An Abundant Portion of Classic Comfort Cuisine
# Chicken and Dumplings: The Pinnacle of Comfort Cuisine
Chicken and Dumplings is a traditional dish that captures the heart of comfort cuisine. Featuring succulent chicken, homemade dumplings, and a rich, savory broth, this dish is ideal for providing warmth from the inside out. Whether you desire a snug family dinner or a meal to uplift your spirit, Chicken and Dumplings is a straightforward yet fulfilling choice that can be prepared from scratch any evening of the week.
## Holly’s Recipe Highlights: Chicken and Dumplings
### Taste
The blend of a savory broth, tender chicken, and fluffy dumplings results in a substantial dish that is both comforting and flavorful. The homemade essence is a signature of this timeless recipe.
### Essential Tools
To efficiently create this dish, it’s crucial to have the right utensils. A large stockpot, rolling pin, pizza cutter, and cheesecloth will assist in achieving optimal results.
### Serving Ideas
Complement your Chicken and Dumplings with a light green salad for a balanced meal that enhances the richness of the dish.
### Overall Time
– **Total Time:** 1 Hour 35 Minutes
– **Serves:** 8
– **Cooking Method:** Stovetop
## Ingredient Insights
– **Whole Chicken:** Utilizing a whole chicken produces a rich broth and ample tender meat. Bone-in chicken thighs can serve as a fantastic alternative.
– **Carrots and Celery:** These vegetables boost the broth’s flavor. You can chop and return them to the pot for a heartier soup or discard them for a smoother broth.
– **Bay Leaf or Poultry Seasoning:** These components are optional but contribute depth to the broth. Consider incorporating thyme or sage for a traditional flavor.
– **All-Purpose Flour:** This serves as the foundation for the dumplings. Keep extra flour accessible to avoid sticking during rolling and cutting.
– **Variations:** For added color and sweetness, mix in frozen peas. A splash of cream can elevate the dish, and for a quicker alternative, use pre-cooked shredded chicken.
## Success Tips
– **For Uniform Cooking:** Roll the dumplings to approximately ¼ inch thickness.
– **To Avoid Clumping:** Generously flour the dough before cutting to prevent sticking.
– **For Softer Dough:** Gradually add milk to create a soft, non-sticky dough.
– **Avoid Over-Kneading:** A few folds are enough to combine the dough.
– **Simmer Gently:** Steer clear of a vigorous boil to maintain the dumplings’ integrity.
– **Add Cornstarch Slurry Gradually:** The broth thickens rapidly, so add it slowly.
## Storing Leftovers
– **Refrigeration:** Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
– **Freezing:** The chicken and broth can be frozen for up to 3 months. For optimal texture, freeze before adding dumplings and prepare fresh dumplings when reheating.
– **Reheating:** Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding broth or water as needed.
## Cozy Chicken Meals
Chicken and Dumplings is more than just a dish; it’s a cherished experience that brings warmth and comfort to your dining table. Relish this recipe with family and friends, and enjoy the delightful flavors that make it an adored classic.
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Rapid 15-Minute Oven-Roasted Tomatoes Recipe
# Roasted Tomatoes: An Easy and Tasty Side Dish
Roasted tomatoes serve as a straightforward yet tasty side dish that can enhance any dining experience. With only a few ingredients, such as fresh tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, fresh herbs, and a dash of balsamic vinegar, this dish is simple to create and delicious. Topped with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, these oven-roasted tomatoes are ideal alongside grilled chicken breast or a succulent steak dinner.
## Holly’s Recipe Highlights: Roasted Tomatoes
– **Flavor**: Sweet, juicy, and slightly caramelized tomatoes blended with savory garlic, aromatic basil, and a touch of tangy balsamic vinegar.
– **Why Make**: Roasting emphasizes the tomatoes’ inherent sweetness and flavor, resulting in a rich side dish with little effort.
– **Serving Suggestions**: Serve these roasted tomatoes with grilled chicken breasts, mix them into egg noodles, or enjoy them on crusty no-knead bread.
