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

Ramen is a popular dish, but can you make it in an air fryer? The answer is yes! Air fryer ramen is a quick, easy, and tasty meal that can be made in just a few simple steps. This article will introduce you to the world of air fryer ramen, providing a step-by-step guide to achieving crispy, delicious ramen at home.

Boil noodles before air frying

Boiling your noodles before air frying is a crucial step in achieving the perfect crunchy texture for your ramen. Here's a detailed guide to walk you through the process:

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles for Boiling

Start by choosing the right type of noodles. Opt for medium-thick noodles, as flat or super-thin varieties may result in uneven frying or burning. Measure out the desired amount of noodles, usually around 10 ounces, and have a fine mesh colander ready for draining the water after boiling.

Step 2: Boil the Noodles

Fill a pan with water and season it with salt. Bring the water to a boil. The salt will not only season the noodles but also raise the boiling point of the water, helping to cook the noodles more effectively. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, carefully add the noodles to the pan.

Step 3: Cook the Noodles

Allow the noodles to cook until they are al dente. This means they should be slightly firm to the bite but not hard. Stir the noodles intermittently to prevent them from sticking together and cook them according to the package instructions for the best results.

Step 4: Drain and Dry the Noodles

After the noodles have finished cooking, it's time to drain the water. Use the fine mesh colander to drain the noodles thoroughly. Spread the cooked noodles on a plate and let them air dry for around 30-40 minutes. This drying step is crucial, as it ensures that the noodles will not stick together in the air fryer and will fry evenly.

Step 5: Prepare the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. This temperature will ensure that your noodles get crispy without burning. While the air fryer is heating up, you can break up any clumps of noodles that may have formed during the drying process.

Step 6: Air Fry the Noodles

Once the air fryer is hot, carefully place the noodles into the basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the basket, as this can cause the noodles to steam instead of crisping. Air fry the noodles for 5 minutes, and then flip them over to ensure even cooking. Continue air frying for another 3-4 minutes until the noodles are golden brown and crispy.

Step 7: Serve or Store

Remove the noodles from the air fryer and use them as desired. You can serve them immediately, or let them cool and store them in an airtight container for up to 10 days. These crispy noodles are perfect as a topping for soups or salads, or as a base for other recipes like Chinese Bhel or American Chopsuey.

Use cooking oil spray

When making ramen in an air fryer, it is important to use a cooking oil spray to ensure the noodles don't stick together and become a mess. The oil also helps to create a crispy texture and enhances the flavour of the ramen.

Firstly, you should split the ramen into two slices that are about 1 cm thick. This is because the ramen is usually quite thick, and splitting it will ensure even cooking. Next, spray the ramen with cooking oil on each side. You can adjust the amount of oil according to your preference.

After spraying the ramen with oil, it's time to air fry! Set your air fryer to 375°F and place the ramen in the basket. Air fry each side for 3-4 minutes until golden brown. If you're using an air fryer that requires preheating, make sure to preheat it to the desired temperature before placing the ramen inside.

Once the ramen is cooked, you can season it to your liking. French fry seasoning or taco seasoning works great, but feel free to experiment with other options like garlic powder, onion powder, or stir-fry sauce mix. You can also add some protein and vegetables to your ramen for a more nutritious meal.

Add seasoning

Seasoning is an optional but important step in making ramen in an air fryer. It adds flavour and character to the dish. Here are some tips and suggestions for seasoning your ramen:

Firstly, decide on the type of seasoning you want to use. If you're using a pre-packaged ramen, it usually comes with a small seasoning packet. You can use this to season your ramen, or you can get creative and experiment with different flavours.

Some classic seasoning combinations that work well include garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. This trio of spices adds a savoury kick to your ramen without being too overpowering. You can also try stir-fry sauce mix, which is easily available in stores. If you're feeling adventurous, make your own stir-fry sauce at home by mixing chicken broth, low-sodium soy sauce, honey, toasted sesame oil, and crushed red pepper flakes.

