Tasty Ground Pork Ramen

Coming up with a satisfying dinner on busy weeknights can feel like an impossible task. Between work deadlines, after-school activities, and the general chaos of everyday life, it’s tempting to just order takeout and call it a day. That’s where this ground pork ramen comes in – it’s a quick, filling meal that brings the comfort of your favorite noodle shop right to your kitchen. With simple ingredients you can find at any grocery store and a cooking time that won’t eat up your whole evening, this recipe has become my go-to when I need something hot and comforting without the fuss.

Suggestions for Ingredient Substitution

Ground pork can be replaced with ground turkey or crumbled firm tofu for a leaner or vegetarian option. Adjust cooking time as needed, as turkey may cook faster and tofu requires less cooking. For tofu, press it to remove excess moisture before crumbling.

Soy sauce can be substituted with coconut aminos or tamari for those avoiding soy or gluten. Use slightly less coconut aminos as it’s sweeter than soy sauce. Tamari can be used in a 1:1 ratio.

Ramen noodles can be swapped with zucchini noodles (zoodles) or shirataki noodles for a low-carb alternative. Zoodles require minimal cooking, while shirataki noodles should be rinsed and briefly heated. Both options will significantly reduce the dish’s calorie content and provide additional nutrients.

Preparation Time	10-15 minutes
Cooking Time	15-25 minutes
Total Time	25-40 minutes
Level of Difficulty	Medium

Estimated Nutrition

Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):

• Calories: 1200-1400
• Protein: 70-80 g
• Fat: 50-60 g
• Carbohydrates: 140-160 g

Ingredients

For the ramen stir-fry:

• 1 minced garlic clove (freshly minced for best flavor)
• 1 lb ground pork (90% lean preferred for less grease)
• 3 packs ramen noodles (seasoning discarded)
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup grated carrots
• 1 pinch red pepper flakes
• 1/2 cup low sodium soy sauce (I use Kikkoman)

For serving:

• 2 eggs

Step 1: Sauté the Pork, Carrots, and Garlic

Begin by adding a drizzle of olive oil to your sauté pan or skillet.

Heat the pan over medium heat and add the pork, carrots, and garlic.

Cook until the pork is browned and the carrots start to soften, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.

Step 2: Add Flavorings and Simmer

Once the pork is browned, sprinkle in ground ginger, brown sugar, and red pepper flakes.

Add a generous splash of soy sauce.

Stir the ingredients together to coat the pork and carrots evenly.

Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes, letting the flavors blend and deepen.

Step 3: Incorporate Ramen Noodles

Add your pre-cooked ramen noodles to the skillet with the pork and carrot mixture.

Stir well to ensure the noodles are completely coated in the sauce.

The noodles will absorb the majority of the liquid, enhancing their flavor.

Step 4: Cook the Eggs

Push the noodle and pork mixture to one side of the pan, creating some space.

Crack the eggs into the open area and let them cook for a bit.

As they start to set, break them up with your spatula or spoon.

Once the eggs are mostly cooked, mix them in with the noodles and pork, ensuring everything is well combined.

Step 5: Serve and Add Toppings

Transfer the dish to serving plates or bowls.

Top with your favorite garnishes such as sriracha sauce, chopped green onions, additional red pepper flakes, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

Serve immediately and enjoy your flavorful noodle dish!