Elevate Your Ramen Game: Delicious Maruchan Gold Recipes You Can Make With Ingredients From Walmart
Maruchan Gold Ramen. The name itself evokes images of a richer, more flavorful instant noodle experience. Available at Walmart, it’s a convenient and affordable way to enjoy a quick meal. But let’s be honest, sometimes you want more than just plain ramen. You crave something… elevated. Something that transforms a simple packet into a culinary masterpiece (or at least, a very satisfying and customized bowl). This article will guide you through a variety of delicious Maruchan Gold ramen recipes using readily available ingredients you can easily find at your local Walmart. Get ready to ditch the plain broth and unlock the full potential of your Maruchan Gold!
Why Maruchan Gold? What Makes It Special?
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s talk about why Maruchan Gold is a step above the standard instant ramen. Maruchan Gold typically features:
* **Thicker Noodles:** The noodles tend to be heartier and have a better texture compared to the original Maruchan. They hold up better to additions and don’t get as mushy.
* **Richer Broth:** The broth often boasts a deeper, more complex flavor profile. It’s a great base for building on and customizing.
* **Variety of Flavors:** Maruchan Gold comes in several appealing flavors, such as Chicken, Beef, and Pork, each offering a distinct foundation for your culinary creations.
These improvements provide a significantly better canvas to work with, allowing you to create genuinely exciting and delicious ramen dishes.
Essential Ingredients to Stock Up on at Walmart
To embark on your Maruchan Gold ramen adventure, you’ll need a few key ingredients. Fortunately, Walmart has everything you need at affordable prices.
* **Maruchan Gold Ramen:** Obviously! Grab your favorite flavor or a variety pack to experiment with.
* **Protein:**
* **Eggs:** A classic ramen addition. Buy a dozen or two.
* **Chicken:** Canned chicken, rotisserie chicken (shredded), or chicken breast are all great options.
* **Pork:** Pre-cooked pulled pork, bacon bits, or even sliced deli ham can add savory depth.
* **Shrimp:** Frozen shrimp cooks quickly and adds a touch of elegance.
* **Tofu:** For a vegetarian option, grab some firm or extra-firm tofu.
* **Vegetables:**
* **Green Onions:** Essential for garnish and a fresh, mild onion flavor.
* **Spinach:** Adds nutrients and a vibrant green color.
* **Mushrooms:** Shiitake, cremini, or even canned mushrooms work well.
* **Carrots:** Shredded carrots add sweetness and crunch.
* **Corn:** Canned or frozen corn provides sweetness and texture.
* **Bean Sprouts:** Adds a refreshing crunch.
* **Bok Choy:** A mild and leafy green that complements ramen well.
* **Sauces and Seasonings:**
* **Soy Sauce:** A staple for umami flavor.
* **Sesame Oil:** Adds a nutty aroma and richness.
* **Sriracha or Chili Garlic Sauce:** For a spicy kick.
* **Rice Vinegar:** Adds acidity and balance.
* **Ginger:** Fresh ginger (grated) or ginger powder adds warmth and spice.
* **Garlic:** Fresh garlic (minced) or garlic powder adds pungent flavor.
* **Everything Bagel Seasoning:** Adds texture and flavor.
* **Furikake:** A Japanese seasoning blend made with seaweed, sesame seeds, and other ingredients.
* **Other Essentials:**
* **Sesame Seeds:** For garnish and added flavor.
* **Nori Seaweed:** Adds a savory and slightly salty flavor.
This list provides a solid foundation. Feel free to add other ingredients based on your preferences and what’s available at Walmart.
Recipe 1: Creamy Chicken Ramen with a Soft-Boiled Egg
This recipe elevates Maruchan Gold Chicken Ramen into a creamy, comforting bowl. The soft-boiled egg adds richness and a perfectly runny yolk.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 packet Maruchan Gold Chicken Ramen
* 1 cup water
* 1/2 cup milk (or cream for extra richness)
* 1/4 cup shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
* 1 egg
* 1 tablespoon soy sauce
* 1 teaspoon sesame oil
* 1/4 cup chopped green onions
* Pinch of black pepper
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Egg:** Bring a small pot of water to a boil. Gently lower the egg into the boiling water and cook for 6-7 minutes for a soft-boiled egg with a runny yolk. Immediately transfer the egg to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Once cool enough to handle, gently peel the egg and set aside.
