Name: Homemade Ramen Seasoning
Prep time: 6 min
Total time: 6 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 teaspoon onion powder; 3 chicken bouillon cubes (about 2 tablespoons); 1 teaspoon dried parsley; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; 2 teaspoons garlic powder or granulated garlic; ½ teaspoon ground cumin; ½ teaspoon ground black pepper; ½ teaspoon ground ginger

Let’s be honest — sometimes all we want is a quick bowl of hot ramen. But those little seasoning packets that come with instant noodles? They’re often way too salty, full of additives, and don’t quite hit the homemade spot.

That’s why I started mixing up my own ramen seasoning at home. This blend has all the savory, umami-packed flavors you crave, without the mystery ingredients. It’s great for a cleaner, more balanced bowl — especially when I’m cooking ramen for my nephews or just want something a little fresher for myself.

Plus, this seasoning isn’t just for soup. I sprinkle it on popcorn, roasted chickpeas, even use it as a rub for chicken before grilling. Once you have a jar of this in your pantry, you’ll find a dozen ways to use it.

Why I Love Making This Blend

There was a phase during my college years when I lived on instant noodles. And while I’ll always have a soft spot for that salty flavor bomb, these days I like knowing exactly what’s going into my food — especially if I’m making ramen for kids or adding extra toppings like boiled eggs or veggies.

This homemade ramen seasoning gives me that nostalgic flavor, but with a little more depth. I can adjust the heat, cut back the salt if I want to, and play around with the ingredients. I once added a touch of smoked paprika — and it was incredible.

Ingredients I Keep On Hand for This

Here’s what I use for my go-to ramen spice blend. These are all pantry staples in my kitchen — I don’t even need to make a store run most days.

ChickenBouillonCubes – These give the blend that deep, savory broth flavor. I usually crush them with the back of a spoon or grind them into a powder. If I’m cooking vegetarian, I just swap in a veggie bouillon cube instead.
GarlicPowder – Adds warmth and aroma.
OnionPowder – Balances the garlic and adds that base savory flavor.
DriedParsley – For a touch of color and a bit of herby brightness.
GroundCumin – Just a hint for an earthy backbone.
GroundGinger – For a subtle zing that rounds everything out.
BlackPepper – For mild heat and complexity.
KosherSalt – Helps everything pop.

If I want a spicy kick, I mix in about ¼ teaspoon of cayenne — or more if I’m feeling bold.

How I Make a Bowl of Ramen With This

This is how I whip up a quick, satisfying bowl using the homemade seasoning:

Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a small pot.
Add your favorite noodles — instant, dried, fresh — whatever you have. Boil until tender, usually around 3 minutes.
Stir in 1 tablespoon of the seasoning blend once the heat is off. The bouillon dissolves fast, and the spices bloom beautifully in the hot broth.
Pour into a bowl and top it off. I usually throw on some chopped scallions, a soft-boiled egg if I have time, and a drizzle of chili oil or sesame seeds.

It’s comfort food in 10 minutes.

Little Tips That Make a Big Difference

Crush the bouillon cubes finely – The finer they are, the better they mix. I sometimes pulse everything in a spice grinder for an even blend.
Store in a jar – I keep mine in a small glass jar with a tight lid. It stays fresh for up to 6 months if you store it in a cool, dry spot.
Don’t skip the salt – Even with bouillon, the little extra kosher salt brings balance.
Add cayenne separately if needed – I keep the base blend mild and add spice to individual servings. That way, everyone gets it the way they like.

Fun Ways I Use It Beyond Ramen

Here’s where things get fun — I started using this ramen seasoning on more than just soup:

Roasted Chickpeas – Tossed with oil and this spice mix before baking.
Popcorn – A savory upgrade with a drizzle of melted butter.
Roasted Veggies – Especially carrots, sweet potatoes, or Brussels sprouts.
Grilled Chicken – Rub it on with a bit of oil and lemon juice before cooking.
Snack Mixes – Toss it with nuts, cereal, pretzels — whatever crunchy bits you’ve got.

It’s that kind of blend that goes way beyond just one dish.

This homemade ramen seasoning has become a kitchen staple for me. I always keep a jar on the counter, and it’s the first thing I reach for when I’m making a quick bowl of noodles or need a little something savory to sprinkle over lunch. Once you try it, I think you’ll do the same.

Let me know how you use it — and don’t be surprised if it becomes your new go-to pantry mix.

Yield: 4