Cuban-Inspired Ramen

Ingredients

While traditional Japanese ramen typically features ingredients like soy sauce, miso, and seaweed, this Cuban-inspired version incorporates Cuban spices, citrus flavors, and local ingredients to infuse the dish with a distinct Cuban flair. We alse have the original recipe for Ramen, so you can check it out.

• 4 cups (940ml) chicken broth 4 cups (940ml) chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, thinly sliced 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 bay leaf 1 bay leaf
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons lime juice 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 2 tablespoons orange juice 2 tablespoons orange juice
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
• 2 packs of ramen noodles 2 packs of ramen noodles
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: sliced avocado, chopped scallions, lime wedges Optional toppings: sliced avocado, chopped scallions, lime wedges

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 40g, 5g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
2. 2.
   Add the ground cumin, dried oregano, paprika, and bay leaf to the pot. Stir well to coat the onions and garlic with the spices.
3. 3.
   Place the chicken breasts in the pot and pour in the chicken broth. Bring the broth to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
4. 4.
   Remove the chicken breasts from the pot and shred them using two forks. Set aside.
5. 5.
   Stir in the lime juice, orange juice, soy sauce, tomato paste, and chopped cilantro into the broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. 6.
   Cook the ramen noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
7. 7.
   To serve, divide the cooked ramen noodles among bowls. Ladle the Cuban-inspired broth over the noodles and top with shredded chicken. Garnish with sliced avocado, chopped scallions, and a squeeze of lime juice, if desired.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Chicken breasts — Ensure the chicken breasts are fully cooked before shredding them. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Ramen noodles — Cook the noodles according to the package instructions, but be careful not to overcook them as they can become mushy.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to the broth.
• Experiment with different toppings such as pickled jalapenos, diced tomatoes, or crispy fried plantains to add extra texture and flavor to your ramen.
• If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the chicken. Add tofu or your favorite vegetables for protein.

Serving advice

Serve the Cuban-inspired ramen hot in individual bowls. Encourage your guests to squeeze fresh lime juice over their ramen just before eating to enhance the flavors.

Presentation advice

Garnish each bowl of ramen with a vibrant sprig of fresh cilantro and a lime wedge on the side. The bright green and citrus accents will add a pop of color to the dish.