Description
This Spicy Shrimp Ramen Soup is a quick and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With tender shrimp, crisp vegetables, and a rich, spicy broth, this Asian-inspired noodle soup brings bold flavors straight to your table in just 45 minutes. Packed with a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and umami, it’s a hearty and satisfying meal full of fresh ingredients like napa cabbage, red bell pepper, and shrimp. Whether you want to customize the heat or make it vegetarian, this recipe is both versatile and delicious.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
3 packages ramen noodles (3 ounces each)
¾ lb shrimp (jumbo or extra-large), peeled and deveined
3 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
1 medium shallot, chopped
1 medium head napa cabbage, thinly sliced
½ red bell pepper, cored, seeded, and cut into thin strips
2 teaspoons fresh ginger, grated
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon sriracha (or more to taste)
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
5 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
5 scallions, chopped
⅓ cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Prepare the noodles: Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the shrimp: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp from the pot and set them aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: In the same pot, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Sauté the chopped shallot, napa cabbage, and red bell pepper over medium heat until the vegetables begin to soften, about 4-5 minutes.
- Make the broth: Add the grated ginger and minced garlic to the pot and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another 2 minutes. Add the sriracha, soy sauce, sugar, and lime juice, then pour in the broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-6 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the soup: Add the cooked ramen noodles and shrimp back into the pot. Stir everything together and cook for 1-2 minutes to heat through.
- Garnish and serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with chopped scallions and fresh cilantro. Serve hot.
Notes
- Vegetarian option: Omit shrimp and add tofu or more vegetables like mushrooms, bok choy, or baby corn.
- Spicier broth: Add extra sriracha or a dash of chili oil for a more intense heat.
- Extra protein: Include more shrimp or add chicken breast or pork for a heartier version.
- Noodle alternatives: Use udon, soba, or another favorite noodle if you don’t have ramen.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired, Japanese
