Rice and Ramen Stir-Fry

Rice and Ramen Stir-Fry

A rice and ramen stir-fry is a dish that exemplifies the fusion of different culinary traditions, reflecting both historical and cultural significance. This simple yet flavorful mean combines the staple foods of rice and noodles, which have deep roots in Asian cuisine. In the food industry, instant ramen and rice are valued for their long shelf life and ease of preparation, making them commonly used in various ready-to-eat meals. The versatility of these ingredients allows for endless culinary creativity, making them staples in both home kitchens and commercial food production. Stir fry is a simple meal to make with a variety of ways it could be made. It’s a quick meal to make, and “you can essentially use up anything and everything in your fridge- making it cheap and budget friendly [1].” Understanding the origins and evolution of these ingredients provides a deeper context for appreciating this dish.

Instant noodles
Instant Noodles

Ramen, originally a Chinese dish, was introduced to Japan in the late 19th century. It gained popularity in Japan, particularly after World War II, when the worst rice harvest in decades caused widespread hunger. Fearing about food shortages, the “renewed availability of wheat noodles refueled the demand for ramen, which became a street food as stalls popped up to sell the tasty and affordable dish to the hungry population [2].” Tokyo remains the biggest seller of ramen, named the “ramen capital of the world,” with well over 10,000 ramen shops.

Instant White Rice
Instant White Rice

Rice, on the other hand, has been a fundamental part of Asian diets for thousands of years. It is not only a primary food source, but also holds cultural and symbolic significance in many Asian societies. Minute rice was invented in 1994 by a unique process of “partially cooking and drying rice while preserving its natural nutrients and flavor [3].” It made rice much more convenient to incorporate into everyday meals. Minute rice retains the same nutritional values as what traditional rice has, making it a healthy and quick alternative.

Ingredients

This recipe feeds up to 4 people.
  • 1 pack instant ramen noodles
  • 1 pack instant rice
  • 1 can mixed vegetables
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder

Utensils

  • Large Pan
  • Large Mixing Spoon
  • Bowl
  • Measuring Cups
  • Can Opener

Steps

If you need help learning how to stir-fry, this video explains how!

  1. Cook instant rice in the microwave according to package instructions.
  2. Cook ramen noodles in the microwave (without seasoning packet) and drain.
  3. In a large pan, combine cooked rice, ramen noodles, mixed vegetables, and diced tomatoes.
  4. Stir in soy sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper.
  5. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Serve hot and enjoy!

Add meat if able to, chicken works best! A stir-fry is a super simple warm meal to cook that can be modified in many ways. You can eat it readily made, or put it in the fridge to serve later.

Works Cited

[1]          C. Rhee, “Quick Ramen Noodle Stir Fry Recipe,” Damn Delicious, Apr. 25, 2019. https://damndelicious.net/2019/04/24/quick-ramen-noodle-stir-fry/ (accessed Oct. 27, 2024).

[2]          L. El Shennawy, “The Interesting—and Delicious—History of Ramen,” Reader’s Digest, Aug. 15, 2023. https://www.rd.com/article/history-of-ramen/ (accessed Oct. 27, 2024).

[3]          R. Bannarasee, “When was Minute Rice invented? – Chef’s Resource,” Chef’s Resource, Apr. 26, 2024. https://www.chefsresource.com/when-was-minute-rice-invented/ (accessed Oct. 27, 2024).