30-Minute Caramelized Shallot Beef Ramen
Beef ramen: cook this ultimate caramelized shallot beef ramen in just 30 minutes. A truly delicious and satisfying weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil, or extra virgin olive oil
- 4 shallots, thinly sliced
- 1 pound ground beef, chicken, or pork
- 4 cloves garlic, minced or grated
- 1 inch fresh ginger, grated
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup low sodium soy sauce or tamari
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce (optional)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon chili paste
- 8 ounces ramen noodles
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup chopped peanuts or sesame seeds
- 1/4 cup shredded carrots
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 fresh lime, cut into wedges
Instructions
- Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil shimmers, add the shallots and cook until they begin to caramelize, about 5 minutes. Stir in the beef, garlic, ginger, cinnamon (if using), and pepper. Brown all over, breaking the beef up as it cooks, about 5 minutes.
- Pour in the soy sauce, vinegar, fish sauce, honey, and chili paste. Bring the sauce to a boil over medium-high heat and cook until the sauce coats the beef, about 5-8 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook the ramen noodles. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Boil the ramen according to package directions, until al dente. Before draining, scoop out about 1/2 cup of the cooking water, then drain the noodles.
- Add the noodles and 1/4 cup of the reserved water to the beef mixture. Add the butter and basil, tossing to combine thoroughly.
- Divide the noodles between plates. Top with peanuts (or sesame seeds), carrots, green onions, and fresh limes. Enjoy immediately!
Notes
- Don't rush the shallots: Allow them to properly caramelize until golden brown and sweet. This process is key to the depth of flavor in your beef ramen.
- Internal temperature for beef: Ensure your ground beef reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for food safety.
- Storage and reheating: Leftover beef ramen can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to loosen the noodles and sauce. Nutrition information is an estimate, calculated automatically. Values vary with brands, substitutions and portion sizes.
- Internal temperature for beef: Ensure your ground beef reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for food safety.
- Storage and reheating: Leftover beef ramen can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to loosen the noodles and sauce. Nutrition information is an estimate, calculated automatically. Values vary with brands, substitutions and portion sizes.