Ramen Recipes: The Ultimate Guide to Shrimp Ramen & Perfect Wine Pairings

Ramen Recipes: Elevate Shrimp Ramen with Perfect Wine Pairings

Few comfort foods spark as much excitement as a steaming bowl of ramen. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting your ramen journey, exploring ramen recipes opens up a world of flavor, texture, and creativity. But what if you could make that bowl even more unforgettable? Enter the art of wine pairing. In this guide, you'll master an irresistible shrimp ramen, learn how to match it with wines available at your favorite U.S. retailers, and discover why ramen and wine is the culinary duo you never knew you needed.

About This Dish: The Story and Soul of Ramen

Ramen’s journey began in China but found its spiritual home in Japan, where it evolved into a beloved, endlessly customizable staple. Traditionally, ramen is a noodle soup featuring a deeply flavorful broth, springy noodles, and a variety of toppings—each bowl telling its own regional story. From the creamy pork-rich tonkotsu ramen recipe to the lighter, soy-scented shoyu and the miso-based classics, ramen recipes are a canvas for both tradition and innovation.

In the United States, ramen has become a culinary phenomenon: from bustling ramen shops in Los Angeles and New York to creative ramen noodle recipes made at home. Americans have embraced ramen’s multicultural roots, adding their own twists—think spicy broths, unique proteins, and diverse toppings. The dish is beloved for its umami-rich broth, satisfying noodles, and bold garnishes, making it a perfect match for those who appreciate complex, layered flavors.

What sets this particular shrimp ramen apart is its blend of Japanese technique and American accessibility. Using easy-to-find ingredients like tiger shrimp and salmon, this recipe delivers deep, savory flavors in under an hour. Whether you’re craving classic ramen soup or seeking easy ramen recipes to impress at home, this dish strikes the perfect balance of approachability and authenticity.

Key Ingredients & Their Role in the Bowl (and the Glass)

Great ramen recipes always start with three pillars: broth, noodles, and toppings. This shrimp ramen celebrates the following ingredients:

• Tiger Shrimp (Prawns): These plump, sweet shrimp bring oceanic umami and a succulent bite. Searing them in butter adds richness, making them a show-stopping protein perfect for wine pairing. Their slightly briny flavor loves crisp, aromatic whites and lighter reds.
• Fresh Salmon: Salmon’s fatty, silky texture deepens the dish’s flavor and adds healthy omega-3s. Lightly seared, it introduces a savory, almost creamy component that complements both the shrimp and the broth.
• Broth (Fish Stock, Soy Sauce, Sesame Oil): The heart and soul of ramen soup. A fish stock base, enriched with soy and sesame oil, creates a savory, umami-packed liquid that ties the bowl together. Soy sauce provides saltiness and depth; sesame oil lends nutty, toasted notes.
• Rice Noodles: While wheat-based ramen noodles are traditional, rice noodles make this recipe gluten-friendly and soak up the flavors of the broth beautifully. Their smooth, slightly chewy texture offers a satisfying base.
• Eggs: Soft-boiled eggs add creaminess and visual appeal. Their rich yolk acts as a natural sauce, enhancing the broth’s body.
• Spring Onions & Red Chili: These toppings add freshness, color, and a mild spicy kick, balancing the dish’s richness. They also introduce subtle green and heat notes that play well with aromatic whites or floral reds.
• Butter, Soy Sauce, Sesame Oil: Butter brings a French-inspired richness; soy sauce and sesame oil are pillars of Japanese flavor, both critical for balancing umami and aroma.

Each of these ingredients offers a unique flavor profile, making this shrimp ramen a playground for wine lovers. The umami-rich broth, succulent seafood, and bright garnishes create endless pairing possibilities—from vibrant whites to elegant, low-tannin reds.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 12 (approx. 300 g) Shrimp (tiger prawns, peeled and deveined)
• 200 g Fresh salmon fillet (skinless)
• 2 large Eggs
• 200 g Rice noodles
• 1 (or 1 tbsp fish stock) Fish stock cube
• 4 cups Water
• 4 (thinly sliced) Spring onions (green onions)
• 1 (thinly sliced) Red chili
• 1 tbsp Butter
• 2 tbsp Soy sauce
• 1 tbsp Sesame oil
• to taste Salt
• to taste Ground black pepper

Instructions:

1. Prepare the mise-en-place: Peel and devein the tiger prawns if not already done. Cut the salmon into bite-sized pieces. Slice the spring onions and red chili thinly. Set aside.
2. Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the eggs and cook for 6-7 minutes for soft-boiled eggs. Remove and place in ice water. Peel and halve the eggs once cool.
3. In a medium pot, bring 4 cups of water to a simmer. Add the fish stock cube and stir until dissolved. Add soy sauce and sesame oil. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
4. In a separate pot, cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside.
5. In a large frying pan, melt 1 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Sear the shrimp for 2 minutes on each side until pink and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
6. Using the same frying pan, lightly sear the salmon pieces for 1-2 minutes on each side until just cooked. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
7. To assemble the ramen bowls, divide the cooked rice noodles into 4 bowls. Ladle the hot broth over the noodles. Arrange the shrimp, salmon, halved eggs, sliced spring onions, and red chili on top.
8. Drizzle a small amount of sesame oil over each bowl for added flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 420 kcal
• Protein: 31.0g
• Fat: 12.0g
• Carbohydrates: 45.0g
• Salt: 2.8g

Dietary Information:

Contains gluten, Dairy-free, Nut-free

Perfect Wine Pairings: What Wine Goes with Ramen Recipes?

