When the summer heat hits full blast, we all crave something light, refreshing, and satisfying. Look no further than the delightful world of summer noodle recipes! Ramen, somen and soba has taken the culinary scene by storm with comforting flavors and versatility. In this post, we’ll explore the art of preparing cold noodle dishes that are perfect for those scorching hot days. Join us as we share mouthwatering recipes and shed light on the origins and history of these beloved dishes.
Hiyashi Chuka: A Summer dish
Eaten during hot Summer months in Japan. Originating from China, Hiyashi Chuka is a popular cold ramen dish that has become a staple in Japan during the sweltering summer months. This refreshing and vibrant dish combines chilled ramen noodles with an assortment of colorful toppings, creating a symphony of flavors.
Recipe: Ingredients:
- Chilled ramen noodles
- Assorted vegetables (cucumbers, carrots, bell peppers, etc.)
- Cooked chicken or shrimp (optional)
- Soy sauce
- Rice vinegar
- Sesame oil
- Sugar
- Toasted sesame seeds
- Pickled ginger (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the ramen noodles according to the package instructions, then rinse them with cold water and drain.
- Slice the vegetables into thin strips or matchsticks.
- In a bowl, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and sugar to create the dressing.
- Toss the chilled noodles with the dressing until well-coated.
- Arrange the noodles in a serving bowl and top with the sliced vegetables, cooked chicken or shrimp (if desired), toasted sesame seeds, and pickled ginger.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing flavors of Hiyashi Chuka!
Naengmyeon: Korean Cold Noodles
Popular in Korea during Summer. Originating from Korea, Naengmyeon is a traditional cold noodle dish enjoyed during the summer season. The noodles are typically made from buckwheat flour or sweet potato starch, resulting in a unique texture and flavor. Let’s use our Oishii Made Soba Noodles which are a great substitute for traditional Korean noodles.
Recipe: Ingredients:
- Buckwheat noodles
- Beef broth or vegetable broth
- Asian pear, julienned
- Cucumber, julienned
- Radish, thinly sliced
- Boiled egg, halved
- Vinegar
- Mustard sauce
- Sesame oil
- Ice cubes (for serving)
Instructions:
- Cook the buckwheat noodles according to the package instructions, then rinse them with cold water and drain.
- In a bowl, combine the beef broth or vegetable broth, vinegar, and sesame oil to create the chilled broth.
- Place the cooked noodles in a serving bowl and top with the julienned Asian pear, cucumber, and radish.
- Pour the chilled broth over the noodles and add a dollop of mustard sauce on top.
- Serve with a halved-boiled egg and ice cubes for an extra refreshing touch.
- Mix everything together before enjoying the invigorating flavors of Naengmyeon!
Gazpacho Ramen: A Fusion Twist
Inspired by Spanish gazpacho, served cold. Adding a fusion twist to our cold ramen adventures, let’s introduce Gazpacho Ramen! Inspired by the chilled Spanish soup, this dish combines the refreshing flavors of gazpacho with the satisfying goodness of ramen. Check out the recipe and its backstory:
Recipe: Ingredients:
- Chilled ramen noodles
- Tomatoes, diced
- Cucumber, diced
- Red bell pepper, diced
- Red onion, finely chopped
- Garlic clove, minced
- Olive oil
- Red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, torn
- Croutons (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the ramen noodles according to the package instructions, then rinse them with cold water and drain.
- In a blender, combine the diced tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, garlic clove, olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Blend until smooth and chilled.
- In a serving bowl, place the chilled noodles and pour the gazpacho mixture over them.
- Garnish with torn basil leaves and croutons (if desired).
- Serve immediately and savor the unique fusion of flavors in Gazpacho Ramen!
Embrace our summer noodle recipes with these delicious cold noodle dishes that will keep you cool, satisfied, and craving more. Whether you’re slurping up the refreshing Hiyashi Chuka from Japan, indulging in the invigorating Naengmyeon from Korea, or savoring the fusion twist of Gazpacho Ramen, these recipes offer a delightful culinary adventure. Beat the heat and enjoy the diversity of flavors in summer ramen, adding a touch of excitement to your seasonal menu.
