This dish is outrageously flavorful, with crispy edges, savory garlic, a kick of spice, and a runny yolk that becomes the sauce.
Ingredients (for 1):
· 1 pack instant ramen (discard the seasoning pack or save it for another use)
· 2 tbsp soy sauce
· 1 tbsp oyster sauce (or hoisin)
· 1 tsp chili crisp or sriracha, plus more for serving
· 1 tsp honey or brown sugar
· 2 cloves garlic, minced
· 1 tbsp butter or neutral oil
· 1 egg
· Green onion, thinly sliced (for garnish)
The 10-Minute Countdown:
Minute 1-2: Prep & Mix.
· Put a small pot of water on high heat for the noodles.
· In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, oyster sauce, chili crisp, and honey. Set aside.
· Mince your garlic and slice the green onion.
Minute 3-5: Cook Noodles & Garlic.
· Once boiling, add the ramen bricks (no seasoning). Cook for 2-3 minutes only, until just tender. Drain.
· While noodles cook, heat butter/oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
Minute 6-7: Crispy Egg.
· Crack the egg into the hot skillet. Let it cook undisturbed until the whites are set and the edges are golden and lacy (about 2 minutes). Slide onto a plate.
Minute 8-9: Build the Sauce.
· In the same skillet (no need to wash), lower heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.
· Pour in the sauce mixture—it will bubble immediately. Add the drained noodles.
Minute 10: Toss & Serve.
· Toss the noodles vigorously in the skillet for 1-2 minutes until they are coated and starting to caramelize in spots.
· Pile noodles into a bowl, top with the crispy egg, garnish with green onions and an extra dollop of chili crisp.
Why it works: You’re building layers of flavor (umami, sweet, spicy, garlicky) and using high heat for quick caramelization and texture. The runny egg yolk mixes into the noodles, creating a rich, silky sauce.
Bonus 10-Minute Ideas:
· Loaded Quesadilla: Flour tortilla with shredded cheese, black beans, rotisserie chicken, and salsa. Cook in a dry skillet until crispy. Serve with sour cream and avocado slices.
· Smashed Chickpea Salad Sandwich: Mash canned chickpeas with mayo, mustard, a squeeze of lemon, salt, and pepper. Pile onto toasted bread with lettuce and tomato.
· Upgraded Instant Ramen: Cook noodles in broth with a spoonful of miso paste. Top with a soft-boiled egg (cooked for 7 minutes while you prep), spinach, and leftover roast chicken.
The key is high heat, minimal ingredients, and no extra steps. Enjoy your delicious, lightning-fast dinner