Name: No Cook Noodle Soup
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 bundle vermicelli noodles or bean threads (about 45 g); 1–2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; ½ vegetable bouillon cube; 1 teaspoon sugar; Dash of white pepper; 1.5 to 2 cups hot water (or more as needed); 1 teaspoon chili oil (or more, to taste); Drizzle sesame oil; Chopped green onions or cilantro, for topping (optional); Bok choy or other vegetables (optional); Mushrooms (optional); Tofu or other protein of choice (optional)

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No cook noodle soup is a quick, easy, and comforting meal that comes together in minutes with just boiling water. Using vermicelli or bean thread noodles, a flavorful soy-based seasoning mix, and fresh mix-ins like vegetables and tofu, this recipe is perfect for busy days when you need a warm, satisfying meal without much effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ready in under 10 minutes with minimal effort.
Completely customizable with your favorite vegetables and proteins.
Great for busy weeknights, office lunches, or dorm cooking.
No stovetop required—just boiling water or a microwave.
Naturally vegan-friendly and adaptable to dietary needs.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Noodles
1 bundle vermicelli noodles or bean threads (about 45 g, pea starch-based or similar)
1–2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon soy sauce
½ vegetable bouillon cube
1 teaspoon sugar
Dash of white pepper
1.5 to 2 cups hot water (or more as needed)
1 teaspoon chili oil (or more, to taste)
Drizzle sesame oil

Mix-ins (optional)
Chopped green onions or cilantro, for topping
Bok choy or other vegetables
Mushrooms
Tofu or other protein of choice

Directions

In a large heatproof or microwave-safe bowl, place noodles, garlic, soy sauce, bouillon, sugar, white pepper, chili oil, sesame oil, and any mix-ins.
Carefully pour boiling water into the bowl until noodles are submerged.
Stir to combine, then cover with a lid or plate. Let sit for 8–10 minutes until noodles are tender.
Alternatively, microwave the bowl on high for 2 minutes to cook vegetables and noodles faster.
Top with chopped green onions or cilantro before serving. Enjoy hot.

Servings and timing

Servings: 1
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 8–10 minutes (or 2 minutes with microwave)
Total time: 10 minutes

Variations

Add a spoonful of miso paste for extra umami.
Use rice noodles or soba noodles instead of vermicelli.
Swap soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free version.
Add shredded carrots, spinach, or cabbage for extra veggies.
Make it heartier with pan-fried tofu, tempeh, or seitan.

Storage/Reheating

Best enjoyed fresh, as noodles continue to absorb broth.
If making ahead, prepare the seasoning mix separately and add boiling water just before eating.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for 1 day but may need extra hot water when reheating.

FAQs

Can I use instant ramen instead of vermicelli?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time since ramen cooks faster.

How spicy is this recipe?

It depends on how much chili oil you add—adjust to your preference.

Can I use cold water instead of hot?

No, hot or boiling water is necessary to soften and cook the noodles.

What vegetables work best?

Bok choy, spinach, mushrooms, shredded carrots, and bean sprouts are all great choices.

Can I make this soup in a jar for meal prep?

Yes, layer the seasoning and noodles in a jar, then add boiling water when ready to eat.

Do I need to cook tofu before adding it?

No, you can add cubed silken or firm tofu directly, but pan-frying adds extra texture.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just increase the ingredients proportionally and use a larger bowl.

How do I make the broth richer?

Add a splash of coconut milk or an extra spoonful of bouillon paste.

Can I use flavored bouillon cubes?

Yes, vegetable, mushroom, or miso bouillon all work well.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes, if you prep the seasoning mix separately and combine with hot water just before serving.

Conclusion

No cook noodle soup is the ultimate quick and cozy meal, perfect for when you want something warm and flavorful without spending much time in the kitchen. With just a few pantry staples and fresh toppings, you can create a customizable soup that’s satisfying, nourishing, and ready in minutes.

Maggie