Who doesn't love a warm bowl of ramen on a cold night or the morning after having one too many drinks? The broth, the noodles, the veggies, it's all so comforting. But have you ever thought about adding some hot sauce to that bowl of ramen?
If you haven't... you should! It can take your ramen to a whole new level of deliciousness. We're not going to just leave you hanging though. We've put together a collection of the best hot sauces and other spicy alternatives to add to your bowl of ramen.
Let's get right into it!
Can I Put Hot Sauce in Ramen?
First and foremost let's chat quickly about whether or not hot sauce belongs in ramen. From our point of view... it absolutely does! Adding hot sauce to your ramen is a simple way to intensify the heat and bring new flavor profiles to your dish.
You just want to make sure the hot sauce (or chili paste/chili pepper) you choose complements the other flavors in your soup.
Don't just take our word on it either. Ramen (aka noodles in a soupy broth) started in the late 19th or early 20th Century in Japan... where they also enjoyed making it spicy!
What Type of Sauces Go Well in Ramen?
Now let's talk about the specific types of hot sauces and spicy options that pair well with ramen. When it comes to choosing a hot sauce for ramen, you want something with depth of flavor, not just heat.
We recommend looking for a hot sauce that has some acidity and umami notes to balance out the rich broth. However, the possibilities are endless with so many amazing craft hot sauces available.
Best Hot Sauces for Ramen:
Sriracha: It's a classic for a reason, it adds just the right amount of heat and tanginess. Plus, it's readily available almost anywhere.
Garlic Scorpion: If you want a garlic flavor with that extra heat, this hot sauce is for you.
Tabasco: Another classic, this hot sauce has a vinegar-forward flavor that adds a nice tang to your ramen.
Other Spicy Alternatives:
Outside of hot sauces, you can also use other alternatives that can add both amazing flavors and spice to your ramen.
Gochujang: This Korean chili paste is a great option for those looking for a more complex flavor with some sweetness and smokiness.
Chili Flakes: A pantry staple that can easily be used in moderation to sprinkle your ramen with an extra heat kick.
Broke Da Mont: This Hawaiian hot sauce is perfect for those who want a bit of tropical flair.
Sambal: Offers a spicier and tangier flavor, making it an excellent choice for those who want a bit of kick.
Plain Chili Peppers: Whether fresh or dried, chili peppers can add a whole new level of heat and flavor to your ramen.
How Much Hot Sauce to Put In Ramen?
As with most things, when it comes to adding hot sauce to your ramen, it's all about personal preference. Some people like a subtle kick while others want to feel the burn.
Start with a small amount and taste as you go until you find your desired level of heat. Keep in mind that some hot sauces can be quite spicy, so add slowly and adjust as needed.
Remember, you can always add more hot sauce, but you can't take it out once it's in your broth. A good rule of thumb is to start with one teaspoon for a bowl of ramen and add more if needed.
If you do overdo it with the heat in your ramen, don't panic. You may still be able to save it. There are ways to tone down spicy foods and sauces!
Find Your Favorite
Spice up your ramen with any of these hot sauces and take it to the next level. Remember, start with small doses and build up as necessary until you find the perfect level of spice for you. Although we think the sauces and condiments we listed at the best for ramen, there are still plenty of other options out there.
Also don't be afraid to experiment with different hot sauces, and spices, to find your perfect ramen flavor. Everyone's tastes and preferences are different, so experience and find what you like the most!