Ramen may seem like classic comfort food, but with the right wine, it transforms into a restaurant-worthy experience. The trick is to match the broth’s umami, the seafood’s delicate flavors, and the richness of the eggs and butter. Here’s your step-by-step wine recommendation guide for this shrimp ramen:

What Wine Goes Best with Shrimp Ramen?

Look for wines that offer bright acidity, aromatic intensity, and moderate alcohol to cleanse the palate and highlight the seafood.

• Sauvignon Blanc (California, New Zealand, France): Zesty citrus, grassy notes, and vibrant acidity make this a classic match for shrimp and salmon. Try a Napa Valley or Sonoma Sauvignon Blanc from Total Wine ($18-25), or a Loire Valley Sancerre for a slightly more mineral-driven profile.
• Riesling (Washington State, Germany): Off-dry or dry Rieslings offer a beautiful floral aroma, crisp acidity, and a touch of sweetness that balances the chili’s heat and the broth’s umami. Look for a Columbia Valley Riesling at Trader Joe’s ($10-18) or a German Kabinett for a touch of orchard fruit and spice.
• Pinot Gris / Pinot Grigio (Oregon, Italy): These wines are fresh, lively, and slightly creamy—making them perfect for seafood ramen. Oregon Pinot Gris from Willamette Valley offers notes of pear and melon, ideal for balancing the rich eggs and salmon. Find excellent options at BevMo or your local wine shop ($15-22).
• Chardonnay (Unoaked, California or Burgundy): If you love a rounder mouthfeel, try an unoaked or lightly oaked Chardonnay. Its bright citrus and apple notes pair well with shrimp, while a subtle creaminess echoes the richness of the broth and eggs. Look for Sonoma Coast or Mendocino labels at Total Wine ($20-28).
• Pinot Noir (Oregon, California): For red wine lovers, a delicate Pinot Noir with low tannins and vibrant acidity won’t overpower the seafood. Its red berry and earthy notes complement the umami of the broth and the savory edge of the salmon. Try an Oregon Pinot Noir from Willamette Valley available at Trader Joe’s or BevMo ($20-30).

What to Avoid

• Big, tannic reds (Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah): These will clash with the delicate seafood and make the broth taste metallic.
• Highly oaked whites: Heavy oak can overwhelm the fresh, clean flavors of ramen soup.

Where to Buy

• Total Wine: Extensive selection of New and Old World wines.
• Trader Joe’s: Affordable, well-curated options—especially for Pinot Noir, Riesling, and Sauvignon Blanc.
• BevMo: Great for exploring California whites and Oregon Pinot Gris.
• Local Wine Shops: Support local—many offer helpful staff and unique finds.

With Vinomat, you can discover even more pairings tailored to your taste and budget. Let the app recommend the perfect bottle for your next ramen night!

Cooking Tips & Techniques: Mastering Ramen Recipes at Home

• Mise-en-place: Prep all your ingredients before you start cooking. This makes the process smooth and ensures everything is ready when you need it.
• Egg Perfection: For classic ramen eggs, aim for a 6-7 minute boil for a slightly runny yolk. Plunge eggs into ice water to stop cooking and make peeling easier.
• Seafood Timing: Cook shrimp and salmon just until opaque. Overcooking can make shrimp rubbery and salmon dry. Searing in butter adds depth and keeps seafood juicy.
• Broth Depth: Taste and season your broth just before assembly. Soy sauce and sesame oil add essential umami and aroma; don’t be shy with them!
• Noodle Know-How: Rinse rice noodles under cold water after cooking to prevent sticking. Add to hot broth just before serving so they stay springy.
• Toppings: Slice garnishes thinly for a restaurant-style look. Sprinkle fresh spring onions and chili right before serving for crunch and color.
• Common Pitfalls:
• Using low-quality stock: The broth is the backbone of ramen recipes. Invest in a good fish stock or stock cube.
• Overcooking noodles: Always cook noodles separately and rinse to avoid mushy texture.
• Neglecting balance: Ramen is about harmony—taste as you go, and adjust seasoning for a balanced, savory finish.

Serving Suggestions: Presentation & Pairing for an Elevated Experience

• Bowl Selection: Use deep, wide bowls to showcase the noodles, broth, and toppings. Warm bowls before serving to keep ramen hot longer.
• Garnish Generously: Arrange shrimp and salmon artfully on top. Place halved eggs cut-side up for visual appeal. Scatter spring onions and red chili slices for a pop of color.
• The Wine Ritual: Serve ramen with your chosen wine slightly chilled—white wines at 45-50°F, Pinot Noir at 55°F. Offer a small carafe or glass for each guest; let them savor how the wine evolves with every bite.
• Accompaniments: A simple cucumber salad, pickled vegetables, or lightly salted edamame make perfect sides. For a festive touch, provide chopsticks and ceramic soup spoons.
• Setting the Scene: Dim the lights, play some jazz or lo-fi beats, and invite friends to build their own ramen bowls. It’s an interactive, fun way to turn dinner into an occasion.

Conclusion: Explore Ramen Recipes & Wine Pairings with Vinomat

Ready to bring restaurant-quality ramen recipes to your kitchen? This shrimp ramen is easy enough for weeknights, yet special enough for guests. With the right wine pairing, every slurp and sip becomes a celebration of flavor. Use Vinomat to find the perfect match from Total Wine, Trader Joe’s, or your local shop—and elevate your ramen soup experience. Share your creations, experiment with new wines, and discover just how exciting ramen and wine can be!