CookTheReel

Easiest Ramen Ever

JJoshua WeissmanYouTube30 minutesserves 2
Original video by Joshua Weissman on YouTube10:56

About this recipe

Ramen is having a moment, and this version is all about making it easy without sacrificing flavor. Joshua Weissman shows us how to whip up a delicious shoyu ramen in just 30 minutes, with a focus on simplicity and authenticity.

This recipe features a rich broth made from dashi and chicken stock, topped with seared chicken thighs and fresh ingredients. It's a quick take on a classic dish that feels both comforting and satisfying.

Ingredient notes

  • You can replace dashi with chicken stock if needed, but dashi adds a more authentic flavor.
  • For the chicken, skin-on boneless thighs are preferred for added richness.

Tips from Joshua Weissman’s video

  • To make dashi, steep kombu in water until steamy, then add bonito flakes for flavor. This can be done in under 15 minutes.
  • Sear the shiitake mushrooms before adding the aromatics to build flavor in the broth.
  • When cooking the chicken, sear skin-side down first for a crispy texture, then glaze it for added flavor.

Good to know

How long does it take to make this ramen?
The total time to make this ramen is about 30 minutes.
What can I use instead of dashi?
You can replace dashi with chicken stock for a simpler option.
What type of chicken is recommended for this recipe?
Boneless chicken thighs with skin-on are preferred for this ramen.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe yields 2 servings.

No life story here — the video and the recipe are the whole point. All credit to Joshua Weissman: watch the original on YouTube.

The recipe

Serves 2 servingsTime 30 minutes

Ingredients

Steps

  1. 1

    Make dashi by adding 1 quart of water and 2 squares of kombu to a medium pot. Heat until steamy, then steep for 5 minutes without boiling.

  2. 2

    Remove from heat and add 1.25 cups of bonito flakes. Cover and steep for 8-10 minutes, then strain to obtain dashi.

  3. 3

    Cook dried ramen noodles according to package directions.

  4. 4

    Prepare toppings: soft boil eggs for 6 minutes, then place in an ice bath for 1 minute before peeling. Slice green onions and prepare strips of nori.

  5. 5

    For shoyu ramen, heat a saucepan over medium-high heat and add oil to coat. Sear 4 sliced shiitake mushrooms for 2-3 minutes, then remove.

  6. 6

    Add sliced green onion whites, crushed garlic, and grated ginger to the pan. Sauté until fragrant, about 30-45 seconds.

  7. 7

    Add 6 cups of chicken stock (or a mix of chicken stock and dashi) and 1/4 cup of soy sauce. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-10 minutes. Season with salt and optionally shichimi togarashi.

  8. 8

    For glazed chicken, mix 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of honey, 2 teaspoons of corn syrup, and chopped garlic in a bowl. Sear 4 chicken thighs skin-side down in a hot pan for 3 minutes, then flip and cook for 4-6 minutes until cooked through. Brush with glaze and cook for an additional minute.

  9. 9

    Assemble the ramen: In a large bowl, add cooked noodles, pour over the broth, and top with shiitake mushrooms, half a soft-boiled egg, sliced chicken thighs, green onions, and a drizzle of toasted sesame oil.

Heads up — we had to guess a little:

  • The quantity of water for dashi is inferred based on standard recipes.
  • The quantity of soy sauce for the broth is inferred based on typical ramen recipes.

Credit where it’s due: this recipe was transcribed from Joshua Weissman’s original video on YouTube. Follow them there — it’s their dish.

Are you Joshua Weissman? Claim this page or ask us to take it down. Your call, always.

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