Korean Ramen: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

From the bustling streets of Seoul to the quiet countryside, the sizzle of spicy broth and the delectable aroma of freshly cooked ramen noodles have long held a special place in the hearts of Koreans. At 25, and having traveled extensively throughout Korea, I've had the privilege to witness the diversity and depth of this dish. For those unfamiliar, Korean ramen, or 'ramyeon', is not just a dish; it's a culture, a memory, and a comforting touch of home. Let me take you on a journey of choosing the perfect Korean ramen recipe.

The Foundations

Start with the basics. The beauty of ramyeon is its simplicity. At its core, it's about the broth and the noodles. For a traditional flavor, the broth often boasts a robust combination of beef, anchovy, or even kelp. The trick is to simmer it long enough, allowing the flavors to meld seamlessly. As for the noodles, they should be springy, with a bite that is firm yet yielding.

Choosing Your Flavor

Ramen in Korea is not a one-size-fits-all dish. There's 'jjamppong' with its fiery seafood-infused broth, 'budae jjigae' which brings together an eclectic mix of sausages, ham, and spices, and the classic 'shin ramyeon' beloved for its spicy and hearty broth.

But, how do you choose?

It all boils down to personal preference. Do you crave the deep umami taste of the sea? Jjamppong is your go-to. Fancy a hint of Western influence with traditional Korean spices? Dive into a bowl of budae jjigae.

The Perfect Bowl

To make an easy and delicious bowl of shin ramyeon, you'll need:

1 packet of ramyeon noodles
2 cups of water
1 packet of soup base (included in the ramyeon package)
Sliced green onions, for garnish
Optional toppings: kimchi, egg, or sliced meat
In a pot, bring water to a boil. Add the noodles and cook for about 3 minutes. Add the soup base and stir. Once the noodles are cooked, transfer them to a bowl. Garnish with green onions and your chosen toppings.

Final Thoughts

Korean ramyeon is more than just instant noodles; it's a dish that has evolved with our culture, embodying our love for food and community. Whether you're 8 or 80, a bowl of piping hot ramyeon has the power to soothe, comfort, and bring back memories.

As a young chef, I've learned that the beauty of food lies not just in its taste but in the stories it tells. And for many Koreans, ramyeon is a story of home, of late-night conversations, and of memories shared over a simmering pot.

Happy cooking, and may your bowl of ramyeon bring warmth and joy to your heart!