Sabine Sabine

Ramen

Ramen

Ramen is a quintessential Japanese noodle soup that combines a flavorful broth, tender noodles, and a variety of toppings like pork, eggs, and vegetables. With its comforting and rich flavors, it has become a global favorite. This recipe focuses on a classic Tonkotsu-style ramen with a creamy pork broth.

Ingredients:

For the Broth:

  • 2 kg pork bones (neck bones or trotters)

  • 1 onion, halved

  • 1 piece fresh ginger (3 inches), sliced

  • 2 cloves garlic, smashed

  • 1 leek, cut into large pieces

  • 1 sheet kombu (dried kelp)

  • 2-3 liters water

For the Tare (Seasoning Sauce):

  • 1/4 cup soy sauce

  • 2 tablespoons mirin

  • 2 tablespoons sake

  • 1 teaspoon sugar

  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil

For the Toppings:

  • 400g fresh ramen noodles (or dried ramen noodles)

  • 4 slices chashu pork (braised pork belly)

  • 4 soft-boiled eggs (ajitsuke tamago)

  • Nori (seaweed sheets)

  • Green onions, thinly sliced

  • Bamboo shoots (optional)

  • Bean sprouts (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Broth:

    • Rinse the pork bones thoroughly under cold water to remove any impurities.

    • Place the bones in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Boil for 5 minutes, then drain and rinse the bones.

    • In a clean pot, add the rinsed bones, onion, ginger, garlic, leek, and kombu. Cover with 2-3 liters of water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 8-10 hours, skimming off any scum periodically. Strain the broth and discard the solids.

  2. Prepare the Tare:

    • In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, mirin, sake, sugar, and sesame oil. Heat gently until the sugar dissolves. Set aside.

  3. Cook the Noodles:

    • Prepare ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

  4. Assemble the Ramen:

    • Add 1-2 tablespoons of tare to the bottom of each serving bowl.

    • Pour in the hot broth and mix well. Add the cooked noodles to the bowl.

    • Top with slices of chashu pork, halved soft-boiled eggs, nori, green onions, and any additional toppings like bamboo shoots or bean sprouts.

  5. Serve:

    • Serve immediately, allowing each person to customize their bowl with additional tare or chili oil if desired.

Serving Suggestions:
Pair your ramen with a side of gyoza (Japanese dumplings) or enjoy it as a satisfying standalone meal.


Ramen is a labor of love that rewards you with layers of flavor and heartwarming comfort. It’s the perfect dish to share with friends or enjoy on a cozy evening at home.

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