How to Cook Ramen Noodles in the Microwave

Ramen noodles are a timeless classic when you’re looking for a quick and easy meal. But did you know you can also cook ramen in the microwave?

In less than 5 minutes, you can have a steaming bowl of comfort.

No more waiting for water to boil or washing up pots afterward. You only need a microwave-safe bowl, ramen noodles, and the provided seasoning packet.

Transform a pack of ramen into a tasty microwave feast.

Microwave Ramen Noodles

Ah, the microwave, a trusted companion for busy souls seeking a speedy meal fix. 

And for ramen noodles, this humble kitchen appliance can work wonders.

Submerge the ramen noodles in water and pop them in the microwave. After a few minutes, you’ll have a steaming bowl of goodness.

With the cooking complete, it’s time to unleash your creative prowess!

Sprinkle in the provided seasoning packet, or experiment with your blend of flavors. 

(OR do both! But don’t add extra salt- unlike you like drinking ocean water.) 

Consider a dash of soy sauce, a squeeze of citrus, or a pinch of herbs and spices. 

These little touches can transform your humble microwave ramen into an irresistible treat.

And there you have it – microwaved ramen noodles, a lifesaver for the busy cook. A warm and comforting bowl, ready in a fraction of the time. 

Ingredients

• Instant Ramen Noodles – Any instant ramen noodle variety works. Choose which flavor you like the best.
• Water – I used two cups of water for every packet. Submerge the noodles fully. Add more water if needed.

How to Cook Ramen Noodles in the Microwave

1. Prepare the noodles. Take the noodles out of the packet and place them in a microwave-safe bowl. Pour 2 cups of water into the dish, so you submerge the noodles.
2. Cook it in the microwave. Cover the bowl and microwave it on high for 2 minutes. After 2 minutes, stir the noodles and microwave again for 30 seconds- 1 minute. Check the noodles for doneness.
3. Add your desired toppings and get creative. Drain the noodles, if that’s your preference. Elevate your ramen noodles with your desired toppings, broth, and seasonings.

Tips for Microwaving Ramen

• Before microwaving, break the ramen noodles into smaller pieces. This ensures even cooking.
• Pour enough water into the bowl to cover the noodles completely. This prevents the noodles from drying out when you microwave them.
• Follow the instructions on the ramen package as a general guideline. Start with a shorter cooking time and then check the noodles.
  • If still firm, microwave in 30-second intervals until they reach the desired tenderness.
• Stir halfway through or at every interval. This step helps disperse the heat and ensures that the noodles cook uniformly.
• Be cautious when removing the bowl from the microwave, as it can be hot. Use oven mitts or a towel to protect your hands.

Variations

1. Add vegetables.

Toss in fresh or frozen vegetables like sliced carrots, peas, corn, or bell peppers. This addition will bring color, flavor, and nutrients to your ramen. 

You can either cook them in the broth or add them raw.

2. Include protein. 

Instant ramen often lacks protein. So, you can enhance it with cooked chicken, beef, shrimp, tofu, or egg. 

For eggs, you can either poach them in the broth or cook them separately.

3. Spice it up.

Experiment with different spices and seasonings to give your ramen more depth of flavor. 

Try chili flakes, sriracha, soy sauce, sesame oil, or aromatics. 

Be cautious with spice levels and adjust according to your taste.

4. Upgrade the broth.  

Enhance the flavor by using half the seasoning packet and adding your broth. 

You can use chicken, beef, or vegetable broth to replace some or all the water. Or try adding a dash of miso paste for a savory kick.

5. Toppings galore.

Get creative with toppings! Sprinkle some green onions, cilantro, or chopped herbs on top for freshness. 

Add some crunch with crushed peanuts or sesame seeds. Crumble some nori (dried seaweed) for a hint of umami. 

You can add cheese, a dollop of peanut butter, or a drizzle of honey, too.

How to Store and Reheat Cooked Ramen

No need to worry if you’ve prepared ramen and cannot finish it in one sitting. You can save it for a later meal in the refrigerator.

Let your ramen cool and transfer it to a container with a secure lid. The ramen should stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftover ramen, reheat it in the microwave.

Use a microwave-safe bowl and transfer your stored ramen into it. Microwaves can vary in power, so warming the ramen in short bursts is ideal. 

Heat it in 20-second intervals, stirring the ramen between sessions to disperse the heat.

If you don’t want the ramen to dry out, add a splash of water or broth.