2. **Prepare the Ramen:** In a saucepan, bring 1 cup of water to a boil. Add the Maruchan Gold Chicken Ramen noodles and cook according to package directions (usually about 3 minutes).
3. **Create the Creamy Broth:** Stir in the flavor packet from the ramen. Then, add the milk (or cream), soy sauce, and sesame oil. Stir well to combine.
4. **Add the Chicken:** Add the shredded chicken to the saucepan and heat through.
5. **Assemble and Serve:** Pour the ramen and broth into a bowl. Carefully cut the soft-boiled egg in half and place it on top of the ramen. Garnish with chopped green onions and a pinch of black pepper.
**Tips and Variations:**
* For a thicker broth, add a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water) to the boiling broth.
* Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
* Substitute the chicken with tofu or shrimp.
* Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the broth while it’s cooking.
Recipe 2: Spicy Pork Ramen with Kimchi and Bean Sprouts
This recipe takes Maruchan Gold Pork Ramen to the next level with the addition of spicy kimchi, crunchy bean sprouts, and a savory pork flavor.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 packet Maruchan Gold Pork Ramen
* 1 cup water
* 1/4 cup kimchi, chopped
* 1/4 cup bean sprouts
* 2 slices cooked bacon, crumbled (or bacon bits)
* 1 tablespoon soy sauce
* 1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce (or sriracha)
* 1/4 cup chopped green onions
* Sesame seeds (for garnish)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Ramen:** In a saucepan, bring 1 cup of water to a boil. Add the Maruchan Gold Pork Ramen noodles and cook according to package directions.
2. **Add Flavor and Vegetables:** Stir in the flavor packet from the ramen. Add the kimchi and bean sprouts to the saucepan and cook for another minute, until the bean sprouts are slightly softened.
3. **Add Sauces and Pork:** Stir in the soy sauce and chili garlic sauce. Add the crumbled bacon (or bacon bits).
4. **Assemble and Serve:** Pour the ramen and broth into a bowl. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Adjust the amount of chili garlic sauce to your spice preference.
* Add a fried egg on top for extra richness.
* Substitute the bacon with pulled pork or ground pork.
* Add a drizzle of sesame oil for added flavor.
* For a vegetarian option, use mushrooms instead of pork and add a vegetarian kimchi.
Recipe 3: Beef Ramen Stir-Fry with Vegetables
This recipe transforms Maruchan Gold Beef Ramen into a flavorful and satisfying stir-fry. It’s a great way to use leftover cooked beef and load up on vegetables.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 packet Maruchan Gold Beef Ramen
* 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
* 1/2 cup cooked beef, thinly sliced (steak, roast beef, etc.)
* 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (broccoli florets, sliced carrots, bell peppers)
* 1 tablespoon soy sauce
* 1 teaspoon sesame oil
* 1/2 teaspoon ginger, grated
* 1/4 teaspoon garlic, minced
* Sesame seeds (for garnish)
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Noodles:** Cook the Maruchan Gold Beef Ramen noodles according to package directions, but drain them before adding the flavor packet. Reserve the noodles.
2. **Prepare the Stir-Fry:** Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced beef and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes, until heated through.
3. **Add Vegetables:** Add the mixed vegetables to the wok and stir-fry for 3-5 minutes, until tender-crisp.
4. **Add Sauce and Noodles:** Stir in the soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic. Add the cooked ramen noodles to the wok and toss everything together to combine.
5. **Assemble and Serve:** Serve the ramen stir-fry immediately. Garnish with sesame seeds.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use any vegetables you have on hand, such as snap peas, mushrooms, or onions.
* Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
* Substitute the beef with chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
* Add a drizzle of oyster sauce for extra umami flavor.
* If you don’t have cooked beef, you can use ground beef and cook it in the wok before adding the vegetables.
Recipe 4: Cheesy Chicken Ramen with Broccoli
This recipe transforms Maruchan Gold Chicken Ramen into a cheesy delight with the addition of broccoli and cheddar cheese. It’s a comfort food classic with a ramen twist.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 packet Maruchan Gold Chicken Ramen
* 1 cup water
* 1/2 cup broccoli florets
* 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
* 1 tablespoon butter
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* Pinch of black pepper
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Broccoli:** Steam or microwave the broccoli florets until tender-crisp. Set aside.
2. **Prepare the Ramen:** In a saucepan, bring 1 cup of water to a boil. Add the Maruchan Gold Chicken Ramen noodles and cook according to package directions.
