This vegan ramen recipe features a rich and flavorful broth, chewy noodles, and a variety of fresh toppings. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients

For the Mushroom Broth:

• 1 recipe Mushroom Broth (see below for details)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon mirin
• 2 tablespoons white miso paste

For the Ramen:

• 8 ounces dried ramen noodles (ensure they are vegan)
• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 pound shiitake mushrooms, sliced
• 1 large or 2 medium baby bok choy, sliced into thin wedges
• Baked tofu (or uncooked extra-firm tofu)
• Julienned daikon radish or carrot
• 1 bunch scallions, thinly sliced
• Chili crisp and tamari for serving

Mushroom Broth Preparation

Ingredients for Broth:

• 2 onions, halved
• 2 garlic bulbs
• 2 large sweet potatoes, diced
• 4 cups whole cremini mushrooms
• 2 cups whole shiitake mushrooms
• 2 celery stalks, quartered
• 3 green onions, quartered
• 2 thick slices of fresh ginger
• ½ head of napa cabbage, quartered
• 1 large piece kombu seaweed
• 12 cups fresh water

Instructions:

• Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
• Arrange onion halves, garlic bulbs, and diced sweet potatoes on a baking sheet. Roast for about 40 minutes until the vegetables are cooked through.
• In a large stockpot over medium heat, add mushrooms, celery, green onions, ginger, and cabbage. Add the roasted onion halves and one roasted garlic bulb.
• Sauté until the vegetables are wilted (about 10 minutes). Add salt, pepper, kombu, and water; bring to a simmer for one hour.
• Strain the broth but reserve any intact garlic cloves and mushrooms for the final ramen.

Assembling the Ramen

Cooking the Noodles:

• Bring the strained broth back to a boil. Add ramen noodles and cook according to package instructions (about 3 minutes).

Sautéing Vegetables:

• In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté shiitake mushrooms until browned.
• Add bok choy and cook until just wilted.

Final Assembly:

• In bowls, add a ladle of hot broth followed by cooked noodles.
• Top with sautéed mushrooms, bok choy, tofu, daikon radish or carrot, and scallions.
• Serve with chili crisp and tamari on the side.

Enjoy Your Vegan Ramen!

Creative Toppings for Vegan Ramen

1. Sautéed Vegetables: Add bok choy, spinach, or kale for a nutritious boost.
2. Tofu Variations: Use crispy baked tofu, marinated silken tofu, or tofu bacon crumbles for added texture and flavor.
3. Mushrooms: Include sautéed shiitake, enoki, or oyster mushrooms for umami richness.
4. Fresh Herbs: Garnish with cilantro, basil, or green onions for freshness.
5. Seaweed: Add nori strips or wakame for a sea-salty flavor.
6. Pickled Vegetables: Top with pickled ginger or radishes for a tangy contrast.
7. Chili Oil or Crisp: Drizzle chili oil or sprinkle chili crisp for heat and crunch.
8. Corn: Sweet corn adds a delightful pop of sweetness.

Making a Creamy Broth Without Dairy

To create a creamy broth without dairy, consider using:

• Coconut Milk: Adds richness and creaminess; use full-fat for best results.
• Cashew Cream: Blend soaked cashews with water until smooth and stir into the broth.
• Tahini: This sesame paste can add a nutty flavor and creaminess to the broth.
• Miso Paste: White miso can contribute to a creamy texture while enhancing umami flavor.

Quick Vegan Ramen Recipes

1. 20-Minute Ramen: Sauté garlic and ginger in sesame oil, add vegetable broth, soy sauce, and ramen noodles; simmer until noodles are cooked. Top with quick sautéed vegetables and tofu.
2. 30-Minute Ramen: Combine sautéed garlic, ginger, and dried shiitake mushrooms with vegetable broth and miso paste; add noodles and tofu, simmering until cooked.

Best Vegan Ramen Noodles

• Look for dried ramen noodles that are specifically labeled as vegan; avoid those containing egg.
• Brands like Lotus Foods offer gluten-free options made from rice.
• Check the Asian section of grocery stores for various vegan-friendly options.

Using Store-Bought Broth for Vegan Ramen

Yes, you can use store-bought vegetable broth to save time. For enhanced flavor:

• Opt for mushroom broth to deepen the umami taste.
• Add miso paste or soy sauce to boost the savory profile of the broth.

This dish is warming and comforting, perfect for any day of the week! Adjust toppings according to your preference for added flavor and texture.