Cheap Microwave Instant Noodles With Diced Eggplant

Who says budget meals can’t be bold? This microwave noodle recipe costs under $2 per serving and cooks in under 5 minutes—ideal for broke college students, busy parents, or anyone craving a hot meal without the hassle.

Canned diced eggplant adds a savory, slightly smoky twist to basic instant noodles. Think of it as your pantry’s secret weapon for upgrading ramen from “meh” to “more, please!”

We’ll walk through ingredient swaps, microwave hacks, and pro tips to nail this dish every time.

What is Canned Diced Eggplant?

Canned diced eggplant is exactly what it sounds like – pre-cooked eggplant chunks preserved in water, brine, or tomato sauce. It’s shelf-stable, ready in 30 seconds, and costs about $1.50 per can. Unlike fresh eggplant, there’s no slicing, salting, or pre-cooking required.

Using Canned Eggplant in Microwave Recipes

My grandpa swore by canned veggies during his teaching days – “No time to julienne when you’ve got papers to grade!” Drain the liquid first (it can taste metallic) and pat the chunks dry. Microwaving softens them further, so we’ll add them mid-cook to avoid mush.

What Do Microwave Instant Noodles With Eggplant Taste Like?

Imagine your favorite instant ramen – salty, savory, slightly spicy – but with a smoky, earthy undertone from the eggplant. The noodles stay springy, while the veggie adds a meaty texture without actual meat. It’s like a dorm-room stew that somehow feels gourmet. For those looking to elevate their instant noodle experience, adding a handful of microwave-friendly veggies can create a delicious, nutritious meal in just minutes.

Balancing Savory and Earthy Flavors

Canned eggplant brings umami, but its brine can overpower. Grandpa’s trick? Use half the seasoning packet and taste before adding more. A splash of soy sauce or dash of garlic powder bridges the gap between the salty broth and veggie’s earthiness.

Ready to raid your pantry? Let’s break down what you’ll need to build this budget-friendly bowl.

Ingredients for Microwave Instant Noodles With Canned Diced Eggplant

Our recipe thrives on pantry staples, but substitutions are fair game. Let’s explore your options before we fire up the microwave. Interestingly, many common foods can actually taste better when microwaved rather than baked, enhancing flavors and textures.

Instant Noodle Alternatives (Ramen, Rice Noodles, Etc.)

Any dried noodle that cooks in 3-4 minutes works here. My broke-college-self used ramen (discarding the seasoning pack) or rice noodles. For gluten-free needs, try lotus root or shirataki noodles – just check cooking times. If you’re looking for a quick meal, a ramen noodle recipe in the microwave can be a perfect solution for busy days.

Canned Eggplant Substitutes (Fresh, Pickled, Etc.)

No canned eggplant? No panic. Pickled eggplant adds tang (rinse first!), while fresh works if you microwave it 90 seconds before noodles. Zucchini or mushrooms mimic the texture in a pinch. My roommate once used canned artichokes – weirdly delicious! For a quick and affordable meal, consider adding cheap microwave eggs and canned mixed vegetables to your dish. This combination is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients.

Optional Seasoning Add-ins

• Umami boosters: ½ tsp miso paste, ¼ tsp fish sauce, or 1 crushed garlic clove
• Heat: Chili crisp, sriracha, or red pepper flakes
• Freshness: Chopped scallions, cilantro, or sesame seeds

Also See: Easy Microwave Rosemary Butter – A Spring Delight!

How to Make Cheap Microwave Instant Noodles With Canned Diced Eggplant

This isn’t just “nuke and pray” – we’ve got strategy. Follow these steps to avoid sogginess and spice explosions.

Step 1: Prepare Noodles in a Microwave-safe Bowl

Break noodles into quarters so they fit under water. Use a 2-quart microwave-safe bowl – trust me, anything smaller leads to bubble-overs. Skip the seasoning packet for now unless you’re using unflavored noodles. Cooking noodles in the microwave is a handy skill, especially for quick meals like cheap microwave instant noodles with canned diced eggplant.

Step 2: Adjust Water for Microwave Cooking

Microwaves evaporate less water than stoves. For every 1 cup noodles, use 1¼ cups water instead of the package’s 2 cups. Too much liquid = broth soup, not cozy noodles.