3. **Add Flavor and Butter:** Stir in the flavor packet from the ramen. Add the butter and garlic powder. Stir until the butter is melted.
4. **Add Cheese and Broccoli:** Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and creamy. Add the steamed broccoli florets.
5. **Assemble and Serve:** Pour the cheesy chicken ramen into a bowl. Add a pinch of black pepper.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Colby Jack.
* Add cooked chicken or bacon for extra protein.
* Add a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
* For a richer flavor, use milk instead of water when cooking the ramen.
* Add a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top before serving.
Recipe 5: Shrimp Ramen with Coconut Milk and Lime
This recipe transforms Maruchan Gold Ramen into a flavorful and exotic dish with the addition of coconut milk, shrimp, and lime juice. It’s a taste of Southeast Asia in a bowl.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 packet Maruchan Gold Ramen (Chicken or Seafood flavor)
* 1 cup water
* 1/2 cup coconut milk
* 1/4 cup cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
* 1 tablespoon lime juice
* 1 teaspoon soy sauce
* 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
* 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro (for garnish)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Ramen:** In a saucepan, bring 1 cup of water to a boil. Add the Maruchan Gold Ramen noodles and cook according to package directions.
2. **Add Flavor and Coconut Milk:** Stir in the flavor packet from the ramen. Add the coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
3. **Add Shrimp and Lime Juice:** Add the cooked shrimp and lime juice. Cook for another minute, until the shrimp is heated through.
4. **Assemble and Serve:** Pour the shrimp ramen into a bowl. Garnish with chopped cilantro and red pepper flakes (if using).
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use different types of seafood, such as scallops or mussels.
* Add vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or bean sprouts.
* Add a drizzle of fish sauce for extra umami flavor.
* Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your spice preference.
* For a richer flavor, use full-fat coconut milk.
Recipe 6: Vegetarian Tofu Ramen with Sesame Ginger Broth
This recipe transforms Maruchan Gold Ramen into a delicious and healthy vegetarian meal with the addition of tofu, vegetables, and a flavorful sesame ginger broth.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 packet Maruchan Gold Ramen (Vegetable or Chicken flavor)
* 1 cup water
* 1/2 cup firm or extra-firm tofu, cubed
* 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (broccoli florets, sliced carrots, snap peas)
* 1 tablespoon soy sauce
* 1 teaspoon sesame oil
* 1/2 teaspoon ginger, grated
* 1/4 teaspoon garlic, minced
* 1/4 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)
* Sesame seeds (for garnish)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Ramen:** In a saucepan, bring 1 cup of water to a boil. Add the Maruchan Gold Ramen noodles and cook according to package directions.
2. **Add Flavor and Vegetables:** Stir in the flavor packet from the ramen. Add the tofu and mixed vegetables. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
3. **Add Sauce and Seasonings:** Stir in the soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic.
4. **Assemble and Serve:** Pour the vegetarian tofu ramen into a bowl. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Marinate the tofu in soy sauce and ginger before adding it to the ramen for extra flavor.
* Use any vegetables you have on hand, such as mushrooms, spinach, or bok choy.
* Add a drizzle of rice vinegar for acidity.
* Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
* For a richer flavor, use vegetable broth instead of water.
Recipe 7: Egg Drop Ramen
This recipe brings a comforting classic to your ramen bowl. It’s simple, quick, and satisfying.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 packet Maruchan Gold Ramen (any flavor)
* 1 1/2 cups water
* 1 egg, beaten
* 1 tablespoon soy sauce
* 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
* Chopped green onions (for garnish)
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Ramen:** In a saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Add the Maruchan Gold Ramen noodles and cook according to package directions.
2. **Add Flavor and Soy Sauce:** Stir in the flavor packet from the ramen and soy sauce.
3. **Create the Egg Drop:** Reduce the heat to low. Slowly drizzle the beaten egg into the simmering broth, stirring gently with a fork. The egg will cook and form thin strands.
4. **Finish and Serve:** Stir in the sesame oil. Pour the egg drop ramen into a bowl. Garnish with chopped green onions.
**Tips and Variations:**
* For thicker egg strands, drizzle the egg more slowly.
* Add a pinch of white pepper to the broth.
* Add a few drops of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
* Include some chopped mushrooms or spinach for added nutrients.
* You can use a whisk instead of a fork to create a finer egg drop.