**Total Time**: 15 Minutes
**Servings**: 6
**Cooking Method**: Oven Roasted
## Ingredient Notes
– **Tomatoes**: Choose the ripest tomatoes for optimal flavor. Roma tomatoes are heartier and may need a longer roasting duration, while cherry, grape, and Campari tomatoes roast swiftly and become delightfully juicy.
– **Balsamic Vinegar**: Contributes subtle tang and amplifies the tomatoes’ natural sweetness. For a deeper finish, drizzle with balsamic glaze once roasted.
– **Garlic**: Chopped garlic delivers robust flavor. For a gentler taste, consider garlic powder or roasting whole smashed cloves.
– **Basil**: Fresh basil brings brightness; dried basil serves as a suitable alternative. Other herbs like oregano, thyme, or Italian seasoning may also be utilized.
– **Parmesan Cheese (optional)**: A dash of Parmesan adds a savory touch but can be omitted if preferred.
## How to Make Roasted Tomatoes
1. Preheat the oven to 450°F.
2. Rinse and slice the tomatoes in half (or quarters for larger varieties).
3. Combine the tomatoes with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, basil, Parmesan (if using), salt, and pepper.
4. Arrange in a baking pan and roast for 10 to 20 minutes, or until your desired level of doneness is achieved.
### Tips for Perfect Roasted Tomatoes
– **Use Ripe Tomatoes**: They yield the sweetest taste.
– **Cut Evenly**: Ensure larger tomatoes are quartered to cook uniformly with smaller ones.
– **Roast in a Single Layer**: This avoids steaming and promotes proper roasting.
– **Avoid Over-Tossing**: Excessive tossing after roasting can lead to overly soft tomatoes.
– **Add Basil Wisely**: Fresh basil can be added after roasting for an enhanced flavor.
## Save Every Spoonful
– Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat as necessary.
### Nutrition Information (per serving)
– **Calories**: 56
– **Carbohydrates**: 6g
– **Protein**: 1g
– **Fat**: 3g
– **Cholesterol**: 1mg
– **Sodium**: 34mg
– **Potassium**: 358mg
– **Fiber**: 1g
– **Sugar**: 4g
– **Vitamin A**: 1270 IU
– **Vitamin C**: 20.9mg
– **Calcium**: 35mg
– **Iron**: 0.4mg
Roasted tomatoes are not just a delicious enhancement to your meal but also a nutritious one, brimming with vitamins and taste. Relish this easy recipe as a versatile side dish that pairs well with various main courses.
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Weekly Meal Schedule for August 3, 2026
### Receive Tasty New Recipes Each Day
In the current rapid-paced environment, finding time for cooking can pose a challenge. Nevertheless, with appropriate resources, you can easily uncover new and thrilling recipes that align with your lifestyle. Enrolling in a daily recipe service can revolutionize your cooking habits, making meal prep both enjoyable and efficient.
#### Reasons to Enlist in a Recipe Service
1. **Diversity**: Daily recipe subscriptions present a wide array of dishes, from swift weeknight dinners to elaborate weekend banquets. This diversity keeps your meals engaging and avoids the tedium of preparing the same dishes repeatedly.
2. **Ease**: With recipes sent straight to your inbox, you can strategize your meals in advance without the struggle of hunting for new ideas. This ease can conserve your time and diminish the anxiety of last-minute cooking.
3. **Healthier Options**: Many recipe services emphasize nutritious eating, offering healthy selections that accommodate various dietary preferences. This can assist you in sustaining a balanced diet and promote better eating habits.
4. **Skill Enhancement**: Experimenting with new recipes can improve your cooking abilities. With detailed instructions, you can glean new techniques and broaden your culinary skills.
5. **Community Involvement**: Numerous recipe services cultivate a community of food enthusiasts. By subscribing, you can connect with others who share your love for cooking, share advice, and even showcase your culinary masterpieces.
#### How to Enroll
Joining a daily recipe service is straightforward. Generally, you will need to input your email address and consent to receive updates. For example, you might see a subscription form that resembles this:
– **Email Address**: Input your email to get daily recipes.
– **GDPR Consent**: Acknowledge your agreement to receive emails.
– **Submit**: Hit the button to begin getting tasty recipes.
