How TO Make Birria Ramen
HOW TO MAKE BIRRIA RAMEN! is a easy Japanese recipe that serves 1. 660 calories per serving. Recipe by Cooking With Kiona on YouTube.
Prep: 7 min | Cook: 16 min | Total: 28 min
Cost: $7.05 total, $7.05 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 package Shin Ramen Noodles (any brand of instant ramen; includes flavor and vegetable packets)
- 1 package Trader Joe's Beef Bera (pre‑cooked beef strips, about 8 oz)
- 2 cup Chicken Broth (low‑sodium preferred)
- 0.5 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (freshly shredded)
- 0.25 cup Onion (diced small)
- 1 piece Jalapeño (thinly sliced; remove seeds for less heat)
- 2 tablespoon Fresh Cilantro (roughly chopped)
- 1 wedge Lime (cut into wedges for serving)
Instructions
Gather Ingredients and Equipment
Collect all ingredients, a microwave, a medium saucepan, cutting board, knife, measuring cup and a serving bowl.
Time: PT2M
Prepare the Beef Bera
Remove the outer packaging of the Trader Joe's Beef Bera, then puncture the inner film with a fork or knife.
Time: PT1M
First Microwave Heating
Place the sealed Beef Bera in the microwave on high for 2 minutes 30 seconds.
Time: PT2M30S
Stir and Second Microwave Heating
Carefully remove the film, stir the beef, reseal the film, and microwave again on high for another 2 minutes 30 seconds.
Time: PT2M30S
Heat Beef in Saucepan
Transfer the heated Beef Bera to a medium saucepan and cook over medium heat for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Time: PT3M
Temperature: Medium heat
Shred the Beef
Remove the beef from the saucepan, place it on a cutting board and shred it into bite‑size strips using two forks or your hands.
Time: PT2M
Make the Broth
Return the saucepan to the stove, add 2 cups of chicken broth, the Shin Ramen flavor packet and the vegetable packet. Stir until dissolved and bring to a rolling boil.
Time: PT5M
Temperature: High heat
Cook the Ramen Noodles
Add the ramen noodles to the boiling broth, reduce heat to a gentle simmer, and cook according to the package instructions (usually 3 minutes).
Time: PT3M
Temperature: Simmer
Assemble and Serve
Ladle the noodles and broth into a serving bowl. Top with shredded mozzarella, shredded beef, diced onion, sliced jalapeño, chopped cilantro and a lime wedge.
Time: PT2M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 660
- Protein
- 30 g
- Carbohydrates
- 70 g
- Fat
- 25 g
- Fiber
- 3 g
Dietary info: Can be made gluten‑free with GF ramen noodles, Can be dairy‑free by omitting mozzarella or using a plant‑based cheese
Allergens: Dairy, Gluten, Soy
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Shin Ramen Noodles: any instant ramen
- Instead of Trader Joe's Beef Bera: pre‑cooked shredded beef, leftover roast beef
- Instead of Chicken Broth: vegetable broth, water with bouillon cube
- Instead of Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: shredded cheddar, shredded provolone
- Instead of Onion: green onion, shallot
- Instead of Jalapeño: serrano pepper, red chili flakes
- Instead of Fresh Cilantro: Thai basil, parsley
- Instead of Lime: lemon wedge
Equipment Needed
- Microwave
- Fork or Knife
- Medium‑sized Saucepan
- Cutting Board
- Chef's Knife
- Measuring Cup
- Soup Spoon
- Serving Bowl
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Puncturing the Beef Bera film correctly to avoid steam buildup.
- Microwaving the beef in two 2½‑minute intervals for even heating.
- Shredding the beef while still warm for optimal texture.
- Adding the ramen flavor and vegetable packets to the broth for authentic taste.
- Cooking the noodles just to al dente to prevent mushiness.
Chef Tips from the Video
- For extra umami, stir in a teaspoon of miso paste just before serving.
- Toast the jalapeño slices quickly in a dry pan for a smoky flavor.
Troubleshooting
Beef Bera is dry after microwaving.
Add a splash (1‑2 Tbsp) of water before the second microwave cycle and cover loosely with a microwave‑safe lid.
Noodles become mushy.
Reduce cooking time by 30 seconds and test for al dente; rinse briefly with hot water after cooking.
Broth is too salty.
Dilute with an extra ¼ cup of low‑sodium chicken broth or water.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store leftover broth and shredded beef in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Beef Bera can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw before reheating.
Room temperature: Do not leave the assembled ramen at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare and shred the Beef Bera ahead of time; store in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Broth can be made in bulk and frozen in portions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of Beef Ramen in Japanese‑American cuisine?
Beef ramen blends traditional Japanese ramen broth with American convenience foods like instant noodles and pre‑cooked beef. It reflects the post‑World War II era when Japanese immigrants adapted ramen to fit busy Western lifestyles, creating a fast, filling comfort dish.
What are the traditional regional variations of ramen that influence this Beef Ramen recipe?
Classic Japanese ramen varies by region—Tokyo shoyu, Sapporo miso, and Hakata tonkotsu. This Beef Ramen borrows the shoyu‑style flavor packet from Shin Ramen, while adding beef, a protein more common in Western adaptations, creating a hybrid style.
How is Beef Ramen traditionally served in Japan versus the version shown by YouTube channel Cooking With Kiona?
In Japan, ramen is typically served with sliced pork chashu, soft‑boiled egg, nori and bamboo shoots. Cooking With Kiona’s version swaps pork for Trader Joe's Beef Bera, adds mozzarella cheese, jalapeño and lime for a fusion twist, making it spicier and richer.
What occasions or celebrations is Beef Ramen traditionally associated with in Japanese‑American households?
Ramen, including quick‑cook versions like Beef Ramen, is often enjoyed as a late‑night snack, a comfort meal after work, or during casual gatherings such as game nights and movie marathons in Japanese‑American families.
What other Japanese‑American dishes pair well with Beef Ramen from Cooking With Kiona?
Side dishes like edamame, pickled cucumber (tsukemono), or a simple seaweed salad complement the rich broth. For a fuller meal, serve with a Japanese‑style chicken karaage or tempura vegetables.
What makes Beef Ramen special or unique in Japanese‑American cuisine?
The combination of instant ramen flavor packets with pre‑cooked Beef Bera and melted mozzarella creates a creamy, cheesy twist not found in traditional Japanese ramen, highlighting the inventive spirit of Japanese‑American home cooking.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Beef Ramen at home?
Common errors include over‑cooking the noodles, which makes them mushy, and overheating the Beef Bera, which can dry it out. Also, forgetting to add the flavor and vegetable packets will result in a bland broth.
Why does this Beef Ramen recipe use two short microwave intervals for the Beef Bera instead of a single longer one?
Two shorter intervals allow steam to escape after the first heating, preventing the film from bursting and ensuring the beef heats evenly without becoming rubbery.
Can I make Beef Ramen ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes. Cook the broth and shred the beef ahead of time, store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the broth, add fresh noodles, and top with cheese and fresh garnishes just before serving.
What does the YouTube channel Cooking With Kiona specialize in?
The YouTube channel Cooking With Kiona focuses on quick, approachable home‑cooking videos that blend comfort food with simple, budget‑friendly ingredients, often featuring Asian‑inspired dishes and creative twists.
How does the YouTube channel Cooking With Kiona's approach to Japanese‑American cooking differ from other cooking channels?
Cooking With Kiona emphasizes minimal prep, using readily available grocery items like Trader Joe's products, and adds unique flavor twists such as cheese and lime, whereas many other channels stick to more traditional or elaborate techniques.
Last updated: August 21, 2026
