Before diving into the wonderful world of miso chicken katsu ramen, let’s talk about what pairs beautifully with this delicious dish. The satisfying crunch of a light Asian-style coleslaw can complement the ramen’s soft noodles and crispy chicken perfectly.
Consider something simple with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a tangy sesame dressing. You could also serve it with a refreshing cucumber salad; the coolness of the cucumbers offsets the warmth of the ramen. Some lightly pickled sushi ginger could add a nice palate cleanser, too.
If you’re aiming for a beverage, why not grab a chilled glass of Japanese iced tea? Or, if you want to keep it festive, a light sake might do the trick! Now, let’s get into this flavorful dish.
What is Miso Chicken Katsu Ramen?
Miso chicken katsu ramen is a pasta dish that takes traditional ramen – wheat noodles served in a flavored broth – and elevates it with a crispy chicken cutlet. It’s an amalgamation of textures and flavors that comes together beautifully.
You have soft noodles swimming in a savory miso broth, topped with that crunchy chicken katsu. The dish is often garnished with fresh ingredients, adding a bite of freshness that pops with each mouthful.
Miso, a fermented soybean paste, provides a rich, umami flavor that is the backbone of this dish. Combined with the added creaminess from coconut milk, the broth becomes an enticing contrast to the complete meal.
What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?
Describing the flavor profile of miso chicken katsu ramen is like painting a culinary masterpiece. First, there’s the deep umami from the miso. It’s earthy but balanced, inviting you in for another taste. The chicken katsu adds a rich, savory crunch that contrasts against the soft noodles.
But it doesn’t stop there, because the broth also carries a hint of sweetness from the coconut milk, paired with a peppery warmth from the ginger and garlic. Each bite bursts with layers of flavor. The addition of vegetables like bok choy and shiitake mushrooms add freshness, while also contributing to the broth’s body and depth.
Why You’ll Love This?
This dish is a crowd-pleaser and is surprisingly easy to prepare. The intricate flavors may lead you to believe it’s complicated, but I promise you can whip it together in less time than a takeout run.
Perfect for a cozy night in, it’s excellent for sharing with guests. The landing point of comfort food and gourmet dining embraces everything we love about home cooking. Plus, it makes great use of pantry staples while also allowing you to play with fresh produce based on what’s in season.
Ingredients
To kick off this culinary adventure, let’s gather what you need. Here’s a breakdown of the key components:
Broth & Noodles
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken stock (see note 1)
- 1 (14 oz) can full-fat coconut milk
- ¼ cup white or yellow miso paste
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free option)
- 2 teaspoons rice vinegar (adds subtle tang to balance sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 1½ tablespoons neutral oil (such as vegetable or grapeseed)
- 1 large shallot, thinly sliced (or substitute with a small yellow onion)
- 3 to 4 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped lemongrass (optional but recommended for fragrance)
- 1 cup julienned carrots
- 1 cup shiitake mushrooms, thinly sliced
- 4–5 baby bok choy, halved lengthwise
- 3 blocks of ramen noodles (discard the seasoning packets)
Crispy Chicken Katsu
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, halved horizontally and pounded to about ½-inch thickness
- ½ cup all-purpose flour, for dredging
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 cups Japanese panko breadcrumbs
Garnishes & Toppings
- Thinly sliced scallions (green onions)
- Red chili oil (store-bought or homemade for extra heat and depth)
- Ramen eggs or soft-boiled mayak eggs, halved
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now let’s cook! Follow these simple steps to make your own delicious bowl of miso chicken katsu ramen.
Step 1: Prepare the Broth
Start by combining the chicken stock, coconut milk, miso paste, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and toasted sesame oil in a large pot. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Reduce the heat if needed to keep it at a light simmer. Stir occasionally to ensure that the miso dissolves completely, creating a harmonious broth.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a separate pan, heat the neutral oil over medium heat. Add the sliced shallot, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté until fragrant, roughly 3-4 minutes. If you have lemongrass, add it now. This step might just make your kitchen smell heavenly.
Step 3: Add Vegetables
To the aromatics, toss in the julienned carrots and shiitake mushrooms. Sauté them for another 5 minutes until they soften slightly. Then, add the halved baby bok choy to the pot. Cook for a few more minutes until the bok choy wilts, then transfer everything to the broth.
Step 4: Cook the Noodles
Next, in another pot, cook the ramen noodles according to the package instructions. Be sure to avoid using the seasoning packets. This is broth-based ramen, after all! Drain and set aside.
Step 5: Prepare the Chicken Katsu
While the noodles are cooking, it’s time for the chicken. Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and the last for panko breadcrumbs. Dredge the chicken in flour, dip into the egg, and finally coat it in panko.
In a large skillet, heat oil for frying. Once hot, add the breaded chicken and cook each side until golden brown and crispy – about 4-5 minutes per side. When done, let it cool slightly and slice it into strips.
Step 6: Assemble the Dish
In a bowl, add a portion of the cooked ramen noodles. Pour the warm miso broth with vegetables over the noodles. Top with crispy chicken katsu slices and garnish with sliced scallions and a drizzle of red chili oil for an extra kick. If you want to take it to the next level, adding a ramen egg can add another dimension!
