Miso Butter Ramen Noodles Recipe

Cook Time: 5 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed for its original yield. Ingredient amounts adjust automatically, but cooking steps and times remain the same. Not all recipes scale perfectly.

• 2 (3-ounce) packages dry ramen noodles, seasoning packets discarded
• 3 tablespoons white miso paste
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons lower-sodium soy sauce, or more to taste
• 1 tablespoon seasoned rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon chili oil (optional)
• Thinly sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Original recipe yields 3 servings.

Directions

1. Pour 5 cups of water into a pot and bring to a rolling boil.
2. Add the ramen noodles and cook until tender, approximately 2 to 4 minutes.
3. Drain the noodles, reserving a little cooking water in case the sauce needs thinning.
4. Return the drained noodles to the pot.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste, melted butter, soy sauce, and rice vinegar until smooth.
6. Pour the sauce over the hot noodles and stir until fully combined. Add reserved noodle water if the sauce is too thick.
7. Divide the noodles evenly into three bowls.
8. Drizzle each serving with chili oil, then garnish with thinly sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds before serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 402
• Fat: 23g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 2053mg
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Dietary Fiber: 3g
• Total Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 9g
• Vitamin C: 0mg
• Calcium: 27mg
• Iron: 3mg
• Potassium: 178mg

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Individual daily values may vary.

**Nutrient information is based on available data. If you follow a medically restrictive diet, consult your doctor or dietitian before preparing this recipe.

The Story Behind Miso Butter Ramen Noodles

Miso butter ramen noodles are a modern twist on traditional Japanese ramen, combining the savory depth of miso with the creamy richness of butter. Ramen itself has a storied history, originating in Japan in the late 19th century as an adaptation of Chinese wheat noodles. Over time, ramen evolved into countless regional variations, each reflecting local tastes and ingredients. The combination of miso and butter emerged in Hokkaido, Japans northernmost island, where the harsh winters inspired chefs to create hearty, warming noodle soups with rich, comforting flavors.

Regional Nuances

Hokkaido-style miso ramen is particularly famous for its use of butter, often paired with sweet corn and local vegetables. The creamy butter balances the fermented tang of miso, creating a mellow, satisfying broth that stands out from other Japanese noodle dishes. In other regions, ramen might favor soy sauce (shoyu) or salt (shio) bases, but the Hokkaido miso-butter style emphasizes indulgence and warmth, making it ideal for colder climates.

How It Differs From Similar Dishes

Unlike traditional shoyu or shio ramen, which rely on lighter broths, miso butter ramen noodles are richer and more flavorful. The miso provides umami depth, while the butter adds creaminess and a slightly sweet note. Compared to other creamy noodle dishes, such as tonkotsu ramen with pork bone broth, miso butter ramen is vegetarian-friendly if no meat is added, and its flavor profile is more nuanced rather than overwhelmingly fatty.

Typical Serving Context

Miso butter ramen noodles are often served in casual ramen shops, izakayas (Japanese pubs), and at home as a quick yet luxurious meal. It can be enjoyed as a standalone dish or with toppings like green onions, sesame seeds, corn, mushrooms, or slices of pork or chicken. Its versatility makes it popular for both lunch and dinner, offering comfort food appeal with minimal preparation time.

Interesting Facts

Butter and miso might seem like an unlikely combination, but it has become a beloved flavor pairing in northern Japan. The dish gained international recognition after Japanese ramen chefs began sharing their recipes online, inspiring home cooks worldwide. Another fun fact: the creamy miso-butter sauce clings beautifully to instant ramen noodles, transforming an inexpensive pantry staple into a gourmet experience in under 10 minutes. Additionally, the dish reflects a broader Japanese culinary philosophy of balancing taste, texture, and aroma, demonstrating how simple ingredients can create an extraordinary flavor sensation.

FAQ about Miso Butter Ramen Noodles Recipe

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