Southern Shrimp Ramen Recipe

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons grapeseed oil
• 1/2 yellow onion, chopped
• 1 carrot, cut into matchsticks
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh ginger
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh lemongrass or lemongrass powder
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh garlic
• 4 to 6 fresh collard green leaves, chopped
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1/3 cup soy sauce
• 1/3 cup fish sauce
• 2 packages ramen, seasoning packet discarded
• 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Directions

1. Heat the grapeseed oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, matchstick carrots, fresh ginger, lemongrass, and garlic. Saut for 3 to 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
2. Stir in the chopped collard greens and continue sauting for another 3 to 5 minutes until the greens start to wilt.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth, followed by the soy sauce and fish sauce. Stir well and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Let it cook for 10 to 12 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Once the broth is simmering, add the ramen noodles. Cook for 3 minutes until the noodles are just tender.
5. Remove the Dutch oven from the heat and add the raw shrimp and sliced mushrooms. Cover the pot and let the heat from the broth cook the shrimp until they turn pink and opaque, about 5 to 7 minutes.
6. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir to combine, and your dish is ready to serve!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 459
• Total Fat: 17g (22% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 5g (23% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 143mg (48% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 5596mg (243% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 49g (18% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 11g (38% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 30g (60% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 39mg (43% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 380mg (29% Daily Value)
• Iron: 5mg (27% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 782mg (17% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is based on available data and may vary for specific ingredients.

Origin: The Southern Shrimp Ramen is a unique fusion dish that brings together the rich culinary traditions of the American South with the bold flavors of traditional Japanese ramen. This dish features shrimp, a Southern staple, alongside ingredients like collard greens and lemongrass, commonly found in Southeast Asian cuisine. The recipe takes inspiration from the vibrant flavors of Southern cooking, while giving a nod to Asian influences, creating a truly unexpected but delightful fusion of cultures.

Regional Features

The Southern Shrimp Ramen combines the flavors and ingredients typical of Southern U.S. cuisine, such as collard greens, which are a classic side dish in Southern meals. Collard greens are often served with smoked meats and are integral to Southern food culture. The ramen, however, introduces an Asian twist, and this fusion highlights the region's openness to incorporating international influences while keeping the traditional Southern elements intact. The rich, hearty broth, seasoned with soy and fish sauces, complements the more delicate flavors of shrimp and vegetables.

What Sets It Apart

While ramen is widely known for its Japanese origins, the Southern Shrimp Ramen stands apart due to its use of distinctly Southern ingredients. Traditional ramen usually features vegetables like bok choy or spinach, but this recipe uses collard greens to infuse the broth with a unique earthy flavor. Moreover, the use of ginger, lemongrass, and fish sauce gives it a Southeast Asian twist, while shrimp adds a Southern seafood touch, making it a true fusion dish. This combination of Southern and Asian ingredients sets this ramen apart from its more traditional counterparts.

Where Its Typically Served

Southern Shrimp Ramen can be found in various dining settings, from casual Southern eateries to trendy fusion restaurants. It is a popular choice for a comforting yet unique meal, often served as a hearty lunch or dinner. The dish has also gained popularity in the fusion food scene, where chefs experiment with different regional ingredients to create something new. It might be served in restaurants specializing in Southern comfort food with an international flair, or in places that focus on ramen with a twist.

Interesting Facts

• The use of collard greens in Southern Shrimp Ramen is a nod to traditional Southern cooking, where greens are often cooked with ham or bacon for added flavor.
• Ramen itself, originating in Japan, has evolved into a global dish with countless regional variations. The Southern Shrimp Ramen is just one example of how ramen can transcend cultural boundaries and incorporate local ingredients.
• The shrimp used in this recipe are a staple in Southern cooking, particularly along the Gulf Coast, where shrimp are caught fresh and often featured in a variety of dishes like shrimp and grits or shrimp po'boys.
• Combining Asian ingredients like lemongrass and fish sauce with Southern classics shows how cuisine is constantly evolving, embracing both heritage and innovation.

Conclusion

Southern Shrimp Ramen is more than just a delicious fusion dishit's a celebration of both Southern and Asian culinary traditions. The marriage of bold flavors from different cultures creates a rich and satisfying meal that has the potential to become a favorite in homes and restaurants alike. Whether you're a fan of Southern food, ramen, or both, this dish offers a unique experience that is sure to please a variety of palates.

FAQ about Southern Shrimp Ramen Recipe