Recipe 8: Ramen Carbonara
A fun twist on a classic pasta dish! This Ramen Carbonara is creamy, savory, and surprisingly easy to make.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 packet Maruchan Gold Ramen (any flavor, Chicken or Pork works well)
* 1 cup water
* 2 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
* 1 egg yolk
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 2 tablespoons heavy cream
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Ramen:** Cook the Maruchan Gold Ramen noodles according to package directions. Drain, reserving about 1/4 cup of the cooking water.
2. **Prepare the Sauce:** In a bowl, whisk together the egg yolk, Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, and black pepper.
3. **Assemble the Carbonara:** Immediately add the drained ramen noodles to the bowl with the egg mixture. Toss quickly to coat the noodles. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved cooking water to thin it out.
4. **Add Bacon and Serve:** Stir in the crumbled bacon. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Make sure to work quickly so the egg yolk doesn’t scramble from the heat of the noodles.
* Use pancetta instead of bacon for a more authentic carbonara flavor.
* Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
* Substitute the Parmesan cheese with Pecorino Romano cheese.
* If you don’t have heavy cream, you can use half-and-half or milk, but the sauce will be less rich.
Recipe 9: Peanut Butter Ramen
Don’t knock it until you try it! Peanut butter adds a creamy, nutty richness to ramen that is surprisingly delicious.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 packet Maruchan Gold Ramen (Chicken or Beef flavor)
* 1 cup water
* 1 tablespoon peanut butter (creamy or chunky)
* 1 tablespoon soy sauce
* 1 teaspoon sesame oil
* 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
* Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
* Chopped green onions (for garnish)
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Ramen:** In a saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Add the Maruchan Gold Ramen noodles and cook according to package directions.
2. **Add Flavor and Peanut Butter:** Stir in the flavor packet from the ramen. Add the peanut butter, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until the peanut butter is melted and the sauce is smooth.
3. **Assemble and Serve:** Pour the peanut butter ramen into a bowl. Garnish with chopped green onions.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use a natural peanut butter for a healthier option.
* Add a squeeze of lime juice for acidity.
* Add some shredded carrots or bean sprouts for added crunch and nutrients.
* Substitute the peanut butter with almond butter or cashew butter.
* Add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for sweetness.
Recipe 10: Italian Ramen
This fusion dish combines the comforting flavors of Italian cuisine with the convenience of ramen.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 packet Maruchan Gold Ramen (Chicken or Beef Flavor)
* 1 cup water
* 1/4 cup marinara sauce
* 1/4 cup cooked ground beef or Italian sausage
* 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
* 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
* Grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
* Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Ramen:** In a saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Add the Maruchan Gold Ramen noodles and cook according to package directions.
2. **Add Sauce and Meat:** Stir in the marinara sauce, cooked ground beef or Italian sausage, and Italian seasoning.
3. **Melt the Cheese:** Reduce the heat to low and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the ramen. Cover the saucepan and let the cheese melt.
4. **Assemble and Serve:** Pour the Italian ramen into a bowl. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use your favorite marinara sauce.
* Add sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or onions to the sauce.
* Substitute the ground beef or sausage with cooked chicken or Italian meatballs.
* Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
* Use a blend of mozzarella and provolone cheese for a more complex flavor.
Beyond the Recipes: Tips for Perfecting Your Maruchan Gold Ramen Creations
* **Don’t Overcook the Noodles:** Nobody likes mushy ramen. Cook the noodles just until they’re tender but still have a bit of bite.
* **Adjust the Broth:** Taste the broth as you go and adjust the seasonings to your liking. Add more soy sauce for saltiness, chili garlic sauce for spice, or lime juice for acidity.
* **Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment:** These recipes are just a starting point. Get creative and try different combinations of ingredients.
* **Garnish Generously:** A generous garnish of green onions, sesame seeds, and other toppings adds flavor, texture, and visual appeal.
* **Use High-Quality Ingredients:** While Maruchan Gold is affordable, using high-quality ingredients for your additions will elevate the overall flavor of your dish.
Maruchan Gold Ramen: Your Affordable Culinary Adventure Awaits
Maruchan Gold Ramen is more than just a quick and easy meal; it’s a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. With a few simple ingredients from Walmart, you can transform a humble packet of instant noodles into a satisfying and delicious dish. So, ditch the plain broth, grab your favorite flavor of Maruchan Gold, and start experimenting! You might just surprise yourself with the amazing ramen creations you can come up with.