These Sweet Chili Ramen Noodles are quick and fun to make! With a tangy and sweet sauce, they bring a pop of flavor to your day. Perfect for a busy weeknight meal!
I love how easy they are to whip up. Just boil the noodles, toss them in the sauce, and you’re ready to go! They’re great with veggies or even some crispy chicken on top. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Instant Ramen Noodles: These are quick and cook fast! If you prefer a healthier option, you can substitute with whole grain or rice noodles for more texture and nutrition.
Beef: While I like using beef for added flavor, chicken or tofu makes great substitutes too! If you’re vegetarian, consider using tempeh or mushrooms for a hearty touch.
Baby Bok Choy: This adds a nice, fresh crunch! You can swap it with spinach, kale, or any leafy green you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Sweet Chili Sauce: If you’re looking for less sweetness, a spicy sauce or even a homemade mix of chili paste with honey can work well. Alternatively, Sriracha can offer a similar flavor!
How Do You Get the Perfectly Cooked Soft-Boiled Egg?
Soft-boiled eggs can be tricky, but with the right method, you can achieve a perfect runny yolk! Here’s how:
- Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil.
- Gently drop the eggs in and let them cook for exactly 6-7 minutes.
- Once the time is up, transfer the eggs to an ice bath (a bowl of ice and water) for a few minutes to stop the cooking process.
- Peel and slice in half. The yolk should be perfectly soft and creamy!
Sweet Chili Ramen Noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 packs instant ramen noodles (discard seasoning packets)
- 1/2 cup cooked beef slices, seasoned and sautéed
- 1 soft-boiled egg, halved
- 1 cup baby bok choy or similar leafy greens
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 lime wedge
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional)
- 2 cups water
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 5-7 minutes of cooking time, so you can have a delicious meal ready in under 20 minutes! Perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something tasty but don’t have much time to spare.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Noodles:
Start by bringing 2 cups of water to a boil in a medium pot. Add the instant ramen noodles and cook them according to the package instructions, which will usually take about 3 minutes. Once they’re just tender, drain the noodles and set them aside.
2. Sauté the Bok Choy:
While the noodles are cooking, grab a small pan and sauté the baby bok choy. Add a tiny splash of water to help it steam, cooking until it’s wilted but still bright green—this should take about 2-3 minutes. Once done, take it off the heat and set aside.
3. Warm the Beef:
In the same pan, add your cooked beef slices to warm them back up for a minute or two. This will enhance their flavor and bring your dish together.
4. Mix the Noodles and Sauce:
Now, transfer the drained noodles to a large mixing bowl. Add in the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Toss everything well until the noodles are thoroughly coated with that delicious sauce.
5. Assemble Your Dish:
Time to plate up! Divide the sauced noodles into serving bowls. On one side, arrange the warmed beef slices, and on another side, place the sautéed bok choy. Lastly, add a halved soft-boiled egg right on top of the noodles.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Finish the dish by garnishing with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds, if you like. Serve it with a lime wedge on the side for that extra zesty flavor. Just give it a squeeze over your noodles before diving in!
7. Time to Enjoy:
Now that your sweet chili ramen noodles are ready, dig in and savor the perfect blend of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute baby bok choy with any leafy greens like spinach, kale, or even broccoli. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they get tender but remain vibrant.
How Do I Store Leftover Ramen Noodles?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, just add a splash of water and warm them on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. You may want to add a bit more sauce to refresh the flavor!
What Can I Substitute for the Beef?
If you’re looking for a different protein, chicken or shrimp would be excellent alternatives. For a vegetarian option, try using tofu or tempeh, and be sure to sauté them well to develop flavor!
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free ramen noodles or rice noodles, and make sure your soy sauce is gluten-free as well. This way, you can enjoy all the flavors without the gluten!
