Tantanmen Ramen with Bok Choy (Vegan Recipe)

sesame paste

🥗Healthier: tahini

💰Cheaper: peanut butter

Tahini provides a similar nutty flavor with fewer calories.

ground pork

🥗Healthier: ground turkey

💰Cheaper: ground beef

Ground turkey is leaner while ground beef is often more affordable.

chili oil

🥗Healthier: olive oil with chili flakes

💰Cheaper: hot sauce

Hot sauce can provide similar heat at a lower cost.

ramen noodles

🥗Healthier: whole wheat noodles

💰Cheaper: spaghetti

Spaghetti can substitute in a pinch and is usually cheaper.

Cook ramen noodles according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.

Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat until shimmering.

Add ground pork and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes.

Stir in minced garlic and ginger; cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Add sesame paste, soy sauce, and sugar; mix well to combine.

Pour in broth and bring to a simmer; let cook for 5 minutes to meld flavors.

Add bok choy to the broth and cook until tender, about 2-3 minutes.

In a separate bowl, mix chili oil and sichuan peppercorns for the spicy oil.

Divide cooked ramen noodles into bowls; ladle the broth and pork mixture over the noodles.

Drizzle spicy oil over the top; garnish with sliced green onions.

Serve immediately, allowing diners to mix in the spicy oil to taste.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level:

Dietary