Top Ramen Oriental Green Beans: A Surprisingly Delicious Side Dish

There are some flavor combinations you just never expect to work, and then they completely knock your socks off. This recipe falls squarely into that category. I remember the first time a friend, bless her adventurous heart, told me about Top Ramen Oriental Green Beans. I was skeptical, to say the least. Ramen? With green beans? But one bite, and I was hooked. It’s salty, savory, and has a satisfying crunch that makes it utterly addictive. This seemingly simple dish is now a regular on my holiday table, much to the delight (and initial bewilderment) of my family.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Dietary Type: Can easily be made vegetarian (check ramen packet ingredients)

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 lbs fresh green beans
• 2 (3 ounce) packages Top Ramen noodles (Oriental flavor is recommended)
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1/3 cup toasted almonds
• Salt, as needed
• Black pepper, as needed

Equipment Needed

• Large pot for steaming
• Large nonstick frying pan
• Tongs or spatula

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing the green beans. Wash them thoroughly, trim off the ends, and cut them into 3-4 inch lengths. Uniformity in size will ensure even cooking.

2. Next, steam the green beans until they are just tender-crisp. This typically takes about 5-7 minutes. You want them to retain some bite, not become mushy. A steamer basket inserted into a pot with boiling water works perfectly. Alternatively, you can microwave them with a little water for 3-4 minutes. Drain them well after steaming.

3. While the green beans are steaming, prepare the ramen mixture. In a large nonstick frying pan, pour in the vegetable oil. Add the seasoning powder from both packages of Top Ramen noodles. The oriental flavor seasoning is highly recommended for its umami-rich taste that complements the green beans beautifully.

4. Thoroughly mix the oil and seasoning powder together until it forms a smooth paste. Do not turn on the heat yet. Waiting will prevent the spices from sticking to the bottom of the pan and potentially burning.

5. Take one packet of the Top Ramen noodles and crumble it into small pieces. Stir the crumbled noodles into the oil and seasoning mixture. Make sure the dried noodles are well coated with the oil mixture to ensure they crisp up nicely during cooking. Save the other packet of noodles for soup, another recipe, or even as a crunchy topping for salads.

6. Add the steamed green beans to the frying pan with the noodle mixture. Gently stir everything together, coating the green beans evenly with the seasoned noodles and oil.

7. Turn the heat on to medium. Stir the green beans occasionally, ensuring they don’t stick to the pan and cook evenly. Continue to cook until the green beans are heated through and the noodles are golden brown and crispy. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent burning.

8. Season with salt and black pepper to taste about halfway through the heating process. Remember that the ramen seasoning already contains salt, so taste before adding more.

9. Just before you turn off the heat, stir in the toasted almonds. This adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the dish.

10. Serve the Top Ramen Oriental Green Beans immediately. They are best enjoyed hot, when the noodles are at their crispiest.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• For a more intense flavor, try using sesame oil in addition to, or in place of, the vegetable oil. A tablespoon or two can add a fantastic depth.
• If you find the mixture is getting too dry while cooking, add a tablespoon of water or chicken broth to loosen it up.
• Toasting the almonds yourself will give you the best flavor. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly golden. Keep a close eye on them, as they can burn quickly.
• Feel free to experiment with other additions! A sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat, some sesame seeds for extra nuttiness, or a dash of soy sauce for even more umami are all great options.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This dish is best served immediately, while the noodles are still crisp. It makes a wonderful side dish for ham, roast chicken, or grilled fish. It also pairs well with Asian-inspired entrees.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, the noodles will lose some of their crispness. To reheat, gently warm in a frying pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave it, but the noodles will become softer. I don’t recommend freezing this dish.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	370.9 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	245 g	66%
Total Fat	27.2 g	41%
Saturated Fat	4.9 g	24%
Cholesterol	0 mg	0%
Sodium	338.3 mg	14%
Total Carbohydrate	28.3 g	9%
Dietary Fiber	4.8 g	19%
Sugars	2 g	7%
Protein	6.4 g	12%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Vegetarian/Vegan: While the recipe itself is naturally vegetarian, be sure to check the ingredients of the Top Ramen seasoning packets, as some varieties may contain animal-derived products. Look for a vegetarian or vegan ramen brand.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free ramen noodles and double-check the seasoning packet ingredients to ensure they are also gluten-free.
• Different Vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables, such as broccoli florets, snap peas, or even sliced carrots. Adjust the steaming time accordingly.
• Spice Level: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the vegetable oil mixture for a spicier kick. You can also use a spicy flavored ramen packet.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?
A: Yes, you can use frozen green beans. However, they may release more water during cooking, so be sure to drain them well after steaming or microwaving.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: While you can prepare the green beans and the ramen noodle mixture ahead of time, it’s best to cook the dish just before serving to ensure the noodles are crispy.

Q: I don’t have toasted almonds. Can I use regular almonds?
A: Yes, you can use regular almonds, but toasting them will bring out their flavor and add a nice crunch. You can toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat until lightly golden.

Q: Can I use a different flavor of Top Ramen?
A: While the Oriental flavor is highly recommended, you can experiment with other flavors. Just keep in mind that the taste will be different.

Q: The noodles are burning before the green beans are heated through. What should I do?
A: Reduce the heat to low and add a tablespoon of water or chicken broth to the pan. This will help to steam the green beans and prevent the noodles from burning.

Final Thoughts

Don’t let the unconventional ingredient list fool you – this Top Ramen Oriental Green Beans recipe is a surprisingly delightful side dish that will impress your family and friends. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor and texture. I encourage you to give it a try and see for yourself. And if you decide to add your own creative twist, I’d love to hear about it! Perhaps a sprinkle of sesame seeds, a drizzle of sriracha, or even a handful of dried cranberries for a sweet and savory touch. Happy cooking!