After subscribing, you can look forward to receiving a selection of recipes customized to your tastes, along with cooking advice and seasonal ideas.
#### Unsubscribe Anytime
Should you find that the service no longer suits your needs, most subscription services permit you to easily unsubscribe. Look for an “unsubscribe” link at the footer of the emails you receive.
#### Connect on Social Media
Besides email subscriptions, many recipe services have dynamic social media profiles. Following them on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest can offer you even more inspiration, cooking guidance, and community engagement.
### Final Thoughts
Enrolling in a daily recipe service can greatly improve your cooking journey. With a plethora of new recipes at your disposal, you’ll relish the meal preparation process and uncover new flavors and methods along the way. Begin your culinary adventure today and rejuvenate the excitement in your kitchen!
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Crispy Pan-Seared Crab Cakes Showcasing a High Crab Meat Content with Little Filler
## Effortless Crab Cake Preparation
This effortless Crab Cake Preparation is a tasty meal that delivers bold flavors and is packed with crab in every mouthful. These crab cakes contain minimal filler, allowing the succulent, sweet crab meat to take center stage. Pan-fried to perfection, they boast a crunchy outer layer while remaining soft on the inside.
### Serving Ideas
For a traditional seafood-themed meal, pair these crab cakes with a homemade [tartar sauce](https://www.spendwithpennies.com/tartar-sauce-recipe/) and a rich [coleslaw](https://www.spendwithpennies.com/best-coleslaw-recipe/).
### Holly’s Key Recipe Features: Crab Cakes
– **Simple to Prepare**: Utilize lump crabmeat or canned crab for ease.
– **Tasty**: Every bite is flavorful and enriched with fresh herbs and a tangy citrus kick.
– **Perfectly Crunchy**: A quick pan-fry yields a wonderfully golden finish.
– **Adaptable**: Excellent as starters, side dishes, or the main dish.
**Total Duration**: 1 Hour 40 Minutes
**Yields**: 8 Crab Cakes
**Cooking Technique**: Stovetop
### Selecting Crab for Crab Cakes
For optimal taste, choose fresh crab meat or lump crab meat, which is commonly found in jars near the seafood section. Although lump crab features larger chunks, canned crab is also a reliable choice. Always sift through the meat to eliminate any shell fragments or cartilage.
### Additional Ingredient Tips
– **Seasonings**: Incorporate Dijon mustard, a touch of Worcestershire sauce, and Old Bay seasoning. Fresh herbs boost the flavor profile.
– **Breadcrumbs**: A minimal amount of filler is utilized—just enough to bind the mixture. Panko breadcrumbs combined with a touch of mayo offer the best texture, while crushed saltine cracker crumbs work well as an alternative.
### Crab Cake Variations
– Toss in 1 to 2 tablespoons of finely chopped red bell pepper or green onions for added taste.
– Mix in a dash of cayenne or Cajun seasoning for a subtle kick.
– Prepare mini crab cakes for appetizers, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
Serve with a squeeze of lemon juice and your favorite dipping sauce, such as [homemade tartar sauce](https://www.spendwithpennies.com/dill-pickle-tartar-sauce/), remoulade, or [garlic aioli](https://www.spendwithpennies.com/aioli/).
### Storing, Freezing, and Reheating
1. **Refrigerator**: Store cooked crab cakes in a sealed container for up to **3 days**.
2. **Reheat**: To restore crispiness, reheat in a dry sauté pan over medium heat or utilize an air fryer.
3. **Freeze**: Freeze cooled crab cakes for a maximum of 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results, then pan-fry or air fry to warm them up.
Leftover crab cakes can be diced and incorporated into a [crab salad](https://www.spendwithpennies.com/crab-salad/) or blended into a [cheesy crab dip](https://www.spendwithpennies.com/crab-rangoon-dip-wonton-chips/).
### Fresh Sauces and Accompaniments for Crab Cakes
Did you prepare these simple Crab Cakes? Don’t forget to leave a rating and a comment below!
### Recipe Steps
1. Inspect the crab meat for any hard or sharp cartilage, remove, and toss.
2. In a bowl, blend together mayonnaise, beaten egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and Old Bay seasoning.
