Easy make-ahead ramen noodle soup in a jar is a lunch solution that’s healthy and super-filling – and it’s fresher than the instant noodles in a cup.

“What should I pack for lunch?”

For me, the answer was soup! And noodles. But it’s tricky to pack.

Then I thought of making a homemade version of those packaged cups of noodles.

Using a mason jar, I added:

• Ramen noodles from a package
• Homemade chicken broth
• Vegetables
• Spices
• Sesame seeds
• Squirt of Sriracha

…and let it set overnight in the fridge. At lunchtime, I simply added hot water like I used to do to those store-bought cups of instant noodles …when I worked in a real office, and had coworkers who did the same.

Isn’t that a great idea?

Except, I discovered that another smarter person already thought of it…two years ago.

That would be the brilliant Kenji Alt-Lopez who posted his DIY Instant Noodles on his awesome site SeriousEats. Luckily, his version is quite a bit different from mine and uses some fancy ingredients I don’t usually have on hand. And my Noodle Soup in a Jar is all about the convenience – especially when I can prep four lunches at a time.

Here’s how I made my Noodle Soup in a Jar budget-friendly, quick and healthy…without mushy noodles:

• Dried ramen noodles (the inexpensive Maruchan-brand package is fine.) But ditch the sodium-bomb flavor pack that comes with the noodles.
• Frozen vegetables + whatever protein is on-hand: Cooked chicken, shrimp, tofu, even canned tuna was delish
• Boxed or homemade chicken broth – but only 1/2 cup to avoid mushy noodles – and potential spillage on the way to work/school.
• Simple spices – DON’T forget the toasted seasame seeds. They totally make the soup and add great nutrition.
• If you need a little more saltiness, pack some reduced-sodium soy sauce packetsA fresher lunch than instant noodles in a cup: Noodle Soup in a Jar via @TspCurry #TheRecipeReDux Click To Tweet

My kids’ school does allow glass mason jars – and some eco-conscious moms are packing lunches in jars.

My kids loved these soups.

And the bonus: No pots to wash! This has come in very handy as I’m embarking on a little DIY kitchen remodel….more to come. (:

Description

Easy make-ahead ramen noodles in a jar is healthy, fresh and a super-filling lunch solution.

• 1 (3 oz) package of ramen noodle soup
• 2 cups homemade or canned chicken stock
• 1 1/2 cup frozen mixed vegetables
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons toasted sesame seeds
• 4 squirts sriracha sauce
• 8 ounces tofu, cooked chicken, shrimp, or tuna

1. Divide the noodles from the package of ramen into four 1-pint jars; discard spice packet.
2. Divide chicken broth, mixed vegetables, garlic powder, soy sauce, sesame seeds, sriracha sauce and tofu/meat between 4 jars.
3. Seal jars with a lid and ring band. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
4. To serve, let jar come to room temperature for about 1 hour before serving. Add boiling hot water to the 12-ounce line. Seal jar and let set for about 3 minutes.

   Stir and enjoy!

What are your creative packed lunch ideas? Please share!If you need more inspiration, check out all of our ReDuxers ‘what to pack for lunch’ lunches below: