What ingredients are needed to make authentic buldak ramen at home?

To make authentic buldak ramen, you’ll need Korean ramen noodles, gochujang (fermented chili paste), gochugaru (Korean red chili flakes), soy sauce, garlic, ginger, brown sugar or honey, sesame oil, and optional toppings like mozzarella cheese, sesame seeds, and green onions. Chicken thighs are traditional, but tofu or mushrooms work well for plant-based versions.

How spicy is buldak ramen, and can the heat level be adjusted in the recipe?

Buldak ramen is famously spicy, often described as “fire noodles.” However, you can absolutely adjust the heat. Start with smaller amounts of gochugaru and gochujang, and gradually increase to taste. Adding cheese, cream, or egg also helps balance the spice for a milder version.

What are some popular toppings or additions to enhance a buldak ramen recipe?

Popular toppings include a soft-boiled egg, scallions, sesame seeds, kimchi, crispy garlic chips, or even crushed seaweed. Cheese is a favorite in Korean variations. You can also add stir-fried vegetables, pickled radish, or a protein like chicken or tofu for a full, satisfying meal.

Can buldak ramen be made vegetarian or vegan, and how would the recipe change?

Yes! To make it vegetarian, simply skip the chicken and use tofu or mushrooms. For vegan buldak ramen, replace gochujang with a vegan version or use miso for depth, and omit cheese—or use vegan cheese. Ensure your noodles and sauces are plant-based, and you’re good to go.

Buldak Ramen Recipe – Ultimate 20-Min Guide to Fiery, Delicious Noodles

Description

A fiery, sweet, and savory buldak ramen recipe made with gochujang, gochugaru, and customizable toppings.

Ingredients

Scale

2 packs Korean ramen noodles

2 tbsp gochujang

1 tbsp gochugaru

1 tbsp soy sauce

1 tbsp brown sugar

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp ginger, minced

1 tsp sesame oil

1/2 cup mozzarella cheese (optional)

1 tbsp sesame seeds

2 scallions, chopped

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Instructions

1. Boil ramen noodles until al dente; drain and reserve 1/4 cup water.

2. Sauté garlic and ginger in oil.

3. Add chicken or tofu if using and cook through.

4. Stir in gochujang, gochugaru, soy sauce, and sugar.

5. Thin sauce with reserved water; toss in noodles.

6. Drizzle sesame oil and stir to coat.

7. Top with cheese if using and cover to melt.

8. Garnish with sesame seeds and scallions.

9. Serve hot.

Notes

Adjust gochugaru for preferred spice level. Add broth for buldak soup. Use tofu and vegan cheese for vegan version.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Noodles
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Korean

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 450
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 1200mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 60g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 14g
Cholesterol: 40mg