3. Incorporate the crab meat, breadcrumbs, parsley, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Carefully fold to mix, ensuring not to break the crab.
4. Form into 6-8 crab cakes using ⅓ cup each, then place on a plate. Cover with plastic wrap and chill for a minimum of 1 hour.
5. Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Cook the crab cakes for 3-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
6. Serve right away with tartar sauce and lemon wedges.
### Additional Notes
– Handle the crab mixture gently to prevent breaking it apart.
– Chilling the mixture is essential for the crab cakes to hold together.
– To bake crab cakes, preheat the oven to 450°F. Position crab cakes on a foil-lined baking sheet and bake for 13-18 minutes until browned.
### Nutritional Information (per serving)
– **Calories**: 232
– **Carbohydrates**: 3g
– **Protein**: 11g
– **Fat**: 18g
– **Saturated Fat**: 2g
– **Chol
Pizza Burgers: A Blend of Pizza and Burger Tastes
# Pizza Burgers: A Beloved Family Dish
These pizza burgers are a beloved family dish! Incredibly simple, adored by my children, and just enjoyable to prepare. They are also excellent for meal prep, making them an ideal addition to any hectic household.
## A Fond Recipe
The idea for pizza burgers stems from a treasured childhood experience. A toasted English muffin coated with garlic butter, topped with rich meat sauce and gooey cheese is a nostalgic meal that many families can connect with. This recipe is a wonderful mix of tradition and personal taste, fusing classic ingredients with contemporary twists.
## Reasons We Adore Pizza Burgers
1. **Incredibly Simple**: The ease of this recipe makes it suitable for cooks of any experience level.
2. **Child-Friendly**: Kids enjoy them, making them a favorite at family meals.
3. **Customizable Toppings**: You can add unique toppings, such as pepperoncini, to cater to your family’s preferences.
4. **Freezer-Friendly**: They can be taken from the freezer and reheated one at a time, perfect for busy days.
## How to Prepare Pizza Burgers
### Ingredients
– **Meat Filling**: Ground beef, Italian sausage, or well-seasoned ground turkey.
– **English Muffins**: Halved English muffins as the base.
– **Toppings**: Tomato sauce, shredded mozzarella cheese, plus optional toppings like pepperoncini or Italian seasoning.
### Directions
1. **Prepare the Filling**: Heat oil in a skillet, brown the meat, and incorporate seasonings. Mix in the tomato sauce and cheese.
2. **Brush with Garlic Butter**: Combine melted butter with garlic and brush it over the English muffins.
3. **Top the Muffins**: Place the meat mixture on the muffins, sprinkle cheese, and add other toppings if desired.
4. **Cook**: Bake at 350°F for 5-7 minutes or air fry at 350°F for 4-5 minutes until golden brown.
5. **Freeze for Later**: Arrange individual pizza burgers on a plate to freeze. Once solid, move them to a bag or container for future meals.
### Success Tips
– When using Italian sausage, diminish the seasoning as it already has excellent flavor.
– For ground turkey or chicken, adhere to the seasoning amounts for the best taste.
## Final Thoughts
Pizza burgers are more than just a dish; they symbolize family traditions and are a way to forge new memories. Whether you’re making them for a swift dinner or an enjoyable family cooking activity, these pizza burgers are guaranteed to satisfy everyone at the table. Relish this delightful recipe from my Midwestern grandma to you!
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45 Nutritious Summer Dinner Ideas for a Fresh and Vibrant Meal
# Vibrant Summer Dinner Ideas That Are Light, Fresh, and Tasty
Summer provides an ideal backdrop for indulging in bright, lively meals that make the most of abundant seasonal ingredients. With tomatoes overflowing with taste, corn perfect for grilling, and a variety of colorful veggies, maintaining healthy eating is a breeze and a pleasure. Below are some delightful summer dinner ideas that are not only nutritious but also immensely satisfying.
## Nutritious Summer Dinner Ideas
### 1. Salmon with Basil Sauce and Tomato Salad
This meal features sunny salmon adorned with a tasty basil sauce, accompanied by a cooling tomato salad. It’s a light yet satisfying dish that’s ideal for balmy evenings.
