Randy Chandler
Ramen is a versatile dish that can be customised in many ways. One way to elevate your bowl of ramen is by adding cheese. While cheese and ramen might not seem like an obvious combination, it is a tasty and simple way to enhance your meal. Adding cheese to ramen is a straightforward process, but there are some tips and tricks to achieving the perfect bowl of cheesy ramen.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cheese type | Processed American cheese slices, Cheddar, Mozzarella, Parmesan, Cream cheese, Swiss cheese |
| Ramen type | Korean ramen without broth, like Samyang Buldak, Shin Red ramen, Nongshim brand, Shin Ramyun |
| Other ingredients | Cornstarch slurry, Milk, Butter, Soy sauce, Spices, Garlic powder, Green onions, Hot dogs, Salt, Pepper, Potatoes, Corn, Spam, Egg |
| Preparation tips | Do not overcook the noodles, use cold water for cornstarch slurry, add cheese after turning off the heat, grate the cheese, add cheese to hot noodles and broth |
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What You'll Learn
Processed cheese slices vs. fresh shredded cheese
When it comes to ramen, the type of cheese you use can vary depending on your preferences. Some people prefer using processed cheese slices, while others opt for fresh shredded cheese. Both options have their own advantages and considerations.
Processed cheese slices, such as Kraft Singles, are a popular choice for ramen because they melt and stretch easily, creating a cheesy layer that perfectly combines with the noodles. This type of cheese is also convenient and affordable, lasting longer on the shelf due to added preservatives. However, it's important to note that processed cheese is not 100% cheese, usually containing around 50% cheese mixed with other non-cheese ingredients like salt, preservatives, and artificial additives.
On the other hand, fresh shredded cheese offers a more natural option with a potentially higher cheese content. Shredded cheese melts faster than slices, making it ideal for dishes where even coverage is desired, such as pizza. However, shredded cheese can be messier and may not be suitable for sandwiches or ramen where it could fall out or clump up. Additionally, pre-shredded cheese may include anti-caking agents that can affect texture and melting behaviour.
When choosing between processed cheese slices and fresh shredded cheese for ramen, consider the desired texture and melting behaviour. Slices provide a stretchy, cheesy layer that combines well with the noodles, while shredded cheese may melt faster and offer a different sensory experience. Personal preference plays a significant role in this decision, as some people enjoy the convenience and taste of processed cheese, while others prefer the freshness and higher cheese content of shredded options.
In conclusion, both processed cheese slices and fresh shredded cheese can be suitable for ramen, depending on your specific needs and tastes. Processed cheese slices offer convenience, stretchiness, and easy melting, while fresh shredded cheese provides a faster melt and a more natural alternative, albeit with potential issues related to messiness and texture due to anti-caking agents. Ultimately, the choice between processed cheese slices and fresh shredded cheese for ramen comes down to individual preferences and the specific characteristics each option offers.
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Cheddar cheese and fatty bases
Cheddar cheese is a popular choice for ramen, as it melts smoothly and adds a creamy, salty tang to the dish. However, as cheddar and similar cheeses are prone to melting unevenly, a fatty base is necessary to help build an emulsion and prevent the cheese from clumping.
Ramen is a brothy dish, so it is not ideal for cheddar alone. To create a stable emulsion, a fatty base such as milk, butter, or cream is required. This base not only helps the cheese melt evenly but also adds richness and flavour to the dish.
When preparing ramen with cheddar cheese, it is important to control the temperature carefully. Cheese is temperamental and can behave unpredictably if exposed to high temperatures. By incorporating the cheese slowly and at a lower temperature, you can create a smooth and creamy dish.
Additionally, it is recommended to grate the cheese beforehand and set it aside. This ensures that the cheese melts evenly and efficiently when added to the ramen.
For a unique twist, you can experiment with different types of cheddar cheese blends, such as cheddar jack. The higher moisture content of jack cheese will result in a more even melt, creating a creamy and indulgent dish.
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American cheese and ramen: natural companions?
American cheese and ramen might seem like an unusual combination, but it is a popular pairing, particularly in Korea. American cheese is a versatile and accessible ingredient that can be added to ramen in a variety of ways to create a delicious and indulgent meal.
History
The combination of American cheese and ramen has its roots in the Korean War. During this time, Koreans received rations from American military bases, which included American cheese and spam. This led to the creation of a dish called "Army Stew," which incorporated these ingredients. Over time, adding American cheese to ramen became commonplace in Korean cuisine, and it has since spread to other parts of the world.
Taste and Texture
American cheese adds a creamy, salty, and indulgent dimension to ramen. Its high fat and sodium content contribute to a rich and velvety texture when melted into the broth. The cheese also provides protein and calcium, making the dish more filling and nutritious. Additionally, American cheese is known for its melting properties, easily blending into the broth without leaving behind grease, resulting in a gooey, mac and cheese-like consistency.
Preparation Tips
When preparing ramen with American cheese, there are several methods to consider:
- Sliced American cheese can be added directly to the hot noodles and broth, allowing it to melt and create a cheesy layer that stretches and sticks to the noodles.
- Grated or sliced American cheese can be incorporated into the broth while it is still hot, creating a creamy and cheesy sauce.
- For a spicy twist, American cheese can be melted with butter, milk, garlic, and spices like cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes, before being mixed with the noodles.
Complementary Ingredients
American cheese ramen can be enhanced with a variety of complementary ingredients:
- Spam, fried until crispy, adds a salty and savory element to the dish.
