Ramen soup - vegan version

Vegan Ramen Soup: A Comforting Delight

The culinary journey we will embark on together today will lead us to a vegan ramen soup, a recipe that is not only delicious but also easy to prepare and perfect for days when we want to enjoy a comforting meal. Ramen is a dish with deep roots in culinary tradition, and today I will share with you an adapted version to fit a vegan and fasting lifestyle. This soup is an excellent choice for fasting days, but also for anyone looking to add a splash of flavor to their plate.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 100 g chow mein noodles
- 1.5 liters water
- ½ chili pepper (optional, if you prefer spicy)
- 1 small piece of ginger
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 200 g champignon mushrooms
- 2 green onions
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free option)
- 1 carrot
- 1 tablespoon Chinese spice mix (a blend of spices with Asian flavors)
- 1 vegetable "chicken" cube (optional, for a richer taste)
- Oil for frying

Preparing Vegan Ramen Soup

1. Preparing the soup base: Start by preparing a fragrant mix. In a pan or pot, add a splash of oil and add the grated ginger, minced garlic, and chili pepper (if using). Sauté these ingredients for 30 seconds until they become tender and the aromas begin to release. These flavors will form the base of your soup, so don't skip this step!

2. Adding the liquid: After sautéing the ingredients, add 1.5 liters of water and the vegetable "chicken" cube (if you choose to use it). Bring the soup to a boil.

3. Blending the soup: Once the water has started to boil, use a blender to blend the soup. This step will transform the soup into a creamy base, rich in flavors. It’s a simple trick, but essential for achieving a pleasant texture.

4. Cooking the noodles: Add the chow mein noodles to the soup according to the package instructions (usually around 10 minutes). Make sure to stir them occasionally to prevent sticking.

5. Preparing the added ingredients: While the noodles are cooking, in another pan, heat a bit of oil and add the sliced mushrooms. Season with the Chinese spice mix and fry until they become golden and delicious. These mushrooms will add a pleasant texture and intense flavor to your soup.

6. Preparing the vegetables: Cut the carrot into julienne strips and the green onion into thin slices. These vegetables will add a contrast of color and texture, as well as a boost of nutrients.

7. Plating: Once the noodles are ready, remove them from the soup and place them in a deep bowl. Top with the fried mushrooms, julienne carrots, and green onions. Using a ladle, pour the hot soup over all the ingredients in the bowl.

8. Serving: Now that your vegan ramen soup is ready, you can serve it immediately. It’s perfect for enjoying on cool evenings or when you need an energy boost.

Practical tips:
- Mushrooms: You can experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake or portobello, to add a different flavor.
- Noodles: Instead of chow mein noodles, you can use udon or soba noodles for an interesting variation.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as broccoli or bell peppers, according to your preferences.
- Flavor: If you like a stronger taste, add a few drops of chili sauce or a teaspoon of miso paste.

Nutritional benefits:
This vegan ramen soup is not only delicious but also healthy. It is rich in fiber due to the vegetables and mushrooms, and the soy sauce provides plant-based protein. Additionally, ginger and garlic are known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Calories per serving: Approximately 220 kcal, depending on the ingredients used.

Delicious combinations:
This soup pairs perfectly with a crunchy cabbage salad or a platter of fresh vegetables. For a drink, you can opt for green tea or a fruit smoothie to complete the meal.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I add tofu? Absolutely! Fried or smoked tofu will add extra texture and enrich the nutritional profile of the soup.
- How can I store the soup? You can store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. The noodles can be added fresh at serving to avoid them becoming soggy.
- Is this recipe suitable for vegans? Yes, all ingredients are vegan and do not contain animal products.

I hope you enjoy every bite of this vegan ramen soup! It’s a simple yet flavorful recipe that will surely become a favorite in your kitchen!