### 2. Sheet Pan Meatballs with Tomato Salad and Green Sauce
Savory meatballs baked on a sheet pan, complemented by a zesty tomato salad and a lively green sauce. This recipe is straightforward to make and bursting with flavor.
### 3. Napa Chicken Salad with Sesame Dressing
This crunchy dish incorporates fresh napa cabbage, rotisserie chicken, and a homemade sesame dressing. Enhance it with your choice of crunchy toppings for added texture.
### 4. Smoky Beans & Greens Tacos with Aji Verde
These tacos are loaded with smoky black beans and sautéed greens, finished with a vibrant Aji Verde sauce. They’re a fantastic way to enjoy summer tastes in a convenient meal.
### 5. Lemongrass Vermicelli Salad
A revitalizing salad featuring vermicelli noodles, pan-fried tofu, and a zesty lime-and-lemongrass dressing. It’s light, flavorful, and ideal for hot summer days.
### 6. Couscous Summer Salad
This eye-catching salad is made up of spiced couscous, juicy nectarines, crunchy cucumbers, and fresh herbs. It’s a delightful combination of textures and flavors that embody summer.
### 7. Summer Chipotle Chicken Cobb Salad with Cilantro Vinaigrette
A substantial salad featuring chipotle chicken, sweet corn, avocado, and a zesty cilantro vinaigrette. This dish is both hearty and refreshing.
### 8. Roasted Cauliflower Burrito Bowls
A vegan burrito bowl filled with spicy roasted cauliflower, pico de gallo, and creamy refried black beans. It’s a nourishing and fulfilling meal.
### 9. Corn, Avocado, and Quinoa Salad with Marinated Tomatoes
This quinoa dish blends fresh corn, rich avocado, and marinated tomatoes for a refreshing and healthful meal.
### 10. Couscous Salad with Lime Basil Vinaigrette
A lively and tangy salad that includes couscous, sweet potatoes, black beans, and a flavorful lime basil vinaigrette. It’s perfect for summertime get-togethers.
### 11. Spicy Peanut Soba Noodle Salad
A tasty salad crafted with soba noodles, red peppers, cabbage, and a homemade spicy peanut sauce. It’s a quick and flavorful option.
### 12. Rainbow Chicken Salad with Almond Honey Mustard Dressing
This colorful salad showcases tender chicken, fresh fruits, and a sweet almond honey mustard dressing. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy summer bounty.
### 13. Lemon Herb Pasta Salad with Marinated Chickpeas
A refreshing pasta dish filled with marinated chickpeas, fresh herbs, and a zesty lemon dressing. It’s light and ideal for summer picnics.
### 14. Street Corn Beef and Sweet Potato Bowls
A family favorite combining sweet potatoes and ground beef, topped with a creamy street corn dip. It’s a cozy yet healthy choice.
### 15. Cashew Crunch Salad with Sesame Dressing
This crunchy salad is loaded with veggies, chow mein noodles, and roasted cashews, all drizzled with a delightful sesame dressing.
### 16. 15-Minute Meal Prep Sesame Noodle Bowls
Quick and effortless noodle bowls featuring creamy sesame sauce, chicken, and fresh vegetables. Ideal for meal prep!
### 17. Shrimp and Avocado Salad with Miso Dressing
A vibrant salad adorned with spicy shrimp, crisp cucumbers, and creamy avocado, all drizzled with a flavorful miso dressing.
### 18. The Oliver’s Salad
An exquisite salad inspired by a local eatery, featuring salmon, roasted corn, and a homemade smoky ranch dressing.
### 19. One-Pan Farro with Tomatoes and Kale
A wholesome one-pan dish featuring farro, cherry tomatoes, and kale. It’s straightforward and packed with nutrients.
### 20. Lemongrass Chicken with Rice and Zucchini
Juicy chicken thighs cooked in a creamy lemongrass sauce, served alongside jasmine rice and fresh vegetables.
### 21. Spicy Shrimp with Peach Salad
This dish marries spicy shrimp with a fresh peach and cucumber salad, encapsulating the essence of summer in every bite.
