Cheese And Ramen: The Perfect Pairing?

Ramen and cheese might not seem like an obvious combination, but it's become increasingly popular. The dish is inspired by Korean comfort food, where it's common to find cheese tossed into spicy foods to balance the heat. The result is a warm, creamy bowl of noodles with a kick of spice and a gooey layer of melted cheese.

When it comes to choosing the best cheese for ramen, there are a few options that work well. Processed American cheese slices, like Kraft Singles, are a popular choice for broth-based ramen because they melt and stretch easily, creating a cheesy layer on top of the noodles. Mozzarella is another good option, especially for stir-fried or sauce-based ramen, as it creates a super chewy, cheesy texture. Other cheeses that work well with ramen include cheddar, parmesan, cream cheese, gouda, and cheddar jack/blended cheese.

To make cheesy ramen, cook the ramen noodles according to the packet instructions, then drain and add the flavour using the included seasoning packet. Place a slice of American cheese or a handful of shredded mozzarella directly on top of the hot noodles and let the steam melt the cheese. Finish with toppings of your choice, such as sliced green onions, protein, or crushed roasted seaweed flakes.

Mozzarella is a good option for ramen, but it takes longer to melt

Mozzarella is mild and balances well with spicy flavours. It is a good option for those who want a less intense cheese flavour in their ramen. However, it is important to note that mozzarella typically takes longer to melt than other types of cheese. This means that it may not be the best choice for those who want a quick and easy ramen dish.

When using mozzarella in ramen, it is best to add it directly to the sauté pan during the stir-fry phase. This will allow the cheese to melt, caramelise, and form a crunchy, cheesy crust. It is also important to note that mozzarella works best in ramen dishes that are not broth-based. Adding mozzarella to broth-based ramen may result in a clumpy and unevenly melted cheese layer.

For those who want to add mozzarella to their ramen, it is recommended to grate the cheese beforehand. This will help it melt more evenly and quickly. It is also important to add the cheese at the end of the cooking process, as this will ensure that it does not burn or stick to the pan.

Overall, mozzarella is a good option for those who want a mild and stretchy cheese in their ramen. However, it is important to consider the longer melting time and adjust the recipe accordingly.

Cheddar is a popular choice as it melts easily and has a tangy flavour

While there are many types of cheese that can be added to ramen, cheddar is a popular choice. This is because it melts easily and has a tangy flavour. It is also creamy, salty, and smooth, making it a great addition to ramen.

When making cheesy ramen, it is important to consider the type of ramen and temperature control. For broth-style ramen, it is best to add the cheese after the ramen is finished cooking and plated. This will create a cheesy layer on top of the ramen without dissolving into the broth. For stir-fry or dry noodle styles, the cheese should be added directly to the sauté pan during the stir fry phase to create a crunchy, cheesy crust.

To make cheddar cheesy ramen, you will need the following ingredients:

• Water
• Instant ramen noodles
• Butter
• Milk
• Garlic powder
• Black pepper
• Cheddar cheese
• Green onions (optional)

First, cook the ramen noodles according to the packet instructions, ensuring they are slightly al dente. Then, add the flavour using the included flavouring from the soup packet. Next, add the cheese. Allow the cheese to melt, either on top of the hot noodles or in the sauté pan. Finally, add any desired toppings, such as green onions, protein, or crushed roasted seaweed flakes.

Some tips for making the best cheddar cheesy ramen include:

• Using less water to create a more concentrated flavour
• Undercooking the noodles slightly, as they will continue to cook when the hot broth and cheese are added
• Adding a bit of extra cheese for a richer and creamier hue
• Adding some veggies or protein for extra texture and nutrition
• Adding the cheese as soon as the ramen is off the heat and still piping hot for optimal melting

American cheese slices are great for broth-based ramen as they melt and stretch

American cheese slices are a fantastic addition to your broth-based ramen. Not only do they add a creamy texture to the dish, but their unique ability to melt and stretch makes them the perfect topping. Here's why you should consider adding American cheese slices to your next bowl of broth-based ramen.

