of this recipe, ramen noodles provide the perfect chewy texture. These noodles are the perfect vehicle for absorbing the flavors of the broth and are often considered the soul of any ramen dish.
• Soy Sauce and Hoisin Sauce: These two ingredients create the base of the savory broth. Soy sauce imparts a salty umami flavor, while hoisin sauce adds a touch of sweetness, balancing the dish.
• Rice Vinegar: Rice vinegar is added to the broth for a tangy, slightly sour note that helps brighten up the rich flavors of the soy sauce and hoisin sauce.
• Sesame Oil: A small amount of sesame oil gives the broth a rich, nutty flavor that enhances the overall depth of the dish.
• Fresh Vegetables: Green onions, mushrooms, and spinach are commonly used to provide freshness and crunch, balancing the richness of the broth and noodles.
• Rotisserie Chicken: This optional ingredient adds protein to the dish, making it a complete meal. Using rotisserie chicken makes the recipe even easier and faster to prepare, as the chicken is already cooked.

Health Benefits of Eastern Market Ramen Noodles

The Eastern Market Ramen Noodles recipe is not just a tasty meal, but it also offers several health benefits. The ingredients are packed with nutrients that contribute to your overall well-being:

1. High in Protein: If you add rotisserie chicken or tofu, you’ll get a solid amount of protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and maintaining a healthy immune system.
2. Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Vegetables like spinach and green onions are rich in vitamins A and C, which support your immune system and promote healthy skin. Mushrooms are also a good source of B vitamins, which help with energy production.
3. Antioxidant-Rich: The ginger and garlic powder in the recipe provide antioxidant properties, which help reduce inflammation and improve overall health.
4. Low in Calories: With the right portion size, this recipe can be a healthy, low-calorie meal that is filling and satisfying without being overly heavy.
5. Heart-Healthy: Sesame oil is rich in polyunsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy and can help lower cholesterol levels.

Serving Suggestions for Eastern Market Ramen Noodles

While the Eastern Market Ramen Noodles are delicious on their own, you can easily elevate the dish with a few additional sides or toppings:

• Soft-Boiled Egg: Adding a soft-boiled egg with a runny yolk can enhance the richness of the broth and add extra protein.
• Pickled Vegetables: A side of pickled vegetables, such as pickled carrots or cucumbers, can provide a nice balance to the savory noodles and broth.
• Crispy Tofu: For a vegetarian option, crispy tofu can be added for extra texture and protein.
• Kimchi: If you’re a fan of fermented foods, kimchi can add a tangy, spicy kick to the dish, complementing the flavors of the broth.
• Chili Oil: For those who like their ramen spicy, a drizzle of chili oil can give the dish an extra layer of heat.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Eastern Market Ramen Noodles is a delicious and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting a dinner, this recipe will impress your guests with its complex flavors and satisfying textures. The fusion of savory broth, chewy ramen noodles, and fresh vegetables makes it a comforting, nourishing meal that can be customized to your liking.

By using ingredients inspired by the fresh produce and multicultural influences of Detroit’s Eastern Market, this recipe brings a unique twist to the classic ramen. Not only is it quick and easy to prepare, but it’s also packed with nutrients, making it a great option for those looking for a balanced meal.