What is ramen?
Ramen is a Japanese noodle dish that has become loved all over the world. The dish consists of thin, wavy or straight noodles served in a hot, flavorful broth. It is a simple yet incredibly satisfying dish that can be prepared in countless ways.
The word "ramen" refers both to the noodles themselves and to the dish as a whole. The noodles are made from wheat flour, salt, water and often egg. They have a unique texture that turns out perfect when cooked in broth – not too soft, not too firm, but just right.
The broth – the heart of ramen
The broth is what makes ramen special. It can be made in many ways, and this is where master cooks really shine. Some make broth from chicken, others from pork or seafood. Some use kombu and bonito for a deeper, more umami-rich flavor. The broth can simmer for hours to draw out all the flavor from the ingredients.
Toppings that make the difference
What really makes ramen interesting is the toppings. Classic toppings include:
- Chashu – tender, caramelized pork
- Ajitsuke tamago – marinated egg with a runny yolk
- Nori – dried seaweed
- Spring onions – for freshness and color
- Bamboo shoots – for texture
- Corn – sweet and juicy
Each topping contributes its own flavor and texture, and together they create a harmonious dish.
Different ramen styles
There are several classic ramen styles. Tonkotsu is made with pork broth and is known for its rich, creamy flavor. Shoyu ramen uses soy sauce as its main seasoning. Miso ramen has a deeper, more complex flavor from the miso paste. Shio ramen is lighter and more salt-based.
Ramen is more than just a dish – it is a culinary tradition that keeps evolving. Whether you like it classic or with modern twists, ramen is a dish that satisfies both body and soul.
Buy ramen at FUDI
We carry around 150 varieties in our ramen range – from Japanese instant ramen to fresh noodles and broth bases. Also see all our noodles, miso and Asian sauces. Want to make it from scratch? Follow our recipe for authentic ramen at home.
