by Ramen, a dish once limited to the streets of Japan, has become an international sensation. Its warm, slurp-worthy noodles and adaptable flavors resonate with nearly every palate. But if you’re wondering how to make your ramen bowl even better, you’re in for a treat. Let’s embark on a journey from traditional ingredients to the experimental ones, showing you what to put in ramen to take it to the next level.
Historical Context of Ramen
Originating from China but perfected and popularized by Japan, ramen has graced our tables for decades. Each region in Japan boasts its own unique version, from the miso ramen of Sapporo to the tonkotsu of Hakata. The beauty of ramen? It’s customizable, reflecting the local palate and ingredients.
Essential Ramen Ingredients and Toppings
Proteins
The melt-in-the-mouth Chashu pork is a classic. But don’t limit yourself. Soft-boiled eggs with slightly runny centers or tofu cubes can be equally delicious.
Vegetables
Green onions add a fresh bite, bean sprouts bring a crunchy texture, and bamboo shoots absorb the broth’s flavors beautifully.
Seasonings
Toasted sesame seeds, aromatic chili oils, and sheets of seaweed (nori) can transform your bowl’s overall taste.
DIY Ramen Broth Enhancements
The broth is the soul of ramen. Starting with miso, soy, or spicy pastes can lay a good foundation. Whether you’re making a homemade broth (which can be a therapeutic process) or spicing up a store-bought one, don’t be afraid to add your personal touch.
Noodle Varieties to Explore
The magic isn’t just in the broth but also in the noodles. Thick, udon-like noodles soak up flavors beautifully, while thin ones provide a delicate bite. And let’s not forget the curly variety, perfect for those who love a good slurp.
Restaurant Style Ramen Add-ins
- Chashu Pork: Sliced braised pork belly or shoulder, tender from slow cooking. It’s laid over the noodles as a primary protein.
- Ajitama: A soft-boiled egg marinated in soy and mirin, adding a creamy texture and depth when its yolk combines with the broth.
- Nori: Seaweed sheets, often toasted, positioned upright against the bowl’s side, offering a briny contrast.
- Moyashi: Crunchy bean sprouts, typically blanched and added as a fresh topping.
- Menma: Fermented bamboo shoots, providing a slightly tangy and crunchy texture.
- Kikurage: Wood ear mushroom with a jelly-like consistency, adding an earthy bite.
- Corn Kernels: Often seen in miso ramen, they add a touch of sweetness.
- Kamaboko: A colorful fish cake, usually sliced and floated on top for a visual pop and mild seafood flavor.
- Narutomaki: Swirled white fish cake, also for visual appeal and a light, chewy texture.
- Green Onions: Sliced or chopped, they bring a fresh, sharp bite.
- Bok Choy/Baby Bok Choy: Chinese cabbage, usually blanched or slightly sautéed, adding greens to the mix.
- Seaweed Salad: A cold, tangy, and slightly sweet salad providing a contrast to the hot broth.
- Butter: A pat added to rich miso-based broths, melting into a creamy delight.
- Spinach: Blanched or steamed, it adds nutrition and a mild earthy flavor.
- Broccoli: Typically blanched, adding texture and vitamins.
- Wakame: A type of seaweed that swells in the broth, adding a slippery texture.
- Garlic: Freshly minced or fried, it provides a strong, aromatic kick.
- Ginger: Thinly sliced or minced, it imparts warmth and spice.
- Sesame Seeds: Toasted and sprinkled on top for a nutty aroma.
- Beni Shōga: Pickled red ginger, adding a sharp tangy bite, usually on the side.
- Tofu: Soft or fried cubed tofu soaks up the broth and offers a vegetarian protein source.
- Chicken: Sliced or pulled, it’s an alternative protein to pork.
- Beef Slices: Thin slices cook quickly in the hot broth, giving a meaty richness.
- Spicy Ground Pork: Adds heat and depth, often mingling with the noodles.
- Tempura Vegetables: Crispy elements like sweet potato or zucchini provide a contrasting crunch.
- Tempura Shrimp: A crunchy, seafood protein option.
- Miso Paste: Fermented soybean paste that can be a base for the broth, offering a deep umami flavor.
- Soy Sauce: Adds saltiness and depth, used in various broth bases or as a finishing touch.
- Rayu: Chili oil for those who desire a spicy kick.
- Mayu: Black garlic oil, swirled into broth for a smoky, garlicky undertone.
- Wasabi: A hot, spicy paste that can be mixed into the broth for an extra kick.
- Bean Curd Sheets: Spongy and absorbent, they soak up the flavorful broth.
- Shiitake Mushrooms: Offer a meaty texture and umami richness.
- Enoki Mushrooms: Thin, white mushrooms with a mild flavor, often bundled atop the ramen.
