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This crockpot seafood ramen soup brings together the simplicity of slow cooking with the fresh flavors of the sea. It’s a comforting bowl perfect for busy days when you want a warm meal ready without fuss. The seafood and ramen noodles meld with a savory broth that feels both nourishing and light.
Ingredients
- One pound raw or cooked seafood choose fresh shrimp, scallops, or a mix for best texture and flavor
- Six ounces ramen noodles add these last so they stay just tender, not mushy
- Four cups broth vegetable, seafood, or chicken broth all bring a good base < homemade or low sodium store-bought works great
- Two cups water helps thin the broth for the perfect soup consistency
- Green onions or white onion green onions add mild freshness while white onions give a sweeter, deeper flavor
- Low sodium soy sauce adds umami and salt without overpowering, opt for a quality brand for best results
- Rice vinegar brightens the broth with gentle acidity
- Garlic cloves minced vital for aromatic depth and savoriness
- Minced ginger lends warmth and a touch of spice
- Chopped bok choy adds vibrant green crunch and mild bitterness
- Sliced mushrooms earthy notes complement the seafood nicely
- Shredded carrots for sweetness and color
- Sesame oil a little fattiness and nutty aroma finishes the broth
- Salt and pepper essential to season and balance flavors
- Optional red pepper flakes if you like heat, a pinch amps the flavor profile
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté the Vegetables and Aromatics:
- Add broth, water, green onions or white onion, low sodium soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, mushrooms, carrots, sesame oil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes into the slow cooker. Stir everything well to combine so the flavors meld during cooking.
- Slow Cook the Broth:
- Set the slow cooker on HIGH for 2 to 3 hours or LOW for 4 to 6 hours. This cooks the vegetables fully and infuses the broth with rich, aromatic layers.
- Add Seafood, Ramen, and Bok Choy:
- When the broth is ready, stir in the seafood, ramen noodles, and chopped bok choy. Cook uncovered for an additional 15 to 30 minutes, just until the seafood is cooked through and the noodles have softened but still hold their shape.
- Instant Pot Variation:
- Place the broth ingredients in the Instant Pot and stir well. Secure lid and seal valve. Pressure cook on high for 12 minutes, then quick release. Open lid, add seafood, ramen, and bok choy, then close lid again and set to WARM for 5 to 10 minutes to finish cooking everything gently.
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Storage Tips
Cool the soup completely before transferring it to airtight containers for the fridge. It keeps well up to 3 days. If freezing, remove noodles first and freeze broth with vegetables and seafood separately to maintain texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap bok choy for spinach or napa cabbage if preferred. Use tamari instead of soy sauce for gluten free. Any firm seafood like cod or firm white fish can replace shrimp or scallops.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a slice of crusty bread or a side of steamed dumplings to round out the meal. A drizzle of toasted sesame seeds or a splash of chili oil on top adds extra indulgence.
Cultural Context
Ramen originated in Japan and has evolved globally with countless variations. This recipe uses slow cooker convenience to marry traditional Asian flavors with easy weeknight cooking.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → What types of seafood work best in this dish?
Shrimp, scallops, or chunks of firm white fish are ideal, as they hold their texture well during cooking and complement the ramen noodles beautifully.
- → Can I substitute the broth for a different type?
Yes, vegetable, seafood, or chicken broth all work well, each adding a slightly different depth of flavor while keeping the soup rich and aromatic.
- → How can I adjust the spice level?
Adding or omitting red pepper flakes allows you to control the heat. Fresh ginger and garlic also provide warmth without overwhelming spice.
- → Is it better to use raw or cooked seafood?
Using raw seafood lets it cook gently in the broth, absorbing flavors fully. If using pre-cooked, add it later to avoid overcooking.
- → What vegetables enhance the flavor and texture?
Bok choy, mushrooms, and shredded carrots contribute freshness and variety in texture, balancing the tender seafood and soft noodles.
- → Can this dish be prepared quickly?
Yes, using an Instant Pot reduces cooking time significantly while still developing rich flavors and tender ingredients.