The Best Substitutes for Mushrooms in Ramen

Did you ever want to know what the best substitutes for mushrooms in ramen are? It’s okay if the answer is no, because most people don’t. It’s not like Japanese ramen is known for its mushroom content, but you’d be surprised at how many people don’t know how to properly replace them.

For those of you who are unfamiliar with the term, a sub is a substitute for something else. In this case, you’re substituting the mushroom flavor in your ramen with a sub that has the same flavor. It’s not quite the same as a substitution, but it’ll do. If you’ve ever wondered what the best substitutes for mushrooms in ramen are, read on to learn more.

Dried Seaweed

Dried seaweed is a common flavoring in ramen, and it can definitely take the place of the popular mushroom. Not only is it saltier and more pungent than the herbaceous flavors of the original, but it also packs a much stronger umami flavor.

There are many different types of seaweed that can be used as a sub in ramen, each with its own unique flavor. A few of the more common ones you’ll find in ramen are kombu, wakame, and nori. While kombu is used for savory ramen, wakame is more mild in flavor and works well in a savory or sweet ramen.

Dried Shiitake Mushrooms

Similar to dried seaweed, dried shiitake mushrooms can be used in place of the original flavor in ramen. They’re less common than the seaweed, but you can still find them in many grocery stores.

These mushrooms have a more robust flavor than the original and are often paired with poultry or pork in dishes made with ramen. While the flavor is stronger than the seaweed, it’s still mild enough to pair well with many other flavors in ramen.

Fried Shallots

Fried shallots are a fantastic substitute for the nutty flavor of the original mushrooms. They’re often used in soups and stews, but you can also try frying them up with your ramen.

You can’t really mess up fried shallots, as they’re already fried, so they don’t require any additional oil to be used in your ramen. They have a very strong onion flavor, so if you’re not a fan of that, you can sub them out for the shiitake mushrooms.

Other Delicious Substitutes for Mushrooms in Ramen

If the above substitutions don’t tickle your fancy, here are a few other delicious mushrooms you can add to your ramen.

While the oyster and shiitake are the most common, you can also find porcini and enoki mushrooms in many ramen dishes. If you’re looking for something a little more savory, the shiitake and oyster pair really well with the miso or soy-based broths often found in ramen.

If you’re a vegetarian, you’re missing out on some delicious flavor. The king oyster mushroom is one of the most popular vegetarian mushrooms, and you’ll often find it in ramen dishes with bean sprouts and other traditional Chinese vegetables.

Conclusion

If you’ve ever wondered what the best substitutes for mushrooms in ramen are, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, you’ll find out what the best choices are for each flavor profile, as well as where to find them.

If you’re looking for a savory flavor, try out the shiitake or oyster mushrooms, while the sweet flavors are best paired with the enoki and porcini mushrooms. If you’re looking for a vegetarian alternative to ramen, try adding king oyster mushrooms and other vegetarian friendly mushrooms to your bowl.