Healthy Mongolian Meatball Ramen Recipe

Mongolian Meatball Ramen is a comforting and hearty dish, typically packed with savory flavors and tender meatballs. This healthier version uses lean meat for the meatballs, whole-grain noodles, and a lighter broth to keep the delicious flavors without the excess fat and calories.

Ingredients (4 servings)

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb (450g) lean ground turkey or chicken
• 1/4 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
• 1 egg (or 1 flax egg for a vegan option)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch ginger, grated
• 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp green onions, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

For the Broth:

• 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (or coconut aminos for a healthier option)
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1-inch ginger, grated
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

For the Ramen & Garnish:

• 4 oz whole-wheat ramen noodles (or zucchini noodles for a low-carb option)
• 1/2 cup bok choy, chopped
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
• Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Make the Meatballs – In a large bowl, mix together the ground turkey (or chicken), breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, green onions, cilantro, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Shape the mixture into small meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter).
2. Cook the Meatballs – Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and cook the meatballs in batches, turning occasionally, for 7-10 minutes until fully cooked. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Broth – In a large pot, combine the broth, soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes.
4. Cook the Noodles – In a separate pot, cook the whole-wheat ramen noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Assemble the Ramen – Divide the cooked noodles into bowls. Pour the hot broth over the noodles, and then top with the meatballs. Add bok choy, green onions, sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro as garnish.
6. Serve – Serve the Mongolian meatball ramen hot and enjoy the healthy twist on this classic comfort food!

Why This Version is Healthier

Lean protein with turkey or chicken meatballs
Uses whole wheat noodles for added fiber
Lower-sodium broth for a healthier option
Packed with vegetables like bok choy for extra nutrients

This Mongolian Meatball Ramen brings all the flavors of your favorite dish, but with a lighter, healthier twist that’s perfect for a cozy, nutritious meal!