MY Brother Butter Ramen Recipe
MY BROTHER BUTTER RAMEN RECIPE is a easy Japanese recipe that serves 1. 290 calories per serving. Recipe by Jennifer Ngo on YouTube.
Prep: 2 min | Cook: 6 min | Total: 13 min
Cost: $0.60 total, $0.60 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon Unsalted Butter (Melted in the pot)
- 1 pack Instant Ramen Noodles (Any brand, about 85 g)
- 1 packet Ramen Seasoning Packet (Included with the noodle pack)
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley (Finely chopped)
- 2 cups Water (For boiling the noodles)
Instructions
Melt Butter
Place the pot over medium heat and add the butter. Let it melt until it becomes a light golden liquid, but do not let it brown.
Time: PT1M
Temperature: Medium heat
Boil Water
Add 2 cups of water to the pot and increase the heat to high. Bring the water to a rolling boil.
Time: PT2M
Temperature: High heat
Cook Noodles
Add the ramen noodles to the boiling water. Cook for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are al dente.
Time: PT3M
Temperature: Medium‑high heat
Add Seasoning
Turn off the heat and stir in the ramen seasoning packet until fully dissolved.
Time: PT30S
Garnish and Serve
Transfer the ramen to a bowl, sprinkle the chopped parsley on top, and enjoy immediately.
Time: PT1M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 290
- Protein
- 6 g
- Carbohydrates
- 40 g
- Fat
- 12 g
- Fiber
- 2 g
Dietary info: Vegetarian
Allergens: Dairy, Gluten
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Unsalted Butter: Margarine, Olive oil (use half the amount)
- Instead of Instant Ramen Noodles: Any instant noodle brand, Fresh ramen noodles
- Instead of Ramen Seasoning Packet: Soy sauce, Miso paste
- Instead of Fresh Parsley: Green onions, Cilantro
Equipment Needed
- Pot
- Stove
- Wooden Spoon
- Bowl
- Knife
- Cutting Board
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Melt the butter without letting it brown.
- Cook the noodles just to al dente; overcooking makes them mushy.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use unsalted butter so you can control the salt level with the seasoning packet.
- Add a tiny drizzle of soy sauce for extra umami without extra salt.
- For a richer broth, replace half the water with low‑sodium chicken or vegetable stock.
Troubleshooting
Noodles are mushy.
Reduce cooking time by 30 seconds and test for al dente earlier.
Butter burns and turns brown.
Lower the heat to medium‑low and watch closely; remove from heat as soon as it melts.
Seasoning doesn’t dissolve fully.
Stir vigorously while the noodles are still hot; you can add a splash of hot water to help.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 day; reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Freezer: Not recommended – texture of noodles changes after freezing.
Room temperature: Best eaten immediately; will become soggy if left out.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Measure the butter and pre‑melt it in a microwave-safe cup.
- Finely chop the parsley and store in a small container in the fridge.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of ramen in Japanese cuisine?
Ramen originated in China and was introduced to Japan in the early 20th century. Over time it became a beloved fast‑food staple, with regional variations like shoyu, miso, and tonkotsu broth defining local flavors.
What are traditional regional variations of ramen in Japan?
Key regional styles include Tokyo’s soy‑based shoyu ramen, Sapporo’s miso ramen, Hakata’s rich pork‑bone tonkotsu ramen, and Kitakata’s thick, curly noodles in a soy‑based broth.
How is instant butter ramen traditionally served in Japanese home cooking?
While butter isn’t a classic Japanese topping, many Japanese households add a pat of butter to instant ramen for a richer mouthfeel, especially in colder months. It’s usually served hot, directly from the pot, with a sprinkle of green onions or parsley for freshness.
What occasions or celebrations is ramen commonly associated with in Japan?
Ramen is a comfort food enjoyed year‑round, but it’s especially popular during late‑night meals, study sessions, and winter gatherings. Some ramen shops host special “Ramen Day” events to celebrate the dish.
What other Japanese dishes pair well with butter ramen?
Butter ramen pairs nicely with simple sides like gyoza, a crisp cucumber sunomono salad, or a soft boiled egg seasoned with soy sauce. A small bowl of miso soup also balances the richness.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making butter ramen?
Common errors include burning the butter, overcooking the noodles, and adding too much seasoning. Keep the heat moderate when melting butter and stop cooking the noodles as soon as they are al dente.
Why does this butter ramen recipe use butter instead of oil?
Butter adds a creamy, slightly nutty flavor that oil cannot provide, giving the broth a richer mouthfeel while still keeping the dish quick and simple.
Can I make butter ramen ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, you can prepare the noodles and butter mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently, adding a splash of water if the broth thickens.
What texture and appearance should I look for when making butter ramen?
The broth should be glossy and slightly oily from the butter, while the noodles should be firm to the bite (al dente) and not soggy. The parsley garnish adds a bright green contrast.
What does the YouTube channel Jennifer Ngo specialize in?
The YouTube channel Jennifer Ngo focuses on quick, everyday comfort food recipes, often adding simple twists to classic pantry staples for busy home cooks.
How does the YouTube channel Jennifer Ngo's approach to Japanese-inspired cooking differ from other cooking channels?
Jennifer Ngo emphasizes speed and minimal ingredients, showing how to transform instant products like ramen into slightly elevated meals with just a few extra steps, whereas many other channels focus on traditional, time‑intensive techniques.
Last updated: September 4, 2026
