Ramen is not only popular in Japan but all over the world. There are countless varieties, with different flavors and styles to choose from. Some popular varieties include Shio (salt-based), Shoyu (soy sauce-based), Miso (fermented soybean paste-based), Tonkotsu (pork bone broth-based) and Curry. Ramen restaurants can be found in many cities around the world and it has become a popular dish for people of all ages.
Ramen noodles can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, from piping hot to cold or even dry. It is also a great meal to get creative with by adding your own toppings like eggs, vegetables, meats, and seasonings. It is a great way to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal in a short amount of time.
The dish has become increasingly popular among home cooks as well, with many people creating their own recipes at home. There are also many different types of instant ramen available in stores, making it even easier to make a delicious bowl at home.
Why ramen is the most popular noodle soup by far
Ramen is arguably the most popular type of noodle soup around the world. Originating from Japan, it has become a staple dish in many countries and cultures due to its versatile flavor profile, ease of preparation and health benefits.
One of the main reasons why the dish has become so popular is because it can be made with a variety of ingredients, allowing for endless possibilities. The broth is usually made with pork or chicken bones simmered for several hours along with spices such as star anise, ginger and garlic. Fresh noodles are usually made with some egg added and should be cooked al dente to get the best texture and flavor. Toppings can vary from sliced pork, boiled eggs, seaweed and green onions to mushrooms, fish cake and corn.
Cooking ramen
Ramen noodles are made from wheat and can either be dried or fresh, depending on the type. Generally speaking, most noodles are made with wheat flour, salt and water. In addition to wheat, some recipes may also add a small amount of egg or kansui (alkaline water) for additional flavor or texture.
To cook, you should first bring a pot of water to boil. Once the water is boiling, add in your choice of noodles and cook until they are al dente. If using dried noodles, they usually take around 3-5 minutes while fresh noodles can take 1-2 minutes. When the noodles are cooked, strain out the water and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Then add whatever toppings or broth you desire and enjoy!
Ramen is an incredibly versatile dish, with a wide variety of different varieties available. From light and savory shio to creamy and spicy tonkatsu, there is something for everyone. Here are some of the most popular varieties of ramen that can be found around the world:
Shio Ramen: A light and savory soup made with a clear broth and salty, umami-rich toppings such as seaweed and pork belly.
Shoyu Ramen: A rich and flavorful soup made with a soy sauce-based broth and vegetables like mushrooms, bamboo shoots and bean sprouts.
Miso Ramen: A spicy and creamy soup made with miso-based broth and toppings like bean sprouts, pork belly and boiled eggs.
Tonkotsu Ramen: A creamy and rich soup made with pork bone-based broth and toppings like bamboo shoots and green onions.
Veggy and vegan too
Vegetarian ramen is a delicious, nutritious and flavorful option for those looking to enjoy a bowl without any meat. The key to amazing vegetarian ramen lies in the broth and toppings you choose. For the best flavor, opt for vegetable-based broths such as mushroom or miso and top it off with vegetables like bean sprouts, mushrooms, seaweed and corn.
Can it be vegan as well? Absolutely! Ramen can definitely be vegan and it can still be just as delicious as its non-vegan counterpart. In fact, vegan is becoming increasingly popular with more restaurants offering vegan-friendly options on their menus. The key to tasty vegan noodle soup lies in the broth and toppings you choose.
The broth can be made with vegetable-based broths such as mushroom or miso and then topped with vegan-friendly ingredients like tofu, mushrooms, seaweed, and corn.
Ramen as a movie star
Ramen is probably the only noodle that made it to movie star status, as the movie The Ramen Girl was all about ramen soup. The movie is a 2008 romantic comedy film directed by Robert Allan Ackerman and starring Brittany Murphy, Toshiyuki Nishida, Gavin Rossdale, and Togo Igawa. The movie follows the story of Abby (Murphy), an American girl who moves to Tokyo in search of true love after her boyfriend dumps her.
However, she is soon taken under the wing of a master who teaches her the art of ramen-making. With his help, Abby embarks on an adventure that ultimately leads to true love and self-acceptance. The movie captures the fun of cooking while exploring themes such as identity, culture, friendship, and romance.
So why not give The Ramen Girl a try? With its charming story and beautiful visuals, this heart-warming film is sure to make you smile.
The most expensive places to eat ramen
The most exquise, and expensive, ramen restaurants in the world you will probably find in the Shibuya district in Tokyo, Japan. Eating here is an experience unlike any other. Some of the restaurants have a cozy atmosphere that makes you feel like you’re dining in someone’s home, with traditional Japanese decor and furniture. The noodles are cooked to perfection and each bowl is carefully crafted with thoughtfully sourced ingredients like slow-cooked pork belly, wagyu beef, mushrooms, fish cake, and corn.
From Japan to the world, ramen has become an international sensation. Whether you’re in a new city or just looking for something to do with your friends, there’s nothing quite like enjoying a bowl of noodle soup together. The endless combinations of toppings and broths make it a dish that is both familiar and new, always exciting and enjoyable.
Whether you choose to visit a restaurant or make your own unique version at home, one thing is certain: you won’t be disappointed with this tasty and versatile dish.
