Homemade McDonald’s Ramen Fries Recipe

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McDonald’s surprises us with a bold twist, and one such addition was the iconic Ramen Fries (known as Ramyeon McShaker Fries). These McDonald’s Ramen Fries combined the irresistible crunch of McDonald’s fries with the savory, umami-packed essence of ramen seasoning. And let me tell you—it was a match made in flavor heaven.

How to make McDonald’s Ramen Fries

McDonald’s Ramen Fries are a limited-time fast-food item consisting of regular French fries coated with a ramen-flavored seasoning, giving them a savory, umami, and slightly spicy taste similar to instant noodle broth.

Ingredients

For the Fries:

• Frozen French fries (Classic shoestring fries work best, just like McDonald’s)
• Oil for frying (or use an air fryer for a healthier option)

For the Ramen-Style Seasoning Mix:

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce powder (readily available at spice shops or online)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• ½ teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra depth)
• 1 teaspoon sugar (balances the savory flavors, just like ramen seasoning)
• 1 pinch of salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon MSG (optional, but it mimics the iconic umami kick of fast-food seasoning)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Fries

1. Prepare the fries: Cook your frozen French fries according to the package instructions. For the most McDonald’s-like experience, deep-fry them for that signature crispiness, but air-frying or baking works too!
2. Set aside the fries: Allow the fries to cool for just a minute (you want them warm but not scorching hot for seasoning).

Step 2: Prepare the Ramen-Style Seasoning

1. Mix the seasoning: Combine all the ramen seasoning ingredients in a small bowl or jar. Make sure everything is evenly blended by stirring or shaking the jar. Taste the seasoning and adjust the salt or sugar as needed to suit your preference.

Step 3: Coat the Fries

1. Transfer the fries: Place the cooked fries into a large resealable bag or container with a lid. This is crucial for the “shaker” style method!
2. Add seasoning: Sprinkle your ramen seasoning mix into the bag containing the fries. Start with half the seasoning mix (you can always add more to intensify the flavor).
3. Shake it up: Seal the bag or container tightly, then give it a good shake until the fries are evenly coated with the seasoning.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

1. Plate the fries: Pour the seasoned fries onto a large plate or platter.
2. Optional garnish: Add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for an extra visual and flavor boost.
3. Serve immediately: These fries taste best while warm and crispy. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy them as is.

Tips for Perfect Ramen Fries

• Go light on the seasoning initially: It’s easy to over-season, especially with the strong umami flavors. Start small and gradually add more until you hit the perfect balance.
• Don’t skip the shaking: It is essential for evenly coating the fries and recreating McDonald’s signature seasoning style.
• Make it your own: Feeling adventurous? Try adding chili powder or a drizzle of gochujang for a spicy Korean twist.
• Use fresh fries: If you’re cutting fries from scratch, make sure they’re thin and crisp to mimic McDonald ’s-style texture.
• Air fryer hack: If you’re using an air fryer, toss the fries halfway through cooking for more even crispiness.

What to serve with

McDonald’s Ramen Fries are bold, flavorful, and packed with savory, umami goodness that can steal the show on their own. But pairing them with complementary dishes or beverages can elevate your snack session to a full-on feast fit for a fan of global-inspired flavors.

Spicy Mayo: Mix mayo with a splash of sriracha sauce or gochujang (Korean chili paste). The creamy texture balances the fries’ crispiness, while its spicy flavor complements the seasoning mix.

Soy Garlic Sauce: Whisk soy sauce, minced garlic, sesame oil, and honey together to make a glossy, sweet-and-savory dip inspired by Asian cuisine.

Cheese Sauce: Melt shredded cheddar with a splash of milk and a pinch of garlic powder for a cheesy pairing that contrasts beautifully with the ramen seasoning.

Ketchup or Sweet Chili Sauce: Classic ketchup always works, but if you’re adventurous, go with sweet chili sauce for a tangy and spicy kick.

Ingredients Substitutes

Recreating McDonald’s Ramen Fries at home is a fun culinary challenge, but you may not always have access to the exact ingredients the recipe calls for. The good news? There are plenty of easy swaps and creative substitutes you can use without sacrificing flavor.

Frozen French Fries

Original Ingredient: Frozen shoestring French fries (to replicate McDonald’s texture and crispiness)

Substitutes:

• Homemade Fries: Slice potatoes into thin strips using a knife, mandoline, or julienne slicer. Soak them in cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch, dry thoroughly, and fry or bake them as desired for a homemade alternative.
• Sweet Potato Fries: If you prefer a healthier or sweeter version, use sweet potato fries—store-bought or homemade.
• Waffle Fries or Curly Fries: For a playful twist, use store-bought waffle or curly fries. These are thicker but can hold the seasoning really well.

Soy Sauce Powder

Original Ingredient: Soy sauce powder (used for savory, salty umami flavor in the seasoning blend)

Substitutes:

• Instant Ramen Seasoning Packets: If you can’t find soy sauce powder, use the seasoning packet from instant ramen noodles. It typically contains soy or tamari flavors and adds that ramen-inspired punch.
• Liquid Soy Sauce: If soy sauce powder isn’t available, mix a few drops of liquid soy sauce into the seasoning blend. Be cautious with the amount, as it can make the mix wet or clumpy.
• Tamari or Coconut Aminos: These soy sauce alternatives work if you want gluten-free or slightly sweeter versions of the seasoning.

Garlic Powder

Original Ingredient: Garlic powder (provides fragrant, savory flavor)

Substitutes:

• Granulated Garlic: Granulated garlic offers a similar flavor but has a coarser texture.
• Fresh Garlic: Mince fresh garlic, toast it lightly in a pan to concentrate the flavor, and mix it with the fries after seasoning.
• Garlic Salt: Use garlic salt if you don’t have plain garlic powder, but skip or adjust the added salt in the seasoning.

Onion Powder

Original Ingredient: Onion powder (adds subtle sweetness and depth)

Substitutes:

• Granulated Onion: Use granulated onion for a similar flavor but coarser texture.
• Fresh Onion: Finely chop or sauté onions until caramelized, then use them as a garnish or a mix-in for extra flavor.
• Leek or Shallots: Finely chopped leeks or shallots can provide a milder alternative to onion powder.

Final Thoughts

With this recipe, you’ll be able to satisfy your cravings for McDonald’s Ramen Fries whenever the mood strikes. 

More McDonald’s Recipes:

• Homemade McDonald’s Hunter Sauce Recipe
• Homemade McDonald’s Demon Sauce Recipe