Slow Cooker Ramen

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Here’s an easy and flavorful recipe for Slow Cooker Ramen—a comforting, savory dish with tender noodles, rich broth, and your favorite toppings. Perfect for a cozy meal!

Ingredients

(Serves 4-6)

For the Broth:

  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tbsp miso paste (optional for extra umami flavor)
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1-inch piece of ginger, sliced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar (optional for brightness)
  • 1/2 tsp ground black pepper

For the Noodles and Protein:

  • 2 packs of ramen noodles (discard the seasoning packets)
  • 2 chicken breasts (or thighs for extra flavor), boneless and skinless, or 1 block of firm tofu (for vegetarian)

Toppings (optional):

  • Soft-boiled eggs (boil for 6-7 minutes and peel)
  • Sliced green onions
  • Sautéed mushrooms
  • Baby spinach or bok choy
  • Corn kernels
  • Nori (seaweed) strips
  • Chili flakes or sesame seeds

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Broth:
    • In your slow cooker, combine the chicken broth, water, soy sauce, miso paste (if using), sesame oil, ginger, garlic, rice vinegar, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
  2. Add the Protein:
    • If using chicken, add the boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs) to the slow cooker whole. If using tofu, cut the tofu into cubes and add it to the slow cooker.
  3. Cook:
    • Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C) or the tofu is heated and absorbs the flavors.
  4. Shred the Chicken (if using):
    • After cooking, remove the chicken from the broth and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
    • If using tofu, you can skip this step.
  5. Add the Ramen Noodles:
    • About 20 minutes before serving, add the ramen noodles to the slow cooker, breaking them apart as needed to fit. Stir gently to make sure the noodles are submerged in the broth.
    • Let the noodles cook until tender (about 8-10 minutes).
  6. Serve:
    • Ladle the ramen broth and noodles into bowls. Add your desired toppings such as soft-boiled eggs, green onions, sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or corn.

Tips:

  • Make it Spicy: Add a spoonful of chili paste or chili oil to the broth for extra heat.
  • Vegan Version: Skip the chicken and egg, and use tofu and vegetable broth for a plant-based meal.
  • Prep Ahead: Prepare the broth and protein the night before and refrigerate, then just add the noodles and cook on the day.

This Slow Cooker Ramen is a hands-off way to enjoy a rich, flavorful bowl of noodles!

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