Description
Mason Jar Noodles are a quick, convenient, and customizable noodle soup prepared by layering dry noodles, flavorful seasonings, fresh vegetables, and protein inside a mason jar. With minimal prep and no traditional cooking required, this recipe lets you enjoy a comforting, delicious noodle meal by simply adding hot water and letting the ingredients hydrate. Perfect for a quick lunch or meal prep, it offers a colorful, nutritious, and portable dish that can be tailored to your taste preferences and dietary needs.
Ingredients
Scale
Noodles and Base
- 1 package of instant ramen noodles (or any noodle of your choice)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon miso paste (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ginger powder or fresh grated ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce (optional for heat)
Vegetables
- 1/4 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup baby spinach (or any leafy greens)
- 1/4 cup corn kernels (optional)
- 1/4 cup mushrooms (optional, thinly sliced)
Protein and Garnishes
- 1 boiled egg (peeled and halved, can be added before or after heating)
- 1/4 cup cooked shredded chicken (or tofu for a vegetarian option)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley
- Sesame seeds
- Chili flakes
- Lime wedges
Instructions
- Layer the Ingredients: In a mason jar, start by adding the dry ingredients first. Break the ramen noodles into smaller pieces or leave whole if they fit, placing them at the bottom of the jar.
- Add Seasonings: Add soy sauce, miso paste (if using), sesame oil, ginger powder, garlic powder, rice vinegar, and sriracha sauce (if using) over the noodles to create the broth base.
- Add Vegetables: Layer shredded carrots, sliced bell peppers, green onions, spinach, corn, mushrooms, and any other veggies on top of the noodles, leaving space for protein.
- Add Protein: Place boiled egg halves and shredded chicken or tofu on the top of the jar.
- Seal the Jar: Close the mason jar tightly with the lid and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days if not eating immediately.
- Prepare to Serve: When ready to eat, either pour the contents into a bowl or leave it in the jar if microwave-safe.
- Add Hot Water: Pour about 1 to 1 1/2 cups of hot water over the ingredients.
- Rehydrate and Stir: Stir well to combine all the ingredients and allow noodles and vegetables to soften for 3-5 minutes.
- Finish with Garnishes: If using a boiled egg, slice it in half and place on top. Add sesame seeds, fresh herbs, chili flakes, and a squeeze of lime as desired.
- Enjoy: Stir gently once more and enjoy your flavorful, homemade mason jar noodles.
Notes
- You can customize the vegetables and proteins to your liking, including tofu for a vegetarian or vegan version.
- If using a regular mason jar, ensure it is microwave-safe before heating with the jar itself.
- Use gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
- Adjust spice levels by modifying or omitting sriracha sauce and chili flakes.
- This recipe works great for meal prep; make several jars in advance and store in the fridge up to 3 days.
- For a vegan version, omit the boiled egg and chicken; add tofu or extra vegetables instead.
- The layering technique helps keep vegetables fresh and noodles dry until ready to eat.