- Sliced Chili Peppers: For those seeking extra heat.
- Roasted Seaweed Powder: Sprinkled on top for a concentrated briny punch.
- Takana: Spicy pickled mustard greens, usually placed on the side or mixed in.
- Umeboshi: Sour pickled plum that adds a tangy punch, sometimes mashed into the broth.
- Daikon Radish Sprouts: A peppery bite and crunchy texture.
- Sliced Leeks: A milder oniony flavor compared to green onions, often sautéed or used fresh.
Unconventional Yet Delicious Add-ins
These unconventional toppings and mix-ins often gain traction on social media platforms like TikTok or YouTube, where users enjoy experimenting with quirky and unexpected food combinations. While they might not be everyone’s cup of tea, they certainly make for intriguing culinary experiments!
- Cheese: Specifically processed cheese slices that melt into the hot broth, a fusion inspired by Korean trends.
- Hot Dogs: Sliced into small pieces or even lengthwise to mimic traditional fish cakes.
- Pizza Rolls: A quirky internet-fueled addition to up the carb game.
- Instant Coffee: For a surprising depth and bitter contrast.
- Peanut Butter: Offering a creamy, nutty twist.
- Canned Chili: For a fusion of ramen with American comfort food.
- Doritos: Crushed and sprinkled on top for an extra crunch.
- Spam: Sliced and either fried or boiled, a nod to its popularity in some Asian dishes.
- Canned Tuna: Drained and mixed in for a seafood twist.
- Mac N’ Cheese: For a cheesy, carb-heavy bowl inspired by two comfort foods.
- Popcorn: Added on top for an airy, crunchy texture.
- Maple Syrup: For a touch of unexpected sweetness.
- Chocolate: Especially dark, melted into the broth for richness.
- Cereal: Like cornflakes or frosted flakes, for a crunchy sweet-and-savory mix.
- Sour Cream & Onion Chips: Crushed and sprinkled on top, inspired by the snack’s flavor profile.
- Ketchup: For a tangy, sweet broth twist.
- Mustard: Mixed into the broth for a sharp bite.
- Pickle Slices: Either dill or bread and butter for tangy contrast.
- M&M’s: For a quirky sweet touch, inspired by the sweet-and-salty trend.
- Whipped Cream: On top for a creamy, sweet contrast.
- Gummy Bears: For a chewy, sweet surprise.
- Ice Cream: A dollop on top, especially with spicy ramen, for a hot-cold sensation.
- Sliced Bananas: Added for sweetness and a creamy texture.
- Jelly Beans: A sweet, chewy, and colorful garnish.
- Canned Soup: Like tomato or chicken noodle, mixed into the broth.
- Marshmallows: Either small ones scattered or large ones melted on top.
- Oreos: Crushed and sprinkled, for those who champion the chocolate-savory combo.
- Pretzels: Broken up and sprinkled over, for a salty crunch.
- Soda: Like cola, mixed into the broth for a sweet and carbonated twist.
- Candy Bacon: Sliced and mixed in, for a sweet, meaty add-on.
Other Ramen Dish Considerations
Vegan and Vegetarian Ramen Options
Who says ramen is only for meat lovers? A miso broth paired with tofu, bok choy, mushrooms, and corn can be as tantalizing. Vegan ramen offerings have grown exponentially, with plant-based broths capturing the richness traditionally reserved for their meaty counterparts.
Healthier Ramen Choices
For a healthier bowl, opt for low-sodium broths and lean proteins like chicken or fish. Increasing the vegetable content not only adds colors but also vitamins and minerals.
Tips for Presentation
While taste reigns supreme, visual appeal shouldn’t be ignored. Layer your ingredients for depth. The yellow of the corn, the green of the onions, and the pink of the pork can create a picturesque bowl, making it as delightful to the eyes as it is to the taste buds.
Quick Recipes and Ideas
Spicy Kimchi Ramen
Use a miso broth base, add tofu or pork, toss in a handful of bean sprouts, green onions, and a generous spoon of kimchi. Finish with sesame seeds and chili oil.
Sweet and Savory Chocolate Ramen
Start with a spicy broth, add in thin noodles, top with ground beef or tofu, and melt a piece of dark chocolate for a rich depth of flavor.
Tropical Ramen Twist
Incorporate coconut milk in your broth for a creamy texture. Add shrimp, bell peppers, and a hint of lime for that tropical touch.
Conclusion
Ramen is a canvas, waiting for your artistic touch. Each ingredient, whether traditional or out-of-the-box, brings its own voice to the chorus. Dive into this ramen journey, experiment with flavors, and most importantly, enjoy every bite.
Before you go, don’t forget to share your ramen masterpiece with the world. Your unique recipe could be the next big thing in the culinary world!