After a long day of work, sometimes all you crave is a cozy dish that warms your heart and satisfies your appetite, like a steaming bowl of Easy Spam Ramen with Egg. Imagine the satisfying crunch of crispy Spam mingling with the fragrant aromas of garlic and sesame oil, drawing you in with its delicious simplicity. This dish is not just quick to prepare; it’s also incredibly budget-friendly, making it the perfect weeknight hero.
As I whipped this up one evening, I realized how effortlessly it brought comfort to the table, combining al dente noodles and silky soft-boiled eggs—all folded into a creamy broth that feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re a busy professional or simply tired of fast food, this delightful recipe promises to liven up your dinner routine with minimal effort. Get ready to dig into a bowl of nostalgia and flavor!
Why is Easy Spam Ramen with Egg a Must-Try?
Comforting and Quick: This dish comes together in just 15 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when time is tight.
Budget-Friendly: With affordable ingredients like Spam and instant noodles, it’s easy on the wallet without sacrificing taste.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of savory Spam, fragrant garlic, and rich sesame oil creates a mouthwatering experience that will have your taste buds dancing.
Versatile: Feel free to swap in chicken, turkey, or tofu for a different flair, or toss in some fresh veggies for added nutrition.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or cooking for your family, this dish is sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
Easy Spam Ramen with Egg Ingredients
For the Ramen
- Eggs – Provides protein and luscious texture; substitute with tofu for a vegan option.
- Spam (340g) – Adds savory, umami flavor through frying; can be replaced with chicken or turkey for lower fat.
- Shin Ramyun Noodles (2 packets, seasonings removed) – The primary carbohydrate base, offering chewiness; use any instant ramen as a substitute.
- Milk (100 ml) – Adds creaminess to the broth; plant-based milk works for a dairy-free version.
For the Flavor Base
- Vegetable Oil (1 tablespoon) – For frying the Spam and ensuring crispiness; any neutral oil like canola works.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor; use garlic powder as a substitute if necessary.
- Sesame Oil (1 tablespoon) – Adds a rich, nutty taste that enhances the overall dish; can swap for olive oil for a milder flavor.
- Oyster Sauce (2 tablespoons) – Provides depth of flavor and sweetness; use soy sauce for a vegetarian alternative.
- Gochugaru Flakes (1 tablespoon or ½ tablespoon chili flakes) – Introduces mild heat and color; swap with regular chili flakes or paprika for less heat.
- Sugar (1 teaspoon) – Balances the savory and spicy notes; optional if you prefer no sweetness.
For Garnish
- Sesame Seeds – Adds texture and visual appeal; can omit if unavailable.
- Spring Onions (finely chopped) – Fresh element for garnish; adds crunch and flavor; use chives as an alternative.
This Easy Spam Ramen with Egg is not only a delightful treat but also super simple to prepare!
How to Make Easy Spam Ramen with Egg
- Heat the Oil: In a frying pan, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. This will allow the Spam to crisp beautifully, enhancing the overall dish.
- Sauté the Spam: Add cubed Spam to the pan and sauté until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. This step brings out the savory umami flavor that makes this ramen unforgettable.
- Add Aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic, sesame oil, oyster sauce, gochugaru, and sugar. Mix well and lower the heat to let those flavors combine and deepen.
- Cook the Noodles and Eggs: Meanwhile, prepare the noodles according to package instructions. In the last 6 minutes of cooking, add the eggs to boil. Afterward, cool them under cold water for easy peeling.
- Combine Ingredients: Once drained, mix the cooked noodles with the Spam mixture in the pan. Add in the milk and stir for an additional minute until everything is well combined and creamy.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve your ramen hot, topped with soft-boiled eggs, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, and a handful of chopped spring onions for added freshness.
Optional: Add a dash of soy sauce for extra flavor before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best Easy Spam Ramen
- Crispy Spam: Make sure your Spam is browned well; this brings out the deep savory flavor that elevates the entire dish.
- Perfect Soft-Boiled Eggs: Avoid overcooking your eggs; a precise boil time of 6 minutes will yield a beautifully soft center.
- Adjusting Heat: Feel free to tweak the amount of gochugaru according to your spice preference; always start small and add more gradually.
- Creamy Consistency: When adding milk, stir continuously for about a minute to achieve a silky broth that coats the noodles beautifully.
- Fresh Garnishes: Don’t skip the spring onions and sesame seeds; they add a burst of flavor and texture that makes your Easy Spam Ramen truly shine!
Easy Spam Ramen with Egg Variations
Feel free to take this comforting dish and make it your own with these exciting swaps and modifications!
- Protein Swap: Replace Spam with diced chicken or tofu for a leaner option that still packs flavor.
