Ingredients

For the broth:

• 4 cups chicken broth
• 4 cups water
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons miso paste
• 1 tablespoon sake (optional)
• 1 tablespoon mirin
• 1 onion, halved
• 4 cloves garlic, smashed
• 1-inch piece of ginger, sliced
• 2 dried shiitake mushrooms
• 1 sheet of kombu (dried kelp)

For the noodles:

• 1 pound fresh ramen noodles (or 4 packs of dried ramen noodles)

For the toppings:

• 2 soft-boiled eggs, halved
• 1 cup cooked chicken or pork, sliced
• 1 cup corn kernels
• 1 cup spinach or bok choy
• 2 green onions, chopped
• Nori (seaweed sheets), cut into strips
• Sesame seeds
• Chili oil (optional)

Instructions

Preparing the Broth

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large pot, combine the chicken broth, water, soy sauce, miso paste, sake, mirin, onion, garlic, ginger, dried shiitake mushrooms, and kombu.

2. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for at least 30 minutes. For a more intense flavor, simmer for up to an hour.

3. Strain: Remove and discard the solids from the broth, leaving a clear, flavorful liquid. Keep the broth warm over low heat.

Preparing the Noodles

4. Cook the Noodles: Cook the ramen noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Assembling the Ramen

5. Prepare the Toppings: Arrange the soft-boiled eggs, cooked meat, corn, spinach or bok choy, green onions, nori strips, sesame seeds, and chili oil on a platter for easy access.

6. Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked noodles among serving bowls. Ladle the hot broth over the noodles.

7. Add Toppings: Top each bowl with the prepared toppings, customizing to taste.

Tips for Perfect Ramen

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ramen noodles and high-quality broth ingredients make a significant difference in flavor.
• Customize Your Bowl: Ramen is highly customizable. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, proteins, and condiments.
• Perfect Soft-Boiled Eggs: Boil eggs for 6-7 minutes, then transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking. This will give you a perfectly soft yolk.

Conclusion

Making ramen at home can be a rewarding culinary adventure. With this simplified recipe, you can enjoy a bowl of rich, savory ramen any time you crave it. Experiment with different toppings and flavors to create your perfect bowl. Happy cooking!

Feel free to adjust the recipe and tips to better suit your preferences or to highlight specific aspects of ramen that you find most intriguing.

If you enjoyed this Asian recipe, you can click HERE to find more recipes that will help you cook your dishes in a simple and fun way.