There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, savory bowl of ramen, especially when it’s packed with vibrant, fresh vegetables. Our best veg ramen recipe is a celebration of flavors, textures, and colors, perfect for a nourishing meal any day of the week.
Whether you’re a longtime vegetarian or simply looking to add more plant-based meals to your diet, this recipe offers a delightful twist on the traditional Japanese noodle soup. It’s hearty, wholesome, and bursting with umami goodness thanks to a rich vegetable broth and an assortment of fresh veggies.
What makes this veg ramen truly stand out is its balance of flavors – from the salty soy-based broth and aromatic garlic to the subtle sweetness of carrots and the satisfying bite of mushrooms. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to customize with your favorite vegetables and toppings.
If you love Asian-inspired dishes, you’ll also enjoy exploring our Asian Vegan Recipes for Delicious and Healthy Meals for more culinary inspiration.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This veg ramen recipe is a perfect harmony of taste, health, and convenience. It’s:
- Rich and Flavorful: The broth is simmered with fresh vegetables, kombu, and shiitake mushrooms for a deep umami flavor without any meat.
- Versatile: Easily swap or add ingredients based on what’s in your fridge or seasonal availability.
- Nutritious: Loaded with fiber-rich vegetables and plant-based protein sources like tofu or edamame.
- Comforting and Filling: Perfect for chilly nights or whenever you need a bowl of warmth and goodness.
- Quick to Prepare: Ready in under 45 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight dinner.
Plus, it’s vegan and soy-friendly if you choose tamari or coconut aminos, so everyone at the table can enjoy it!
Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
---|---|---|
Vegetable broth | 6 cups | Homemade or low-sodium store-bought |
Dried shiitake mushrooms | 4-5 pieces | For umami flavor |
Kombu (dried kelp) | 1 piece (about 4 inches) | Optional, enhances broth taste |
Garlic cloves | 3, minced | Fresh for aroma |
Fresh ginger | 1-inch piece, thinly sliced | Brightens broth |
Soy sauce or tamari | 3 tbsp | Use tamari for gluten-free |
Mirin (sweet rice wine) | 2 tbsp | Adds subtle sweetness |
Sesame oil | 1 tbsp | For toasting and flavor |
Carrots | 1 medium, julienned | Crunchy texture |
Baby spinach | 2 cups | Fresh greens |
Green onions | 3, sliced thin | For garnish and mild bite |
Firm tofu | 200g (7 oz), cubed | Optional protein boost |
Ramen noodles | 4 servings | Fresh or dried, your choice |
Bean sprouts | 1 cup | Crunchy topping |
Sesame seeds | 1 tbsp | For garnish |
Chili flakes | To taste | Optional for heat |
Equipment
- Large soup pot or stockpot
- Medium saucepan (for noodles)
- Knife and cutting board
- Strainer or slotted spoon
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Wooden spoon or ladle
- Bowl for soaking shiitake mushrooms
Instructions
- Prepare the broth: Begin by soaking the dried shiitake mushrooms in 2 cups of warm water for about 20 minutes until plump. Reserve the soaking liquid by straining it to remove any grit. Set mushrooms and soaking liquid aside.
- Simmer the broth base: In a large soup pot, add the vegetable broth, reserved shiitake soaking liquid, and kombu. Heat gently over medium heat and bring to a simmer. Avoid boiling to keep kombu from becoming slimy.
- Add aromatics: Add minced garlic and sliced ginger to the pot. Let the broth simmer gently for 20 minutes to develop flavor. Remove the kombu after 10 minutes to prevent bitterness.
- Season the broth: Stir in soy sauce (or tamari) and mirin. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired. Add a splash more soy sauce if you prefer a saltier broth.
- Prepare the tofu: While the broth simmers, heat sesame oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add cubed tofu and sauté until golden on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside.
- Cook the noodles: In a separate saucepan, cook ramen noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
- Add vegetables: Add julienned carrots and the rehydrated shiitake mushrooms (sliced) to the simmering broth. Cook for 3-4 minutes until carrots are just tender but still crisp.
- Wilt the greens: Add baby spinach to the broth and cook for another minute just until wilted.
- Assemble the ramen bowls: Divide the cooked noodles between four bowls. Ladle the hot broth and vegetables over the noodles. Top each bowl with sautéed tofu, bean sprouts, sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and chili flakes if using.
- Serve immediately: Enjoy your warm, flavorful veg ramen while it’s hot.
Tips & Variations
“For a creamier broth, add a splash of coconut milk at step 4, or blend a small portion of cooked tofu with the broth for extra richness.”
Feel free to swap in other seasonal vegetables such as bok choy, snap peas, corn, or mushrooms like enoki or cremini. For extra protein, consider adding edamame or tempeh instead of tofu.
If you want to make this recipe soy-free, substitute soy sauce with coconut aminos and use chickpea-based noodles or rice noodles instead of traditional ramen noodles. For a spicy kick, add a drizzle of chili oil or sriracha on top.
Looking for more vegetable-based comfort food? Check out our Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas or try the Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners for more inspiration.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Per Serving (Approx.) |
---|---|
Calories | 350 kcal |
Protein | 15 g |
Carbohydrates | 50 g |
Fat | 8 g |
Fiber | 6 g |
Sodium | 700 mg |
Vitamin A | 120% DV |
Vitamin C | 25% DV |
Serving Suggestions
Serve your veg ramen with a side of pickled vegetables or kimchi for an authentic Japanese touch. A light cucumber salad or steamed edamame pairs wonderfully as well.
For a heartier meal, accompany it with our Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves to soak up every last drop of broth.
For dessert, nothing complements this meal better than a sweet treat like our Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious. It’s a perfect way to round off a satisfying plant-based meal.
Conclusion
This best veg ramen recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a bowl full of comfort, nutrition, and vibrant flavors. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, it strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and sophistication.
The rich, umami-packed broth combined with fresh vegetables and tender noodles makes it a crowd-pleaser that’s both wholesome and delicious.
Not only does it cater to vegetarians and vegans, but it’s also easily adaptable to various dietary preferences, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection. So next time you crave a warm, flavorful meal, dive into this bowl of veggie-packed ramen and savor every bite.
For more plant-based recipes that inspire, check out our collection of Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals and keep your kitchen vibrant and exciting!
📖 Recipe Card: Best Veg Ramen Recipe
Description: A flavorful and comforting vegetarian ramen packed with fresh vegetables and rich broth. Perfect for a quick and healthy meal.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT45M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 200g ramen noodles
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup bok choy, chopped
- 1 medium carrot, julienned
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 soft-boiled egg (optional)
- 1 tablespoon miso paste
Instructions
- Cook ramen noodles according to package instructions and drain.
- Heat sesame oil in a pot and sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant.
- Add shiitake mushrooms and cook for 5 minutes.
- Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
- Stir in miso paste and soy sauce, then reduce heat to simmer.
- Add bok choy and carrots, cook for another 5 minutes.
- Divide noodles into bowls and ladle broth and vegetables over them.
- Top with green onions and soft-boiled egg if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
Nutrition: Calories: 350 kcal | Protein: 12 g | Fat: 8 g | Carbs: 55 g
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