DIY NYE Ramen Bar

by Christina Meyer-Jax MS, RDN, LDN, Tastemaker in Residence

If NYE plans are the snuggled in at home variety and health goals a top priority for 2022, this might be the perfect time to set up a build your own ramen bar!  But wait isn’t ramen unhealthy? It doesn’t have to be if it’s not the ultra-processed variety found at convenience stores.  

This set-up below is high on health, flavor, and customization which will allow time for you as the host to also be free to mingle and celebrate while your guests are cooking up their creations.

Give it a try for NYE or any other fun gathering in 2022! Wishing you a year of health creation ahead…one bite and good lifestyle choice at a time.

Ramen Broth

(serves 6-8, multiply as needed)

Ingredients

  • 1 inch fresh ginger root

  • 3 cloves garlic, peeled

  • 8 cups mushroom or vegetable broth

  • 4 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce or tamari (for gluten free)

  • 1 tablespoon mirin (sweet cooking rice wine)

  • 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar

  • 2 teaspoons sesame oil

  • 3-4 scoops of unflavored collagen peptides (optional, but would add extra protein)

  • 3 three-ounce packages of dried ramen noodles (no seasoning, just the noodles) or Lotus Foods Rice Ramen Noodles for Gluten Free

Instructions

  1. Chop the ginger root and garlic cloves into tiny pieces or use a food processor

  2. Transfer the ginger and garlic to the bowl of a Slow Cooker and add the broth, soy sauce, mirin, vinegar, and sesame oil. Set the heat to medium and let simmer for up to eight hours, at least 2 hours at minimum.

  3. Add the dried ramen noodles to the broth and let it cook for the length of the time listed on the package. Switch the 6-Quart Slow Cooker to the “Keep Warm” setting and serve with your choice of toppings.

Topping Selections for the Bar:

  • Protein: sliced pork tenderloin, soft boiled eggs, sliced roast beef, pan-fried cubed tofu

  • Vegetables: shiitake mushrooms, sliced scallions, shredded carrots, shredded purple cabbage, sautéed pea pods, bamboo shoots

  • Seasonings: red pepper flakes, thinly sliced jalapeno, Everything but the Bagel spice blend

Food & Drink, EntréesChristina Meyer-JaxChristina Meyer-Jax, Christina Meyer-Jax MS RDN LDN, #DIYNYERamenBar, #NYEveRecipes, #recipetipsComment