Spicy Coconut Curry Ramen 

Spicy Coconut Curry Ramen is a rich, creamy, and slightly spicy dish that combines the comforting flavors of ramen with the boldness of Thai-inspired ingredients. This one-pot meal is ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. The combination of coconut milk, red curry paste, and sambal oelek creates a flavorful broth that envelops the noodles, while the toppings add texture and freshness.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons toasted sesame oil, divided

• 3.5 ounces shiitake mushrooms, torn

• 4 garlic cloves, grated

• 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger

• 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)

• ½ teaspoon ground turmeric

• ½ teaspoon brown sugar

• 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon fish sauce

• 1 tablespoon sambal oelek (or other chili paste, more or less to taste)

• 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste

• 1 tablespoon lime juice

• 250 grams (9 ounces) instant ramen noodles

• 1 can (400 ml) unsweetened coconut milk

• For serving: chili oil, sesame seeds, chives, and boiled eggs (optional)

 Directions:

1. Prepare the Mushrooms: In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame oil over medium heat. Add the torn shiitake mushrooms and sauté until they become crispy, about 5 minutes. Remove them from the pot and set aside.

2. Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of sesame oil. Add the grated garlic and ginger, and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Simmer the Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Add the ground turmeric, brown sugar, soy sauce, fish sauce, sambal oelek, and red curry paste. Stir until the curry paste is fully dissolved. Let the broth simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

4. Add Coconut Milk and Lime Juice: Stir in the coconut milk and lime juice. Bring the mixture back to a simmer.

5. Cook the Noodles: Add the ramen noodles to the pot and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 2 minutes.

6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls. Top with the crispy shiitake mushrooms, a drizzle of chili oil, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, chopped chives, and a boiled egg if desired. Serve immediately.

 Nutritional Information (Per Serving Approximate)

• Calories: 539 kcal

• Protein: 12g

• Fat: 33g

• Carbohydrates: 47g

• Saturated Fat: 12g

• Cholesterol: 62mg

• Sodium: 1,100mg

• Potassium: 600mg

• Fiber: 3g

• Sugar: 5g