Dive into a steaming bowl of this Savory Shiitake & Spinach Shoyu Ramen, a light yet deeply satisfying version of the classic comfort food. This recipe focuses on umami-rich broth, vibrant vegetables, and lean protein, making it a perfect choice when you’re craving ramen without derailing your wellness goals. You’ll love how the earthy shiitake mushrooms, fresh spinach, and perfectly cooked noodles come together in a flavorful dance that warms you from the inside out.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 45 mins (includes simmering time)
Servings: 2
Ingredients:
For the Ramen Broth & Components:
- 4 cups Vegetable Broth, low sodium
- 1 oz Dried Shiitake Mushrooms
- 2 tbsp Soy Sauce, low sodium
- 1 tbsp Mirin
- 1 inch Ginger, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves Garlic, smashed
- 2 portions Ramen Noodles, whole wheat or brown rice noodles recommended (about 5-6 oz total dry)
- 4 oz Firm Tofu, pressed and cubed (or 2 small boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced)
- 2 cups Fresh Spinach
- 1 cup Bean Sprouts
- 2 Soft-Boiled Eggs, halved
- 2 Green Onions, thinly sliced
- 1 sheet Nori, cut into strips
- 1 tsp Sesame Oil, toasted
Instructions:
- Prepare Broth Base: In a medium saucepan, combine the vegetable broth, dried shiitake mushrooms, soy sauce, mirin, sliced ginger, and smashed garlic. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer Broth: Cover the saucepan and let the broth simmer over low heat for at least 20-25 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
- Cook Eggs: While the broth simmers, prepare your soft-boiled eggs. Bring a small pot of water to a boil, gently add eggs, and cook for 6-7 minutes. Immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Peel once cooled.
- Cook Protein: If using tofu, lightly pan-fry or bake until golden. If using chicken, you can poach it in the simmering broth for the last 5-7 minutes of cooking time until cooked through, then remove and shred.
- Strain Broth & Cook Noodles: Once the broth has simmered, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean pot, discarding the solids (or save the rehydrated shiitakes, slice them, and add back to the ramen as a topping). Bring the strained broth back to a simmer. Cook the ramen noodles according to package directions. Drain well.
- Wilt Spinach: Add the fresh spinach to the hot broth and let it wilt, which should take about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
- Assemble Bowls: Divide the cooked noodles between two serving bowls. Ladle the hot shoyu broth over the noodles.
- Add Toppings: Arrange the cooked tofu or chicken, halved soft-boiled eggs, bean sprouts, sliced rehydrated shiitakes (if using), and sliced green onions over the noodles and broth.
- Garnish and Serve: Drizzle each bowl with a little toasted sesame oil and garnish with nori strips. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious, light ramen!
Recipe Notes:
- Noodle Choice: Whole wheat or brown rice ramen noodles add extra fiber. You can also use soba noodles or even zucchini noodles for a very low-carb option, though the texture will differ.
- Mushroom Power: Fresh shiitake mushrooms can be used instead of dried; sauté them before adding to the broth. Other mushrooms like cremini or oyster mushrooms also work well.
- Spice It Up: For a spicy kick, add a dash of sriracha, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, or a teaspoon of chili garlic sauce to your bowl.
- Protein Swaps: Sliced cooked pork tenderloin or even edamame can be great protein additions.
- Make it Vegan: Ensure your ramen noodles are egg-free and omit the soft-boiled egg or use a vegan egg alternative.
- Broth Depth: For an even richer broth, consider adding a piece of kombu (dried kelp) while simmering, removing it before it boils.
- Quick Greens: Baby bok choy, quickly blanched or wilted in the broth, is another excellent green to add.
- Storage: Store leftover broth and components separately in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat broth and assemble just before serving.
There you have it – a wonderfully light, deeply flavorful, and satisfying Savory Shiitake & Spinach Shoyu Ramen that’s perfect for a cozy meal without the heaviness! This recipe proves that comfort food can be both delicious and supportive of your wellness journey. We hope you enjoy this nourishing and delightful ramen experience! Happy slurping!
Estimated Nutritional Information (per serving, with tofu and 1 egg, excluding noodles as they vary widely)
Calories: 250-350 (broth & toppings only); Protein: 18-25g; Fat: 12-18g (Saturated Fat: 2-4g); Carbohydrates: 15-25g (Fiber: 4-6g; Sugar: 5-8g); Sodium: 800-1200mg (can be lower with very low sodium broth & soy sauce). Add noodle nutrition separately.
Disclaimer: Nutritional information is estimated and can vary depending on specific ingredients, brands, and serving sizes used. This information is provided for guidance only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical or nutritional advice.