- Cornstarch slurry can be used to thicken the sauce, creating a silkier and creamier texture compared to flour roux.
- A soft-boiled or fried egg can be added for extra creaminess and richness.
- Toasted sesame seeds and chopped scallions can be sprinkled on top for added flavor and texture.
In conclusion, American cheese and ramen are indeed natural companions. The versatility of American cheese allows it to enhance the flavor and texture of ramen, creating a comforting and indulgent meal. While it may not be the first ingredient that comes to mind for ramen, it is worth exploring the delicious possibilities that this combination has to offer.
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Thickening the sauce: cornstarch slurry vs. flour roux
When it comes to thickening the sauce for your cheese ramen, you have a few options, including using a cornstarch slurry or a flour roux. Here's a detailed guide to help you decide which method to use:
Cornstarch Slurry:
Cornstarch, also known as cornflour, is a common thickening agent in cooking. To use it effectively, you must first create a slurry, which is a mixture of equal parts cornstarch and cold liquid, usually water, stock, or wine. The slurry is then added to the simmering sauce, creating a glossy and silky texture. Cornstarch has twice the thickening power of flour, so a little goes a long way. It's important to note that cornstarch-thickened sauces can break down if overcooked, and they may not work as well with acidic sauces.
Flour Roux:
A roux is a mixture of flour and fat, often used to thicken creamy soups and sauces. To create a flour roux, you would typically use equal parts flour and fat, such as butter or oil, cooked together until the desired consistency is reached. A flour roux can be a good option if you're looking for a more opaque and less glossy sauce. However, it's important to be cautious as flour can sometimes form lumps in the sauce.
Which Method to Choose:
The choice between a cornstarch slurry and a flour roux depends on the specific sauce and your desired outcome. Cornstarch slurry is ideal for achieving a glossy, silky texture without altering the colour of the dish significantly. It is also more potent than flour, requiring smaller quantities. On the other hand, flour roux might be preferred if you want an opaque sauce or if you're looking to add a fatty component to your dish. Additionally, consider the acidity of your sauce, as cornstarch may lose effectiveness in highly acidic sauces.
Tips for Cheese Ramen:
When making cheese ramen, it's important to grate the cheese beforehand and set it aside. For the sauce, you can use milk, butter, soy sauce, and spices. To thicken this sauce, a cornstarch slurry is often preferred as it creates a silkier and creamier texture. Remember to turn off the heat before adding the cheese to prevent it from sticking to the pan. Additionally, be cautious with the temperature to avoid overcooking the noodles.
Cheese Recommendations:
The type of cheese you use for your ramen can vary depending on your preferences. Processed American cheese slices, such as Kraft Singles, are popular choices as they melt and stretch well, creating a cheesy layer that sticks to the noodles. Other options include mozzarella, cheddar, and even cream cheese, depending on the flavour profile you're aiming for.
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Ramen and cheese: a full-on ramen experience?
Ramen is a versatile dish with many ways to dress it up. While ramen and cheese might not seem like an obvious combination, it is a delicious and simple way to elevate a bowl of noodle soup. Cheese is rich in free glutamates, a building block for umami flavour, and ramen is packed with umami. Adding cheese to ramen also adds fat and carbohydrates, enriching the broth.
Processed American cheese slices, such as Kraft Singles, are a popular choice to add to ramen. This is because processed cheese melts and stretches easily, making it a perfect topping for broth-based ramen. It blends into the broth, creating a gooey, mac and cheese-like sauce. American cheese is also available in larger blocks and is rich in protein and calcium.
Other cheese options include cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan. Freshly shredded cheese is recommended as it melts better. Mozzarella is a good option for spicy ramen, and parmesan can be omitted to make the dish healthier.
There are a few different methods to make cheesy ramen. One way is to cook the ramen noodles according to the package instructions, keeping them al dente, and setting aside a cup of pasta water. In a separate pot, melt butter, then add milk, shredded cheese, garlic powder, and the ramen flavour packet. Stir until smooth, then add the cooked noodles and toss to coat.
Another method is to cook the noodles and set them aside. In the same pot, add milk, butter, soy sauce, and spices, stirring until the butter melts and the milk boils. Then, add a cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce, followed by grated cheese, stirring until melted. Finally, add the cooked noodles to the sauce.
Additional tips
To prevent overcooking the noodles, it is important to handle them with care and cook them al dente. It is also recommended to use good-quality noodles, such as Mike's Mighty Good, which are steamed rather than fried and have a chewy texture.
Cheese ramen can be customised with various ingredients. Some suggestions include adding meat or tofu for protein, vegetables for texture and vitamins, and spices for extra flavour. For a salty twist, spam can be chopped into small cubes, pan-fried, and mixed into the ramen.
Cheesy ramen is a quick, delicious, and comforting meal or side dish that can be easily customised to suit different tastes and preferences.
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Frequently asked questions
Processed American cheese slices, such as Kraft Singles, are a popular choice for ramen due to their ability to melt and stretch, creating a cheesy layer that sticks to the noodles. Other options include cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, and Swiss cheese.
American cheese is a convenient and affordable option that melts easily without leaving behind grease, making it ideal for adding a cheesy element to ramen. It is also rich in protein and calcium.
Prepare the ramen noodles according to the package instructions, adding extra water if needed. Keep the noodles al dente and set them aside, reserving some pasta water. In a separate pot, melt butter over medium heat, then add milk, shredded cheese, garlic powder, and the ramen flavor packet. Stir continuously until smooth. Combine the noodles with the cheese sauce and serve.
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