Tips & Tricks
Here are some handy tips to elevate your miso chicken katsu ramen:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables make a big difference. Don’t skip out on the bok choy or mushrooms; they add tons of flavor and texture.
- Quality Broth: Using a good-quality chicken stock enhances the flavor significantly. Low-sodium allows you better control of saltiness.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the broth in advance. Just heat it while you make the katsu and noodles for a quicker meal.
- Customize Your Toppings: Don’t hesitate to get creative with toppings. Sliced radishes, sesame seeds, or even seaweed can bring an exciting twist.
- Experiment with Proteins: Feel free to substitute the chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option. Or try using shrimp for a seafood twist.
How Can You Store This Miso Chicken Katsu Ramen?
If you find yourself with leftovers—lucky you! Here’s how to store it:
- Place the broth in an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Store the chicken separately to maintain its crispiness and the noodles can be stored in a different container.
- Freeze portions if you want to store them long term. Broths store well and can be reheated.
Ingredient Alternatives
If you find yourself short on ingredients, don’t fret. Here are some solid alternatives:
- Chicken: If chicken is not available, tofu can work well as a plant-based substitute. Just press and fry it for that crispy texture.
- Miso Paste: You can also use soy sauce mixed with a little peanut butter for a different yet tasty depth, although not as authentic.
- Ramen Noodles: If ramen is not in your pantry, udon noodles or even soba noodles can serve as a great alternative.
Conclusion
Miso chicken katsu ramen is not just another noodle dish; it’s an experience. This culinary journey takes that warm, comforting bowl and turns it into a symphony of flavors and textures. Making this dish does not only satisfy your hunger; it invites a slice of culture right into your kitchen.
Every bowl offers nourishing warmth and the satisfaction of a home-cooked meal. So why not take a deep breath, roll up your sleeves, and get cooking? You’ll be rewarded with a delicious dish that you and your family will love. Happy cooking!
You’ll also like the following recipes!
- Single Lady’s 5-Minute Gooey Molten Chocolate Mug Cake
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- Butternut Squash Butter Chicken Recipe
Miso Chicken Katsu Ramen Recipe – Hearty Food Ideas
Description
If you’ve ever had ramen, you know it can take you to a place of sheer comfort. Now, imagine that experience combined with the crispy goodness of chicken katsu and the depth of miso flavors. Miso chicken katsu ramen is delivered on that front and then some. This dish doesn’t just fill you up; it fills your soul.
I was first introduced to the beauty of miso chicken katsu ramen at a small café tucked away in a bustling neighborhood in Tokyo. As I watched the chef expertly fry the chicken and simmer the broth, I felt an urge to recreate this magic.
The first time I tried it at home, it was a revelation. The warmth of the broth, the crunch of the chicken, and the heartiness of the noodles combined in a way that made me fall in love with cooking all over again.
Ingredients
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Broth
-
Start by combining the chicken stock, coconut milk, miso paste, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and toasted sesame oil in a large pot. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Reduce the heat if needed to keep it at a light simmer. Stir occasionally to ensure that the miso dissolves completely, creating a harmonious broth.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
-
In a separate pan, heat the neutral oil over medium heat. Add the sliced shallot, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté until fragrant, roughly 3-4 minutes. If you have lemongrass, add it now. This step might just make your kitchen smell heavenly.
Step 3: Add Vegetables
-
To the aromatics, toss in the julienned carrots and shiitake mushrooms. Sauté them for another 5 minutes until they soften slightly. Then, add the halved baby bok choy to the pot. Cook for a few more minutes until the bok choy wilts, then transfer everything to the broth.
Step 4: Cook the Noodles
-
Next, in another pot, cook the ramen noodles according to the package instructions. Be sure to avoid using the seasoning packets. This is broth-based ramen, after all! Drain and set aside.
Step 5: Prepare the Chicken Katsu
-
While the noodles are cooking, it's time for the chicken. Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and the last for panko breadcrumbs. Dredge the chicken in flour, dip into the egg, and finally coat it in panko.
In a large skillet, heat oil for frying. Once hot, add the breaded chicken and cook each side until golden brown and crispy – about 4-5 minutes per side. When done, let it cool slightly and slice it into strips.
Step 6: Assemble the Dish
-
In a bowl, add a portion of the cooked ramen noodles. Pour the warm miso broth with vegetables over the noodles. Top with crispy chicken katsu slices and garnish with sliced scallions and a drizzle of red chili oil for an extra kick. If you want to take it to the next level, adding a ramen egg can add another dimension!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 690kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 42.1g65%
- Saturated Fat 26g130%
- Cholesterol 256mg86%
- Sodium 1184mg50%
- Total Carbohydrate 59g20%
- Dietary Fiber 5g20%
- Sugars 9g
- Protein 25g50%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables make a big difference. Don’t skip out on the bok choy or mushrooms; they add tons of flavor and texture.
- Quality Broth: Using a good-quality chicken stock enhances the flavor significantly. Low-sodium allows you better control of saltiness.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the broth in advance. Just heat it while you make the katsu and noodles for a quicker meal.
- Customize Your Toppings: Don’t hesitate to get creative with toppings. Sliced radishes, sesame seeds, or even seaweed can bring an exciting twist.
- Experiment with Proteins: Feel free to substitute the chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option. Or try using shrimp for a seafood twist.