The Magic of Melty, Stretchy Cheese

American cheese slices, such as Kraft Singles, are processed cheeses designed to melt and stretch beautifully. When you add a slice to your hot bowl of ramen and let it steam for a minute, you'll be treated to a cheesy layer that stretches and sticks to your noodles as you slurp them up. It's like having a warm, cheesy blanket wrapped around each bite, creating a delightful textural experience.

Enhancing the Flavour of Broth

American cheese slices not only add a cheesy flavour to your ramen, but they also enhance the overall taste experience. Cheese is naturally rich in free glutamates, which are building blocks of umami flavour. By adding American cheese slices, you boost the umami factor in your broth, making it even more savoury and irresistible. It's like taking your regular bowl of ramen and turning it up a notch on the flavour scale.

A Simple and Convenient Upgrade

Another advantage of using American cheese slices is their convenience. These slices are readily available and easy to store, making them an excellent option for a quick and tasty upgrade to your ramen. You don't need to grate or shred the cheese, and they melt effortlessly without requiring any special techniques. Just add a slice or two to your bowl, and you're ready to enjoy an elevated ramen experience.

Customisation Options

While American cheese slices are great on their own, you can also get creative and customise your cheesy ramen further. Try adding some sliced green onions, a soft-boiled egg, or even some crushed roasted seaweed flakes for an extra kick of saltiness. You can also experiment with different types of ramen, such as spicy kimchi ramen or tonkotsu ramen, to find your favourite flavour combinations.

Tips for the Best Results

To ensure the best results when using American cheese slices in your ramen, follow these simple tips:

• Add the cheese after your ramen is cooked and plated. This prevents the cheese from dissolving into the broth and allows it to stretch and stick to your noodles.
• Be mindful of temperature control. Cheese can be temperamental, so add the cheese when your ramen is still hot and let the steam do its magic.
• Don't overcook your noodles. Aim for al dente, as they will continue cooking when you add the hot broth and cheese.
• If you want a thinner consistency for your ramen broth, you can add a bit of pasta water or milk to adjust it to your preferred texture.

Parmesan is best added to fatty or thickened broths/sauces

Parmesan is best added to fatty or thickened broths or sauces. This is because parmesan does not easily emulsify into a soup or broth. In other words, it won't blend seamlessly into the liquid. Instead, it will likely sink to the bottom of the pan and stick.

Parmesan is a popular cheese to add to ramen, but it's important to know when and how to add it. If you're adding parmesan to a broth-based ramen, it's best to add it after the ramen is finished cooking and has been plated. This will allow the cheese to melt and stretch without dissolving into the broth. You can also try adding it to the top of your bowl of ramen and letting it steam for a minute to create a cheesy layer that will stretch and stick to the noodles as you eat.

If you're adding parmesan to a stir-fry or dry noodle dish, you'll want to add it directly to the saute pan during the stir-fry phase. This will allow the cheese to melt, caramelise, and form a crunchy, cheesy crust.

When adding parmesan to ramen, it's also important to consider the type of ramen and temperature control. For broth-style ramen, adding cheese after cooking and plating is key to preventing it from dissolving into the broth. For stir-fry or dry noodle styles, adding cheese during the cooking process will result in a delicious, crispy cheese crust.

In addition to parmesan, other popular cheeses to add to ramen include American cheese, cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheese. Ultimately, the best cheese to use depends on your personal preference and the type of ramen you're making.

Cream cheese is a good option if you want your ramen to be extra creamy

When making creamy cheese ramen, it is important to adjust the amount of water used. For a creamier consistency, use less water. Additionally, it is crucial not to overcook the noodles to avoid sogginess. It is recommended to undercook the noodles by about a minute, as they will continue to cook when mixed with the hot broth and cheese.

When adding the cheese, it is best to wait until the milk starts to bubble and thicken before turning off the heat. This will ensure that the cheese doesn't sink to the bottom of the pan and stick. Adding a slice of cheese or a handful of shredded cheese directly to the hot noodles will create a satisfying cheesy layer. Allowing the steam to build up in the covered bowl will help melt the cheese evenly.

For a more indulgent and creamy ramen, don't be afraid to add a generous amount of cheese. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as sharp cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan, to create a more complex cheese profile. Remember, the key to achieving the perfect creamy cheese ramen is timing and temperature control.

Frequently asked questions