Can Ramen Be Healthier? You Bet!
By Donna Stark
I believe they cost a quarter. Maybe more in some markets, but if that's the case, it would only be a difference of a few pennies here or there. Regardless, there is no denying that it can be a very inexpensive meal, even if it may not be the healthiest. But we will get to that later because right now, we are going to focus on what it is. That hot broth, those curly noodles the meal that saves so many penny-pinching college students from starvation and the one that hits the spot on a chilly day. Got any guesses? Well, it's ramen, and it's oh-so good.
Dressing up Your Ramen
You don't need to be a starving student to appreciate a hot bowl of ramen, but you also don't need to leave it as it is. Hot water and a spice packet aren't very imaginative are they? But you can turn yours from a bowl of so-so noodles to an inspired meal worthy of praise and admiration. On top of that, with just a few tweaks during the cooking process, you can also get some extra nutrition into your body quite easily! Take a look at the following suggestions.
- Add an egg - Hard boiled, soft boiled, medium boiled, maybe even scrambled! Adding an egg to your bowl of ramen is a great way to sneak in some extra protein.
- Add some frozen vegetables - Still needing to get your daily requirement of vegetables in? Here's your chance! Toss in a cup of your favorite frozen variety for added nutrients, flavor, and texture.
- Add some green - Fresh greens are an excellent source of fiber and Vitamins A, C, and K, so start experimenting today! Spinach, kale, and bok choy are great options here.
- Add some chicken - In addition to increasing your protein intake for the day, adding some pre-cooked chicken to your bowl of ramen will also help make it more flavorful and filling for you.
- Add some kick - Fresh is the way to go here, but if you don't have any onions, peppers, or garlic sitting around the house, then just head on over to your spice drawer. Cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes are a great way to kick up the heat!
From Boring to Wow!
The best thing about ramen is that it can be dressed up in so many ways! So get creative! Try new things and have fun with it. And if you don't like what you create, no problem! You know you have more packages sitting in your pantry ready for the next round of cooking.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Farmington, Utah.