The Secret Ingredient That Turns Any Box of Pasta Into Homemade Ramen
Spicy Ramen Bowl
As an instant ramen aficionado, I always have multiple packs on hand. It's not that I don't enjoy a good bowl of ramen at a local shop with the broth and noodles made from scratch, or that I don't have the dedication to make homemade ramen, but it's always nice to have a quick and easy option up your sleeve.
But if you don't happen to have any instant ramen in the house, a satisfying brothy bowl is still within reach. According to enthusiastic home cooks over on Reddit, what you need is likely already sitting in your pantry right now: dried pasta and—wait for it— baking soda.
Related: 40 Slurp-Worthy Ramen Bowls to Eat on Repeat
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How to Make Ramen Noodles with Pasta and Baking Soda
If you know how to boil water, you're halfway there already! For every liter of boiling water, add one tablespoon of baking soda. Cook the pasta according to package directions, drain—and use the noodles in your favorite ramen recipe.
Related: 17 Best Instant Ramen Hacks
The Science Behind Making Ramen Noodles with Pasta and Baking Soda
The addition of alkaline baking soda changes the pH of the water. That chemical change manipulates the starches in the pasta and alters the pasta's texture and color so it resembles traditional ramen noodles. Redditors who have tried the hack attest that the faux ramen noodles are definitely chewier and bouncier than standard pasta.
Related: Baking Soda vs. Baking Powder—What's the Difference Between Them, Anyway?
The Best Homemade Ramen Recipes
Ready to try this hack that's as instant as instant ramen? Here are some of our favorite ramen recipes so you can give it a shot.
