If you’ve ever craved a bowl of comforting, flavorful ramen that’s simple yet deeply satisfying, this Salt Ramen Recipe is going to become your new favorite go-to. It brings together a clear, savory broth with just the right touch of saltiness balanced by soy sauce and sesame oil. The springy ramen noodles soak up all those beautiful umami notes, while fresh green onions and crisp nori add bursts of texture and flavor. Whether you’re a ramen newbie or a seasoned slurper, this dish is a quick and clean way to enjoy authentic Japanese comfort food at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but perfectly chosen to create a harmonious bowl of salt ramen. Each item plays an important role—from crafting the clear, tasty broth to adding texture and that unmistakable ramen character.
- 4 cups water: Essential as the base for the light broth, providing a clean canvas for the seasoning to shine.
- 2 tsp salt: The star seasoning that creates the classic “shio” ramen flavor, making the broth bright and savory.
- 1 tsp soy sauce: Adds a subtle depth and umami without overpowering the saltiness, balancing the broth perfectly.
- 1 tsp sesame oil: Brings a gentle nuttiness and aroma that lifts the whole dish to the next level.
- 200 g ramen noodles: The chewy, springy heart of the dish, absorbing all the broth goodness beautifully.
- 2 green onions (chopped): Freshness and crunch that cut through the richness and add vibrant color.
- 2 slices nori (dried seaweed): Provides that iconic oceanic flavor and a slight crisp texture as a finishing touch.
How to Make Salt Ramen Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Flavorful Broth
Start by bringing 4 cups of water to a rolling boil in a medium pot. Right as the water heats up, stir in 2 teaspoons of salt, 1 teaspoon of soy sauce, and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil. This simple combination forms the treasure trove of flavor that defines your salt ramen broth. The salt infuses the water, the soy sauce adds subtle umami, and the sesame oil lends a lovely fragrant richness, making the broth anything but ordinary.
Step 2: Cook the Ramen Noodles
Once your broth is simmering, it’s time to cook the ramen noodles. Follow the package instructions closely—typically a few minutes in boiling water until just tender but still springy. Avoid overcooking since ramen noodles are best enjoyed with a slight bite. After cooking, strain the noodles thoroughly to prevent any sogginess once combined with the broth.
Step 3: Assemble Your Salt Ramen
Divide the drained noodles evenly into two bowls, ensuring each bowl gets a generous portion of those beautiful strands. Pour the piping hot broth over the noodles to wake up and hydrate every bit of their texture. The contrast of warm broth and noodles is the heart of this dish, warming you from the inside out.
Step 4: Add Fresh and Flavorful Toppings
Top each bowl with a handful of chopped green onions—those bright pops of freshness are essential for balancing the savoriness. Gently lay a slice or two of nori on top as well to introduce a subtle crunch and a distinctly Japanese flavor element. And just like that, your Salt Ramen Recipe is ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Salt Ramen Recipe
Garnishes
Green onions and nori are traditional garnishes here, adding color, texture, and bursts of flavor. You could also consider a soft-boiled egg or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for extra indulgence. These toppings not only make your ramen more visually inviting but contribute layers of complexity to every spoonful.
Side Dishes
Salt ramen pairs beautifully with light sides. Think simple cucumber salad with a splash of rice vinegar or steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt. These fresh, crunchy sides will complement the warm, umami-packed bowl and offer a refreshing contrast that keeps your taste buds intrigued.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your salt ramen in rustic ceramic bowls to highlight the comforting, homemade vibe. Drizzle a bit more sesame oil on top just before serving to enhance aroma. You can also add a few drops of chili oil for those who like a little spicy kick. Making the bowl your own with small flourishes keeps this Salt Ramen Recipe exciting every time you make it.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store the noodles and broth separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to two days. Keeping them apart prevents the noodles from becoming overly soggy and losing their characteristic chewiness.
Freezing
While the broth can freeze well if poured into freezer-safe containers, avoid freezing cooked ramen noodles as they tend to degrade in texture. Instead, freeze the broth alone and cook fresh noodles when ready to enjoy again.
Reheating
Gently reheat the broth on the stove until steaming hot. Warm the noodles briefly by dipping them in hot water or microwaving for just a few seconds. Then, assemble your ramen as fresh as possible to reclaim that delightful chew and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use chicken or vegetable broth instead of water?
Absolutely! Using broth will give your salt ramen a richer base, but keep the added salt and soy sauce in check to avoid over-seasoning. A simple water base keeps it light and truly highlights the salt flavor.
What type of ramen noodles should I use for this recipe?
Traditional fresh or dried ramen noodles work best here. Look for ones labeled “ramen” specifically, as regular pasta won’t have the same texture that’s integral to this dish.
Is this salt ramen recipe spicy?
No, this Salt Ramen Recipe is characteristically mild and clean in flavor. You can always add chili oil or pepper if you prefer a bit of heat.
Can I add protein to this salt ramen?
Yes! Soft-boiled eggs, sliced chicken, tofu, or seafood make great additions. Just be sure to add them after the broth is made to keep everything balanced.
How long does it take to make from start to finish?
This recipe comes together in about 25 minutes, making it a perfect quick meal that still feels special and satisfying.
Final Thoughts
Making this Salt Ramen Recipe at home is such a rewarding experience; it’s comfort food that doesn’t feel heavy or complicated. The thoughtful balance of flavors, the simple ingredients working together, and the chance to customize toppings gives you a delicious bowl that’s easy to love. So grab your pot, invite some friends, and dive into the warm, soothing world of salt ramen – you won’t regret a single slurp!
Print
Salt Ramen Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
Description
A simple and comforting Salt Ramen recipe that delivers a light yet flavorful broth seasoned with salt, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Ready in just 25 minutes, this dish features tender ramen noodles topped with fresh green onions and crispy nori, making it a perfect quick meal for two.
Ingredients
Broth Ingredients
- 4 cups water
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
Noodles and Toppings
- 200 g ramen noodles
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 2 slices nori (dried seaweed)
Instructions
- Prepare the broth: In a medium pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Stir in 2 teaspoons of salt, 1 teaspoon of soy sauce, and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil, allowing the flavors to meld into a light, savory broth.
- Cook the noodles: Add 200 grams of ramen noodles to the boiling broth or separately boil as per the package instructions. Once cooked, strain the noodles to remove excess water and divide them evenly into two serving bowls.
- Assemble the ramen: Pour the hot seasoned broth over the noodles in each bowl. Garnish with freshly chopped green onions and place slices of nori on top to add a subtle sea flavor and texture contrast.
Notes
- Adjust salt and soy sauce quantities to your taste preference for a more or less salty broth.
- For extra richness, consider adding a soft-boiled egg or cooked proteins like chicken or tofu.
- Use fresh ramen noodles if possible for better texture, or substitute with dried instant noodles if preferred.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or corn for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Japanese