For those who like their food spicy, a homemade curry seasoning mix is a great option. Include spices like garlic, ginger, curry powder, ground coriander, cumin, paprika, and chilli powder to give your ramen an Indian flavour profile. If you want something with a kick but not too spicy, a homemade Thai seasoning mix is a good choice. This is a great way to change the flavour profile of your ramen without making it too hot.

If you're a fan of international cuisines, try adding some Italian flavours to your ramen. Peanut sauce, for example, goes well with spring rolls or noodles. Or, add some Italian herbs and spices to your ramen for a unique twist.

When seasoning your ramen, it's important to taste as you go. This way, you can adjust the seasoning to your preference and ensure it's not too salty or spicy. Add a little at a time, mixing it well with the ramen, and taste before adding more.

Finally, don't be afraid to experiment and have fun with your seasoning. Try different combinations of spices and sauces to find your perfect flavour profile. You can even add some crushed red pepper flakes or chilli oil to your ramen for an extra kick. The options are endless, so get creative and enjoy your delicious, flavourful ramen!

Don't overcrowd the air fryer

So, you want to make ramen in your air fryer? It's important to keep in mind that air fryers are small, efficient convection ovens that cook food by circulating hot air around it. This means that overcrowding the air fryer basket can lead to less-than-ideal results. Here's why you should avoid overcrowding and how to make the most of your air fryer when cooking ramen:

Firstly, understand that the air fryer's cooking power comes from its ability to circulate hot air around the food. If you fill the basket to the brim, the air cannot move freely, and the food will not cook evenly. This can lead to soggy, steamed noodles instead of the desired crispy texture. To avoid this, it is recommended to cook in batches. Even if it means cooking smaller portions, you'll achieve better airflow and more consistent results.

Another reason to avoid overcrowding is to prevent steam buildup. When food is piled up, it can trap steam, which is the enemy of crispiness. By cooking in batches, you allow steam to escape, ensuring that your ramen gets crispy instead of soggy.

Additionally, different foods have different cooking requirements. For example, ramen noodles are typically cooked in a thin layer to ensure even cooking. If you overcrowd the basket, you might end up with unevenly cooked noodles, with some parts crispy and others undercooked.

To make the most of your air fryer when cooking ramen, follow these tips:

• Prepare the ramen according to the package instructions before placing it in the air fryer.
• Grease the air fryer basket or use a mini deep dish pizza pan to prevent sticking.
• Cook the ramen in a single layer, ensuring it has enough space to crisp up.
• If you're cooking a large portion, divide it into batches. Cooking in smaller batches will give you better results.
• Feel free to experiment with seasonings. French fry seasoning, taco seasoning, or even just salt and pepper can enhance the flavor of your ramen.
• If you're feeling creative, add some cheese or a fried egg on top of your cooked ramen for a heartier dish.

Remember, the key to successful air frying is to avoid overcrowding the basket. By giving your ramen the space it needs, you'll achieve the crispy, delicious results you're looking for. So, take your time, cook in batches, and enjoy the convenience and flavor of air-fried ramen!

Cook at 375-400°F

To make ramen in an air fryer, you can cook the noodles at 375-400°F.

First, cook the ramen noodles according to the package instructions. You can cook them on the stovetop or in the microwave. If cooking on the stovetop, boil water and cook the noodles according to the package directions. If using the microwave, place the noodles in a microwave-safe bowl and cover them with water. Microwave for 1:30 to 2 minutes, or until the noodles are done to your liking. Drain the water from the noodles once they are cooked.

Next, prepare your desired toppings and seasonings. You can sauté mushrooms and garlic, or use the seasoning packet that comes with the ramen. Other seasoning ideas include garlic powder, onion powder, stir-fry sauce mix, homemade Thai seasoning mix, or curry seasoning mix.

If you want to make your ramen in an air fryer basket, place your desired amount of toppings and seasonings into the basket along with the cooked noodles. Spritz some oil on the noodles and air fry for 1-2 minutes at 400°F, or until everything is crispy to your liking.

Alternatively, you can layer the toppings and noodles in an oven-safe glass dish and cook in the air fryer at 400°F for about 10 minutes, or until the toppings are cooked and the cheese has browned.

Frequently asked questions