Slow Cooker Curry Ramen Beef Recipe
Ramen has become a global sensation, loved for its rich flavors, satisfying textures, and versatility. This Slow Cooker Curry Ramen Beef recipe takes traditional ramen to a new level by infusing it with aromatic curry spices, tender beef, and a variety of fresh vegetables. The result is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting and Flavorful: The combination of beef, curry, and noodles creates a warm, hearty meal that’s bursting with flavor.
- Easy to Prepare: Utilizing a slow cooker means minimal hands-on time, making this recipe perfect for busy schedules.
- Customizable: You can adjust the vegetables and spice levels to suit your tastes and dietary needs.
- Great for Meal Prep: This dish stores well, making it an excellent option for meal prepping for the week.
How to Make Slow Cooker Curry Ramen Beef
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
- Trim and Cut the Beef: Start by trimming any excess fat from the beef chuck roast. Cut it into 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking.
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add a splash of oil. Once hot, add the cubed beef in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Brown the beef on all sides for about 4-5 minutes. This step is optional, but browning the beef adds a depth of flavor to the final dish.
- Transfer to Slow Cooker: Once browned, transfer the beef to the slow cooker.
Step 2: Add the Vegetables
- Prepare the Vegetables: Slice the carrots, bell peppers, and mushrooms. Mince the garlic and ginger.
- Layer the Vegetables: Add the sliced carrots, bell peppers, and mushrooms over the browned beef in the slow cooker. Add the minced garlic and ginger for an aromatic base.
Step 3: Create the Curry Broth
- Combine Broth Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the beef broth, coconut milk, curry powder, soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), and red chili flakes (if desired). Whisk together until well blended.
- Pour Over the Beef and Vegetables: Pour the curry broth mixture over the beef and vegetables in the slow cooker. Give it a gentle stir to ensure everything is well mixed.
Step 4: Cook the Dish
- Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Cooking on low will yield more tender beef, while cooking on high will work well if you’re short on time.
- Check for Doneness: About 30 minutes before serving, check the beef for tenderness. It should be easily shreddable with a fork.
Step 5: Cook the Ramen Noodles
- Prepare the Ramen: About 10 minutes before serving, cook the ramen noodles according to the package instructions in a separate pot. Do not overcook them; they should be al dente.
- Drain and Rinse: Once cooked, drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. This will prevent them from becoming mushy.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
- Add Noodles to Slow Cooker: Once the beef is tender and the broth is flavorful, add the cooked ramen noodles to the slow cooker. Gently stir to combine.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the curry ramen beef and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more curry powder, soy sauce, or lime juice to brighten the flavors.
- Garnish: Serve the curry ramen beef hot, garnished with sliced green onions for a fresh crunch.
Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Curry Ramen Beef
- Choose the Right Cut of Beef: Beef chuck roast is ideal for slow cooking due to its marbling, which breaks down during the cooking process, resulting in tender, flavorful meat.
- Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to use your favorite vegetables. Snow peas, spinach, or broccoli are great additions that can be added in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of curry powder and red chili flakes. Conversely, if you like it spicier, add more chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce when serving.
- Make it Ahead: This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it in a pot on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the curry ramen beef with lime wedges for squeezing over the top, and add fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for extra flavor. You can also offer sriracha or chili oil for those who like an extra kick.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Curry Ramen Beef recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors that brings together the best of comfort food and exotic spices. With minimal prep time and the convenience of a slow cooker, you can enjoy a hearty, aromatic dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this curry ramen beef is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the warmth and satisfaction of a delicious homemade meal with this easy recipe!
Slow Cooker Curry Ramen Beef Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons curry powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 3 cups chopped vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, snap peas, etc.)
- 2 packs of ramen noodles (discard the seasoning packets)
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
1. Sear the Beef:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches, searing them on all sides until browned (about 4-5 minutes). Transfer the seared beef to the slow cooker.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until soft. Add the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the curry powder, cumin, coriander, and turmeric, cooking for 1 more minute to toast the spices.
3. Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker:
- Pour the coconut milk, beef broth, soy sauce, fish sauce, and brown sugar into the slow cooker with the beef. Add the sautéed onion mixture and chopped vegetables, stirring to combine.
4. Cook:
- Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and easily shredded.
5. Add the Ramen Noodles:
- About 15-20 minutes before serving, stir in the ramen noodles, allowing them to cook in the broth until tender.
6. Serve:
- Once the noodles are cooked, ladle the curry ramen beef into bowls. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges for a zesty finish.