Welcome to an exquisite culinary journey where the bold flavors of Mexico meet the comforting warmth of Japanese ramen. This Mexican Ramen Fiesta Soup is a mouthwatering fusion that marries the zest of a Mexican "little soup" with the rich complexity of ramen broth. Though authentic ramen can be a day's endeavor, this delicious hybrid concoction from No Way José Cuisine can be made in a fraction of the time without compromising on taste. Perfect for those who love experimenting with global flavors, this dish is sure to become a fast favorite in your home.
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 jalapeño, deseeded and finely chopped (optional for heat)
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 200g (7oz) protein of choice (chicken, pork, tofu, etc.)
- 1 pack of ramen noodles
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Avocado slices (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Equipment: Large pot, knife, cutting board
Servings: 4
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, diced onion, and chopped jalapeño (if using). Sauté until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
2. Stir in the diced tomatoes, cumin, and coriander powder. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spices are well combined with the vegetables.
3. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, add the bay leaf, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
4. Once boiling, add your chosen protein. If using chicken or pork, ensure it's diced or sliced into bite-sized pieces. Simmer until the protein is fully cooked—about 20 minutes for chicken or pork.
5. Meanwhile, in a separate pot, cook the ramen noodles according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
6. When the protein is cooked, adjust the seasonings of the broth with salt, pepper, and lime juice to taste.
7. Remove the bay leaf and discard. Next, add the cooked ramen noodles to the pot and stir to combine.
8. Serve the soup hot, garnished with chopped cilantro, avocado slices, and additional lime wedges on the side.
Cooking Tips:
- For a vegetarian version, use tofu as your protein and ensure your broth is vegetable-based.
- Customize the level of heat by adjusting the amount of jalapeño or omitting it altogether.
Remember to explore the full expression of this flavorful fusion on No Way José Cuisine's YouTube channel, and don't forget to subscribe for more delectable dishes: https://www.youtube.com/@NoWayJoseCuisine.
Enjoy your Mexican Ramen Fiesta Soup—remember that in the kitchen, as in life, we should taste, have fun, and learn from our mistakes!