Step 3: Incorporate Canned Eggplant and Seasoning

Drain and rinse eggplant to ditch metallic brine. Add now if you want it soft, or wait until Step 5 for texture. Stir in half your seasoning packet (prevents salt overload) plus any add-ins. My go-to: garlic powder + soy sauce.

Step 4: Microwave Timing and Power Settings

Cover bowl with a microwave-safe plate. Cook on high (100% power) for 2 minutes, then 70% power for 1½ minutes. Lower heat prevents noodles from turning to glue. For a quick and easy meal, consider adding lazy microwave canned chicken to your instant noodles. This combination not only saves time but also boosts the protein content of your dish.

Step 5: Stirring and Testing Doneness

Noodles should bend without snapping. If still crunchy, microwave in 15-second bursts. Stir gently to avoid breaking eggplant. Taste – add remaining seasoning or hot sauce now.

Also See: Microwave Quinoa Recipe – 5 Variations, Tips, Tools, FAQs & More

How to Store and Reheat Leftover Noodles

Yes, leftovers can exist! Store broth and noodles separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days. Eggplant gets squishy after Day 3.

Preventing Sogginess in Microwaved Leftovers

Reheat noodles in a mesh strainer over boiling water to revive texture. No stove? Microwave broth first, then add noodles for 45 seconds. Toss a paper towel in the container to absorb excess steam. When using a microwave, ensuring even heating can further enhance the noodles’ texture and flavor.

Now that we’ve nailed the basics, let’s explore microwave safety tricks to avoid culinary disasters. Microwaving leftovers not only reheats food but can also help eliminate germs that might have settled on them. A good practice is to ensure your leftovers reach a safe temperature to kill any harmful bacteria, keeping your meals safe and delicious.

Microwave-safe Cooking Tips for Noodles and Eggplant

We’ve all had microwave mishaps – exploding eggs, volcanic soups. Let’s keep your noodles and eggplant drama-free with these battle-tested strategies.

Avoiding Overcooking Eggplant in the Microwave

Canned eggplant is already pre-cooked, so treat it like a delicate guest at a hot springs. Add it after the noodles have cooked for 1 minute to preserve texture. I learned this the hard way when my first attempt turned into eggplant pudding.

Drain and pat dry thoroughly. Excess moisture steams the chunks into oblivion. If you crave softer eggplant, microwave it separately for 20 seconds first. Cooking eggplant in the microwave can be a quick and effective method to achieve that desired texture without much fuss. This technique helps preserve the flavor while ensuring even cooking.

Adjusting Liquid for Thicker or Thinner Broth

Microwave power varies wildly. Start with 1 cup water per noodle block, not the package’s suggested 2 cups. You can always add hot water later. For broth thicker than a mystery novel, mix ½ tsp cornstarch with 1 tsp cold water before microwaving.

Thirsty noodles? Add 2 tbsp water and microwave 15 seconds more. Broth too weak? A dash of soy sauce or miso paste adds depth without dilution. For a quick meal option, consider microwave cup noodles, which offer a convenient and delicious way to satisfy your cravings. They’re perfect for those busy days when you need something hot and tasty in minutes.

Preventing Spills With Microwave Covering Techniques

Covering isn’t optional – it’s noodle armor. Use a microwave-safe plate tilted slightly to vent steam. Paper towels work but can stick to broths. My college hack: reuse takeout container lids with a 1-inch gap.

If your bowl is fuller than a post-finals laundry basket, place it on a microwave-safe plate. No one wants soy-sauce lava on the turntable. When using plastic bowls in the microwave, always ensure they are labeled as microwave-safe to avoid potential hazards.

Ready to get creative? Let’s explore how to customize this dish with proteins, spices, and veggie twists. A fresh veggie medley can add a burst of color and nutrients. Plus, trying a microwave twist can make preparation quick and easy, turning ordinary vegetables into a delightful side dish.

Now It’s Your Turn to Try!

We’ve covered everything from choosing the right canned eggplant to nailing microwave timing for perfect noodles. This budget-friendly meal proves convenience doesn’t have to sacrifice flavor.

Grab your favorite instant noodles, crack open that can of eggplant, and let your microwave do the heavy lifting. We’d love to hear how your savory, earthy creation turns out!