Air-Fried Ramen: Quick, Easy, And Delicious?

Air fryers are a convenient way to make quick, tasty meals. But can you use them to make ramen? The short answer is yes, but it's not the most efficient way to cook noodles. While you can air fry just about any food, ramen noodles are best cooked on a stovetop or in the microwave. Once the noodles are cooked, you can use the air fryer to make a delicious ramen stir fry by adding your choice of vegetables and protein.

Air-frying ramen with vegetables and chicken

Ingredients:

• Ramen noodles (1 packet or 3 ounces)
• Frozen stir-fry vegetable mix (about 12 ounces)
• Frozen grilled chicken breast strips (pre-cooked, about 20 ounces)
• Oil (optional)
• Seasonings of your choice

Instructions:

• Cook the ramen noodles: Although you can air fry ramen, it is more efficient to cook the noodles separately. Boil water on the stovetop and cook the ramen according to the package directions. Alternatively, cook the ramen in a microwave-safe bowl for about 2 minutes.
• Prepare the vegetables and chicken: Place the desired amount of frozen vegetables and chicken in the air fryer basket. You can adjust the amount based on your preference. Add any seasonings, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or salt, to taste. Stir everything together to evenly distribute the seasonings.
• Air fry the vegetables and chicken: Set the air fryer to 370°F (188°C) and cook the vegetables and chicken for 8-10 minutes, or until they are tender and crispy to your liking.
• Combine and serve: Drain the water from the cooked ramen noodles and combine them with the air-fried vegetables and chicken in a bowl. Add any additional seasonings or sauces, such as soy sauce or stir-fry sauce, and mix well. If you prefer crispier noodles, place the mixture back into the air fryer basket, add a spritz of oil, and air fry for 1-2 minutes at 400°F (204°C).
• Garnish and enjoy: Top your ramen with garnishes such as sesame seeds, peanuts, cilantro, green onions, sriracha, or sweet chili sauce. Your air-fried ramen with vegetables and chicken is now ready to be served!

Tips and Variations:

• You can use fresh vegetables instead of frozen ones. Some options include red peppers, green onions, snap peas, or green beans.
• If using a pre-packaged ramen with a seasoning packet, you can use the seasoning on the chicken and vegetables or create your own blend.
• For a vegan or vegetarian option, replace the chicken with tofu or your preferred meat substitute.
• This recipe is versatile, so feel free to experiment with different types of noodles, proteins, and vegetables to suit your taste.

How to make ramen noodle stir fry

Ramen noodle stir fry is a great, quick and easy recipe for busy evenings when you need a filling, healthy, and tasty meal. You can make it in an air fryer with just three ingredients in 15 minutes! Here is how you can make ramen noodle stir fry:

Ingredients:

You will need the following ingredients:

• 1 packet of Top Ramen or 3 ounces of Ramen Noodles
• 1 package (about 12 ounces) of frozen stir fry vegetable mix (fresh vegetables can also be used)
• 1 package of frozen grilled chicken breast strips (the precooked and frozen chicken strips – a 20-ounce bag should be enough)

Instructions:

• Boil water on the stovetop and cook the ramen noodles according to the package directions. Alternatively, you can cook the ramen noodles in a microwave-safe bowl for about 2 minutes.
• Place the desired amount of frozen vegetables and frozen (or cold) chicken in the air fryer basket. When making a serving for 2, use a handful or two of chicken strips and a layer of frozen vegetables.
• Season the vegetables and chicken (optional). You can use the seasoning that comes with the Top Ramen packet, or try other seasoning mixtures.
• Cook for about 8 minutes at 370 °F, or until the vegetables and chicken are warmed through and crispy to your liking.
• Drain the water from the ramen noodles and combine them with the vegetables and chicken in a bowl.
• Add any additional seasonings or sauces of your choice, stir everything together, and enjoy!
• For crispier noodles, spritz a little oil on them, and air fry for another 1-2 minutes at 400 °F.

Seasoning Ideas:

• Garlic powder, onion powder, and salt
• Stir Fry Sauce Mix
• Homemade Thai Seasoning Mix
• Homemade Curry seasoning mix
• Get creative and experiment with different combinations of seasonings!

Ramen noodles: stovetop vs. microwave

Ramen is an iconic, cheap, and filling dish that can be cooked in several ways. While cooking ramen on the stovetop is a well-known method, using a microwave is another popular alternative. Here is a detailed comparison of the two methods:

Stovetop Ramen:

The stovetop method is a traditional and straightforward way to cook ramen. Here are the steps and some tips for making stovetop ramen:

• Prepare a small pot with 2 cups (500ml) of water and bring it to a boil.
• Add the dry ramen noodles to the boiling water. You can break up the noodles beforehand if you prefer shorter, soup-like noodles that are easier to eat with a spoon.
• Cook the noodles for about 3 minutes. Use a fork to separate the noodles gently as they soften.
• Turn off the heat and mix in the seasoning packet with the noodles. Stir thoroughly to dissolve the powder.
• You can also add cooked vegetables or leftover meat to make a more filling and nutritious meal.
• For a more unique flavour, you can add fresh parsley, grated carrot, a squeeze of lemon or lime, or other ingredients of your choice.

