Growing up, I thought ramen always came with those little silver flavor packets from the store. That’s just how we ate it in our house – boil the noodles, dump in the powder, and call it dinner. It wasn’t until I tried real ramen at a local Japanese restaurant that I realized what I’d been missing all those years.
Now I make my own ramen seasoning at home, and let me tell you – it’s way easier than you might think. No more mystery ingredients or overwhelming sodium levels. Just simple pantry staples mixed together to create that savory, comforting taste that makes a bowl of ramen feel like a warm hug.
Suggestions for Ingredient Substitution
Chicken bullion powder can be replaced with vegetable bullion powder for a vegetarian option, maintaining the savory base flavor. Use the same amount, adjusting salt if needed. For a lower-sodium alternative, consider using nutritional yeast, which adds umami flavor and B vitamins. Start with half the amount and adjust to taste.
Dried vegetables can be substituted with freeze-dried vegetables or vegetable powder for convenience. These options provide similar flavor and nutritional benefits. Adjust quantities based on the concentration of the substitute used.
Shitake mushroom powder can be replaced with other mushroom powders like porcini or a blend of mushroom varieties. These alternatives offer similar earthy flavors and potential health benefits. If unavailable, consider using a small amount of miso paste for umami flavor, adjusting other seasonings as needed.
| Preparation Time | 5-10 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 0-0 minutes |
| Total Time | 5-10 minutes |
| Level of Difficulty | Easy |
Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
- Calories: 20-30
- Protein: 1-2 g
- Fat: 0-1 g
- Carbohydrates: 4-6 g
Ingredients
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1 1/2 tbsp chicken bouillon powder (I use Better Than Bouillon brand)
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp dried vegetables (finely crushed for better blending)
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp light brown sugar (adds a subtle sweetness to balance flavors)
- 1/2 tsp shiitake mushroom powder (for a deep umami flavor)
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
Step 1: Gather and Combine Ingredients
Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients: 1 teaspoon onion powder, 2 teaspoons garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger, 1/2 teaspoon finely ground black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin, 1/2 teaspoon chili powder, 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional), 1 teaspoon dried parsley, 1 and 1/2 tablespoons chicken bouillon powder, 1 tablespoon dried vegetables, 1/2 teaspoon shiitake mushroom powder (optional), 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt or fine sea salt, and 1/4 teaspoon light brown sugar (optional).
Step 2: Mix the Seasoning Blend
In a mixing bowl, thoroughly combine all the gathered ingredients.
Make sure they are evenly distributed for a well-balanced seasoning blend.
Step 3: Store the Seasoning
Transfer the seasoning blend into an airtight container to maintain its freshness.
Store it in a cool, dry place for future use.
Step 4: Use the Seasoning in Ramen
When preparing ramen, add 2 to 4 teaspoons of the seasoning blend per serving or bowl.
Adjust the amount to suit your taste preferences.
Enjoy the enhanced flavor of your ramen!