### 22. Crispy Rice Salad with Cucumbers and Herbs
A delightful salad showcasing crispy rice, fresh vegetables, and a zesty dressing.
Fast Thai Red Curry Ramen Recipe in 15 Minutes
# Thai Red Curry Ramen Noodles: A Warm Dinner Treat
Thai red curry ramen noodles represent the pinnacle of comfort food when you’re in need of a quick, warm dinner. This dish merges creamy, spicy tastes with a wealth of vegetables, tender chicken, and hearty noodles, making it ideal for relaxation after a demanding day.
## Recipe Highlights
– **Hearty Noodles in Tasty Broth**: Savor the delightful blend of hearty noodles in a spicy, creamy, nutty broth, enhanced by tender chicken and fresh veggies.
– **Creamiest Broth**: The broth adheres wonderfully to the noodles and toppings, delivering a burst of flavor in every mouthful.
– **Fast and Simple**: This recipe is remarkably quick, particularly if you utilize an Instant Pot. Just add all components to the pot, allow it to reach pressure, and in merely 5 minutes, dinner is served.
– **Ideal for Two**: Tailored for two portions, this recipe limits liquid, guaranteeing a swift cooking process even without an Instant Pot.
## The Ideal Pantry Noodle
After a tiring day, the idea of cooking can feel daunting. Many of us might be tempted to get takeout, but having a few essential pantry items can make whipping up a tasty meal quick and hassle-free. Thai red curry ramen is an excellent choice for those evenings when you desire something satisfying without the effort.
## Thai Curry Ramen Ingredients
– **Thai Red Curry Paste**: The highlight of the dish, pre-made Thai red curry paste is suggested for ease.
– **Chicken Stock**: Opt for low-sodium chicken stock to maintain a balanced flavor.
– **Coconut Milk**: Choose canned coconut milk for a luscious, creamy consistency.
– **Sesame Paste**: Brings a nutty flavor; tahini can be used as an alternative.
– **Garlic and Ginger**: Key aromatics that boost the dish’s taste.
– **Chicken**: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts cook swiftly and are simple to shred.
– **Vegetables**: Spinach, bell peppers, and mushrooms add fiber and nutrients.
– **Seasoning**: Modify seasoning with fish sauce or extra curry paste as desired.
## How to Prepare Thai Curry Ramen on the Stove
1. **Simmer Components**: Mix chicken stock, coconut milk, sesame paste, red curry paste, garlic, ginger, chicken breast, and mushrooms in a pot. Simmer over medium heat until the chicken is fully cooked (about 10-15 minutes).
– *Instant Pot Option*: Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes, then quick release.
2. **Shred Chicken**: After cooking, take out the chicken, shred it, and set it aside.
3. **Incorporate Vegetables**: Stir in sliced peppers and spinach, cooking momentarily until the spinach wilts.
4. **Serve**: Pour the broth and vegetables into bowls, top with cooked ramen noodles and shredded chicken, and garnish with cilantro and lime if desired.
## Instant Pot Method
For a speedier version, simply place all ingredients in the Instant Pot, cook on high pressure for 5 minutes, quick release, shred the chicken, mix in spinach, and serve.
## What is Thai Red Curry Paste?
Thai red curry paste is a mixture of dried chili, garlic, lemongrass, shallots, galangal, makrut lime, coriander, and cumin. It’s a multifunctional ingredient that can enhance numerous dishes, making it a useful addition to your pantry.
## Sesame Paste vs. Tahini
Chinese sesame paste possesses a richer flavor compared to tahini, which is derived from hulled sesame seeds. Both can be utilized in this recipe, but sesame paste is favored for its more profound taste.
## Recommended Noodles
For optimal texture, use fresh chow mein noodles or thicker instant ramen, like Nong Shim’s Shin Ramyun.
## Conclusion
Thai red curry ramen noodles are a scrumptious, spicy, creamy, and nutty meal that can be prepared in just 15 minutes. With a perfect blend of flavors and textures, this recipe is bound to become a staple for those hectic weeknights when you seek a comforting dish. Relish the warmth and contentment of this delightful bowl of ramen!