Ramen Coleslaw Recipe

Coleslaw mix: A pre-packaged mix of shredded cabbage and carrots, providing a crunchy base for the salad.

Ramen noodles: Instant noodles that are crushed and added for texture; discard the seasoning packets.

Sunflower seeds: Adds a nutty flavor and extra crunch to the coleslaw.

Sliced almonds: Thinly sliced almonds that contribute a subtle nutty taste and crunch.

Green onions: Chopped for a mild onion flavor that complements the salad.

Vegetable oil: Used as a base for the dressing, providing a neutral flavor.

White vinegar: Adds acidity and tanginess to the dressing.

Sugar: Balances the acidity of the vinegar with sweetness.

Soy sauce: Adds a savory umami flavor to the dressing.

To enhance the texture and flavor of this ramen coleslaw, toast the sliced almonds and sunflower seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until they are golden brown and fragrant. This step adds a delightful crunch and a deeper, nutty flavor to the dish.

• coleslaw mix - Substitute with shredded cabbage and carrots: Shredded cabbage and carrots provide a similar texture and flavor profile to pre-packaged coleslaw mix.

• crushed ramen noodles - Substitute with crushed rice noodles: Crushed rice noodles offer a similar crunch and can be a gluten-free alternative.

• sunflower seeds - Substitute with pumpkin seeds: Pumpkin seeds provide a similar nutty flavor and crunch, and can be a good alternative for those with sunflower seed allergies.

• sliced almonds - Substitute with chopped cashews: Chopped cashews offer a similar texture and a slightly sweeter flavor, which can complement the coleslaw well.

• chopped green onions - Substitute with chopped chives: Chopped chives provide a similar mild onion flavor and can be used as a direct substitute.

• vegetable oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil is a healthier alternative with a rich flavor that works well in dressings.

• white vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar has a similar acidity and adds a slight fruity note to the dressing.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey provides a natural sweetness and can add a bit more depth of flavor to the dressing.

• soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce and offers a similar umami flavor.

• To keep your ramen coleslaw fresh and crunchy, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help maintain the crispness of the coleslaw mix and prevent the ramen noodles from getting soggy.

• If you plan to enjoy the coleslaw over several days, consider storing the dressing separately. Mix the vegetable oil, white vinegar, sugar, and soy sauce in a jar or small container and refrigerate. Combine the dressing with the coleslaw mix just before serving to keep everything fresh.

• For longer storage, you can freeze the coleslaw mix without the dressing. Place the coleslaw mix, sunflower seeds, sliced almonds, and chopped green onions in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you're ready to serve, thaw the mix in the refrigerator and add the freshly prepared dressing.

• If you have leftover ramen coleslaw that has already been dressed, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, be aware that the ramen noodles may lose their crunch over time.

• To refresh the coleslaw after refrigeration, you can add a handful of freshly crushed ramen noodles and a sprinkle of additional sunflower seeds or sliced almonds just before serving. This will bring back some of the original texture and crunch.

• When freezing, label your containers with the date to keep track of freshness. Frozen coleslaw mix can be stored for up to 1 month. Always thaw in the refrigerator to maintain the best texture and flavor.

• Avoid freezing the dressing, as the vegetable oil and vinegar may separate and affect the overall taste and consistency. Instead, prepare the dressing fresh when you're ready to serve the coleslaw.

• For a quick and easy method, place the ramen coleslaw in a microwave-safe dish. Cover it with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small corner open to vent. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.

• If you prefer a more even and gentle reheating, use a skillet. Heat a small amount of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the coleslaw mix and stir frequently for about 3-5 minutes until warmed through. This method helps maintain the crunchiness of the sliced almonds and sunflower seeds.

• For those who enjoy a slightly toasted flavor, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the ramen coleslaw evenly on a baking sheet. Cover with aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Bake for about 10 minutes, stirring halfway through. This method can enhance the flavors of the crushed ramen noodles and chopped green onions.

• If you have a steamer, place the ramen coleslaw in a heatproof bowl and set it in the steamer basket. Steam for about 5 minutes, or until heated through. This method keeps the coleslaw mix moist and fresh.

• For a stovetop method, use a double boiler. Place the ramen coleslaw in the top part of the double boiler over simmering water. Cover and heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This gentle method preserves the texture and flavor of the soy sauce dressing.

• Large mixing bowl: Used to combine the coleslaw mix, crushed ramen noodles, sunflower seeds, sliced almonds, and chopped green onions.

• Separate bowl: Used to whisk together the vegetable oil, white vinegar, sugar, and soy sauce for the dressing.

• Whisk: Used to mix the dressing ingredients until well combined.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure out the vegetable oil, white vinegar, and sugar accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the soy sauce accurately.

• Knife: Used to chop the green onions.

• Cutting board: Provides a surface to chop the green onions.

• Spatula or large spoon: Used to toss the coleslaw mixture with the dressing to coat evenly.

Pre-crush the ramen: Crush the ramen noodles in advance and store them in an airtight container to save time during preparation.

Use pre-sliced almonds: Purchase pre-sliced almonds to avoid the hassle of slicing them yourself.

Pre-mix the dressing: Whisk together the vegetable oil, white vinegar, sugar, and soy sauce ahead of time and refrigerate until needed.

Chop green onions in bulk: Chop a large batch of green onions and store them in the fridge for quick access.

Buy coleslaw mix: Using a pre-packaged coleslaw mix eliminates the need for chopping cabbage and carrots.