- Vegetable Boost: Add fresh veggies like bok choy, spinach, or mushrooms for a vibrant and nutritious twist.
- Noodle Change: Use udon noodles instead of ramen for a chewier texture that complements the broth elegantly.
- Creamy Upgrade: Stir in a dollop of cream cheese or miso paste for an extra layer of richness and depth. A small amount goes a long way in enhancing the flavor!
- Spicy Kick: For heat lovers, add sliced jalapeños or a dash of sriracha to your broth for a fiery finish.
- Herb Infusion: Sprinkle fresh cilantro or basil on top before serving to add a fragrant, herbal note to the dish.
- Nutty Flavor: Toasted peanuts or cashews can be incorporated as a crunchy garnish for added texture and richness.
- Sweet Twist: Experiment with a hint of hoisin sauce for a sweet and savory depth that beautifully complements the salty elements.
Storage Tips for Easy Spam Ramen with Egg
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. This helps maintain freshness while preventing odors from seeping in.
Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the ramen without the eggs for up to 1 month. Just ensure to cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Reheating: To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to keep the noodles moist. Microwave until hot, stirring occasionally to heat evenly. Don’t forget to re-add the soft-boiled egg after reheating for the best experience!
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Spam Ramen with Egg are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can sauté the Spam and prepare the flavor base (garlic, sesame oil, and sauces) up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerating it in an airtight container to maintain quality. Additionally, cook the noodles and boil the eggs, then cool and refrigerate them separately until ready to combine. When it’s time for dinner, simply reheat the Spam mixture in a pan, add the noodles, and stir in the milk until creamy. Top with the eggs and garnish for restaurant-quality results with minimal effort—and no rushing needed!
What to Serve with Easy Spam Ramen with Egg?
When you whip up this comforting bowl of ramen, you’ll want to complement it with sides that brighten and elevate the meal experience.
- Pickled Vegetables: The tangy crunch of pickled vegetables offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy ramen, enhancing each bite.
- Asian Slaw: A light and crisp slaw dressed with sesame dressing adds a delightful crunch and a burst of fresh flavors.
- Steamed Edamame: These tender soybeans are a healthy and fun finger food that adds a pop of color and a satisfying texture to your meal.
- Miso Soup: A warm, savory miso soup is a classic pairing that highlights umami flavors and warms the soul, perfectly complementing the ramen.
- Sushi Rolls: Add some variety to your dinner with sushi rolls filled with fresh vegetables or shrimp, enriching the dining experience with vibrant flavors.
- Cold Sake: A chilled glass of sake can enhance your meal with its smooth taste, creating an authentic dining atmosphere reminiscent of Japan.
- Fruit Salad: A light, fresh fruit salad brings a sweet balance to the savory dish, offering a refreshing end to the meal.
- Green Tea: Always a lovely accompaniment, a warm cup of green tea rejuvenates the senses and promotes a comforting dining vibe.
Easy Spam Ramen with Egg Recipe FAQs
What type of Spam should I use for my ramen?
Absolutely, using classic Spam is perfect for this dish as it brings that signature savory flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, Hormel also offers a lower-fat Spam, or you can use turkey Spam. Both will yield a delightful taste without compromising the original comfort food experience.
How long can I store leftovers of Easy Spam Ramen with Egg?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just be sure to let everything cool completely before sealing it up to maintain freshness. If you’re reheating, adding a splash of water can help revive the dish’s creaminess.
Can I freeze Easy Spam Ramen with Egg?
Yes, you can freeze the ramen, but it’s best to do so without the eggs. Cool the dish completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will last for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to eat, simply defrost in the fridge overnight and reheat using a splash of broth or water for moisture!
What should I do if my poem noodles are overcooked?
If your noodles end up a little mushy, don’t worry! You can try to salvage them by adding them to a hot pan with a touch of oil and stir-fry for a few minutes. This will give them a little crunch back, and pairing them with the crispy Spam and the rest of the dish will help mask any mishap.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Great question! If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, you can easily adapt this recipe. For a gluten-free option, simply use gluten-free ramen. If a vegan version is desired, I recommend swapping Spam for tofu and the egg for a tofu scramble or a vegan egg substitute. The flavors from the soy sauce and sesame oil will still make it a delicious meal!
Delicious Easy Spam Ramen with Egg in Just 15 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat the Oil: In a frying pan, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Sauté the Spam: Add cubed Spam and sauté until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Aromatics: Stir in minced garlic, sesame oil, oyster sauce, gochugaru, and sugar. Mix well and lower the heat.
- Cook the Noodles and Eggs: Prepare noodles according to package instructions, adding eggs to boil for the last 6 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Mix cooked noodles with Spam mixture, add milk, stirring for an additional minute.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve hot, topped with soft-boiled eggs, sesame seeds, and chopped spring onions.
