Ramen in a Rice Cooker: Heresy or Genius?
Okay, let's talk about something potentially controversial. Something that might divide families. Ready? I'm about to confess: I cook my ramen in a rice cooker.
Yes, that's right. The appliance usually reserved for fluffy jasmine or sticky sushi rice. I use it for instant noodles. Prepare yourselves for my unpopular opinion!
I know, I know. The purists are probably clutching their pearls. They're whispering about proper noodle-cooking etiquette. But hear me out!
Why the Rice Cooker, Though?
First, it's just so darn easy. Dump everything in, press a button, walk away. This is peak laziness, and I fully embrace it.
Plus, less dishes! One pot to rule them all. And in this case, one pot to cook perfectly soggy ramen.
Don't judge me! I like my noodles soft. Sue me.
The Process (If You Dare)
Okay, so maybe you're intrigued. Maybe you're a fellow lazy cook, secretly nodding along. Here's the *highly* technical process. Are you ready?
Tear open your packet of instant ramen. Sprinkle in the flavor powder. Add the dried veggies. You know, the usual preperation.
Then, pour in water. The amount? I eyeball it. Just enough to cover the noodles.
Close the lid and press "cook." Or "white rice." Or whatever button your rice cooker has. It doesn't really matter.
Wait. This is the hardest part. Try not to think about how delicious your forbidden rice cooker ramen will be.
Once it's done, open the lid carefully (steam!). Stir. And... eat.
The Result?
Perfectly cooked (or, in my case, perfectly *over*cooked) noodles. A flavorful broth. And minimal effort. What's not to love?
Sure, the texture might be slightly different. Maybe the noodles are a tad mushier. But honestly, who cares? I really don't!
I bet Momofuku Ando, the inventor of instant ramen, would be proud of my creative interpretation. Or maybe horrified. Either way, he is now quoted in my article.
The Pushback
I anticipate criticism. I know people will say, "But that's not how ramen is supposed to be made!"
And to them, I say: "Okay, boomer." Just kidding! (Mostly).
But seriously, who decided there was only one right way to cook instant noodles? Where is the fun in life, really? This isn't about haute cuisine. This is about a quick, easy, and satisfying meal.
The Verdict
So, can you cook ramen in a rice cooker? Absolutely. Should you? That's up to you.
If you're a purist, maybe stick to the stovetop. But if you're looking for a shortcut, give it a try. You might be surprised.
Just don't blame me if your rice cooker starts smelling like chicken flavor. And also, don't blame me if you think this method is for you.
The rice cooker ramen method is my life hack!
I rest my case. Ramen in a rice cooker: guilty as charged. And proud of it.
Now, if you excuse me, I'm going to go make some. This article is making me hungry!