Traditional Japanese Ramen Noodle Soup

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 40 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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Traditional Japanese Ramen Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food that brings the rich, savory flavors of Japan right to your table. It's a heartwarming dish that combines tender pork, aromatic broth, and perfectly cooked noodles.

Ingredients for Traditional Japanese Ramen Noodle Soup

Chicken broth forms the base of our soup, providing depth and umami. The pork belly adds richness and a satisfying texture. A mix of soy sauce, miso paste, and sesame oil layers in traditional Japanese flavors. Garlic and ginger bring warmth and aromatic notes, while sake and a touch of sugar balance the savory elements. Ramen noodles are the heart of the dish, and shiitake mushrooms add earthiness. Garnish with nori sheets, green onions, and boiled eggs for a complete experience.

Tips & Tricks

  • Cook the ramen noodles separately to avoid them getting too mushy in the broth.
  • For a richer broth, simmer the pork belly longer if you have the time.
  • Try adding a dash of chili oil for a spicy kick.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this ramen with a light cucumber salad or steamed edamame to balance the meal. A cup of hot green tea on the side can enhance the overall experience, bringing a touch of tranquility to your dining table.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Chicken or beef can be great substitutes, but adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure tenderness.
What if I can't find shiitake mushrooms?
Feel free to use any mushrooms you have on hand. Button or cremini mushrooms work well too.

Traditional Japanese Ramen Noodle Soup Recipe Walkthrough

First, grab a large pot and pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and 2 cups of water. Add 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of miso paste, and 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. Toss in 2 minced garlic cloves and an inch of grated ginger for that aromatic base. Pour in 1 tablespoon of sake and a teaspoon of sugar, then bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat.

Next, add the thinly sliced 8 oz pork belly to your simmering broth. Let it cook for about 20 minutes until it's nice and tender. This is where the magic happens as the pork infuses the broth with its rich flavors.

While that's happening, cook your 8 oz of ramen noodles according to the package instructions. Drain them and set them aside, ready to soak up all that delicious broth.

Now, add 1 cup of sliced shiitake mushrooms to your pot. Let them simmer for an additional 10 minutes. Their earthy flavor will complement the savory broth perfectly.

Taste your broth and season it with salt and pepper to your liking. Remember, it should be rich and flavorful.

To serve, divide the cooked noodles into bowls. Pour the hot broth over the noodles, making sure to include some pork and mushrooms in each bowl. Top with halved boiled eggs, sliced green onions, and a few nori sheets. Serve immediately while it's piping hot.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Authentic flavors that transport you to Japan with every slurp.
  • Easy-to-follow steps that make cooking this dish a breeze, even for beginners.
  • Customizable toppings to suit your personal taste preferences.

Ingredients

4 cups chicken broth
2 cups water
8 oz pork belly, sliced thin
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp miso paste
1 tbsp sesame oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 inch ginger, grated
2 green onions, sliced
2 boiled eggs, halved
8 oz ramen noodles
1 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced
1 tbsp sake
1 tsp sugar
Nori sheets, for garnish
Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, water, soy sauce, miso paste, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, sake, and sugar. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add sliced pork belly to the broth and let cook for 20 minutes or until tender.
3. In a separate pot, cook ramen noodles according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
4. Add the shiitake mushrooms to the broth and let simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
5. Season the broth with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Divide the cooked noodles into bowls and pour the hot broth with pork and mushrooms over the noodles.
7. Top each bowl with halved boiled eggs, sliced green onions, and nori sheets.
8. Serve immediately while hot.

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