Microwave Ramen:

Cooking ramen in the microwave is a convenient and quick alternative to the stovetop method. Here are the steps and tips for making ramen in the microwave:

• Use a microwave-safe container and add 1 to 2 cups of water, depending on how soupy you like your ramen.
• Place the ramen noodles in the water. You can break up the noodles beforehand if you prefer, but it's not necessary.
• Cover the container loosely with a lid or paper towel to prevent splattering.
• Microwave on high power for 3 to 5 minutes, depending on your microwave's size and power.
• Stop and stir the noodles halfway through cooking to ensure even cooking and prevent overcooking.
• Let the noodles sit in the microwave for about 3 minutes after cooking to allow them to cool slightly and finish cooking.
• Carefully remove the container from the microwave, as it will be very hot. Use oven mitts or pot holders to protect your hands.
• Stir in the flavour packet or seasoning of your choice. You can also add cooked meat and vegetables to enhance your dish.
• If you want to boil the water separately and then pour it over the noodles, microwave the water for at least 2 to 3 minutes, or until it is confidently hot.

Comparison:

The main difference between stovetop and microwave ramen is the amount of water used. Stovetop ramen typically requires 2 cups of water, while you can use less water in the microwave. Microwave ramen is a faster and more convenient option, especially for those who don't want to use a stove or wash pots. However, stovetop ramen offers more opportunities for customisation and allows you to tweak your ramen with various ingredients. It is also more eco-friendly, as it generates less garbage compared to microwave ramen, which may use plastic containers.

Air-frying frozen vs. non-frozen food

Air fryers are a great way to cook frozen foods quickly and conveniently. They can also be used to cook non-frozen foods, but there are some differences in the way you prepare and cook frozen and non-frozen foods in an air fryer.

When cooking frozen foods in an air fryer, it is important to adjust the temperature and cook time. Air fryers are essentially convection ovens, so the recommended cook time listed on the package will be too long. Reduce the heat by 10 to 25 degrees and halve the cooking time. This way, you can check on your food and adjust as needed. It is also important to avoid overcrowding your air fryer basket, as this can result in uneven cooking. For breaded or wrapped foods, fill the basket halfway and shake it halfway through cooking. For open-faced or uncoated foods, place them in a single layer in the basket.

When cooking non-frozen foods in an air fryer, you don't have to worry about adjusting the temperature as much. However, it is still important to avoid overcrowding the basket to ensure even cooking. You may also need to preheat your air fryer for non-frozen foods, especially if you want a crispy texture.

Another difference between cooking frozen and non-frozen foods in an air fryer is the use of grease. When cooking frozen foods, it is often helpful to lightly coat the basket and food with oil or fat, especially if the food is not already fatty. This can help to crisp up the food and prevent sticking. With non-frozen foods, this step may not be necessary, depending on the natural moisture content of the food.

In terms of the types of foods that work well in the air fryer, frozen pre-cooked, breaded, wrapped, or bite-sized foods are great options. This includes dumplings, fish sticks, fries, and mini meatballs. Non-frozen fresh vegetables can also be cooked in the air fryer, but they may dry out or become soggy, depending on the type of vegetable. Frozen vegetables can be a bit more tricky and are often better suited for soups, stews, or smoothies.

Seasoning ideas for ramen in an air fryer

Seasoning is a great way to elevate your ramen and make it even more delicious. Here are some ideas for seasoning your ramen when cooking it in an air fryer:

• Soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions for an Asian-inspired flavor.
• Garlic powder, onion powder, and dried herbs like rosemary and thyme for a classic savory taste.
• Red pepper flakes, lemon juice, and grated Parmesan cheese for a spicy and tangy twist.
• Buffalo sauce and blue cheese crumbles for a spicy and creamy flavor combination.
• You can also experiment with different sauces such as teriyaki, hoisin, or peanut sauce to give your ramen a unique flavor profile.
• For a healthier option, use broth instead of water to add a richer taste to your ramen. Try chicken, beef, or vegetable broth for added flavor.
• If you're feeling creative, try adding some sliced vegetables or protein, such as tofu or chicken, to make your ramen more nutritious and satisfying.
• Don't be afraid to get creative and combine different seasonings to find your perfect flavor!

Frequently asked questions