Do you know those weekends when you have a sick kid, a big project, and a messy house that needs to be cleaned? Yes, me too!
In our house, this usually means ramen noodles for lunch. Ramen reminds me of simpler times. It is often the first thing that someone learns how to cook. I remember thinking, “Oh, all I have to do is boil this water? Cook it.” Ramen saved me many times in my college dorm days or when I was sick, and my mom was not nearby. It also saved me during college exams. No doubt. Plus, let’s be honest, the kids love them, and they are a quick comfort food.
Yes, I know that ramen has about 800 mg of sodium in it.
Here are some ways to make it healthier:
- Add veggies. Add green beans, peas, broccoli, edamame or sauteed mushrooms.
2. Make a quick broth instead of using the flavour packet. Just use chicken broth and seasoning such as garlic and ginger. You can also just add half of the flavour packet.
3. Add protein. Add a boiled egg or last night’s leftover shredded chicken or shrimp.
4. Add fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley right before eating.
5. Add coconut milk to give it a different flavour, or add tomato sauce and Italian seasoning.
6. Make egg drop soup by adding a beaten egg, scallions and spinach.
Recipe here of egg drop soup by Caroly Hodges of Eating Well:
Bring water to a boil. Add part of the seasoning packet. Add noodles. In a small dish, beat an egg. Slowly pour it into the simmering soup while stirring. Stir in a cup of baby spinach until it wilts (about 30 seconds). Serve topped with sliced green onions.
