Miso Ramen Noodle Bowl with Meat and Veggies

Backstory

This dish combines the rich umami flavors of miso with tender noodles and a mix of ground beef and pork. It's a perfect fusion meal that captures the essence of Japanese comfort food!

Ingredients

• 250 g ground beef
• 250 g ground pork
• 200 g ramen noodles
• 100 g assorted veggies (such as bell pepper, carrots, and bok choy)
• 30 g miso paste
• 800 mL chicken or vegetable broth
• 15 mL soy sauce
• 15 mL sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ginger, grated
• 2 scallions, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 medium egg (optional, for topping)

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Noodles:

   • Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

2. Cook the Meat:

   • In a large pot, heat the sesame oil over medium heat.
   • Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
   • Add the ground beef and pork to the pot. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes, breaking it up as you sauté.

3. Add Veggies and Broth:

   • Once the meats are cooked, add the assorted veggies to the pot and stir for another 2-3 minutes.
   • Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.

4. Incorporate Miso Paste:

   • In a small bowl, dissolve the miso paste in a few spoonfuls of hot broth, then return it to the pot.
   • Add the soy sauce and stir well. Let the broth simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to meld the flavors together.

5. Combine with Noodles:

   • Add the cooked ramen noodles into the pot and gently stir to combine everything. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat the noodles through.

6. Serve:

   • Ladle the ramen bowl into serving bowls and top with chopped scallions. Optionally, you can add a soft-boiled egg on top for extra richness.

Flavor Profile Explanation

This dish has a hearty and umami-rich broth thanks to the miso, which adds depth and creaminess. The ground meats provide a savory base, while the fresh veggies offer a nice crunch and burst of flavor. The sesame oil adds a hint of nuttiness, making each bite comforting and satisfying.