Are you tired of the same old ramen seasoning packet? Are you looking to add a little something extra to your bowl of noodles? Ramen is a popular Japanese dish that has gained fame worldwide. It consists of delicious broth paired with noodles.
Eating ramen with chopsticks might be a bit tricky at first, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll find it addictive. Contrary to what you might think, slurping your ramen is actually encouraged, and the most satisfying part is sipping the flavorful broth straight from the bowl.
While many people stick to the pre-packaged spices that come with instant ramen, you can take your ramen to the next level by adding your own spices. In this article, we’ll explore some tips and tricks for spice to add to ramen, the Japanese way, to make it even more delicious.
10 Spices to Spice up Your Ramen
1. Black Pepper
Kick up the heat by sprinkling some black pepper on your ramen. It adds a distinct flavor that can help combat a cold or liven up a bland bowl.
2. Miso Seasoning
Create a rich and thick broth by incorporating miso seasoning. This soybean paste comes in white and red varieties, each offering a slightly different taste due to the fermentation process. It’s perfect for making miso ramen.
3. Furikake
This popular Japanese rice seasoning is a fantastic addition to ramen. It contains a mix of sesame seeds, fish flakes, bonito flakes, and seaweed, providing umami flavor, crunchiness, and texture.
4. Sesame Seeds or Oil
Sprinkle some sesame seeds on your ramen for added flavor and visual appeal. Alternatively, drizzle a bit of sesame oil to give your ramen a glossy finish and a nutty undertone.
5. Garlic
If you’re a garlic lover, don’t be afraid to add some minced, grated, crushed, or powdered garlic to your ramen. It infuses the dish with a wonderful aroma and enhances the overall taste.
6. Yuzu Kosho
Experience a unique spicy and citrusy flavor with yuzu kosho, a Japanese seasoning made from yuzu peels, salt, and chili peppers. It offers a tangy kick with a hint of bitterness.
7. Ginger
Ginger adds a delightful zing to your ramen. Whether you use powdered ginger or thinly sliced fresh ginger, it brings a refreshing spiciness to the dish. Consider adding it towards the end of the cooking process for maximum flavor.
8. Shichimi Togarashi
This blend of seven spices includes black pepper, nori (seaweed), garlic, sesame seeds, and poppy seeds. It provides a deliciously spicy and savory profile that enhances the overall taste of your ramen.
9. Sansho Pepper
Give your ramen a distinctive aroma and a mild tang by incorporating sansho pepper. It adds warmth and a citrusy flavor similar to yuzu fruit. Some people even claim it has a slight numbing effect on the mouth.
10. Butter
Although not a typical spice, a pat of butter can work wonders for your ramen. It gives the broth a creamy and velvety texture while enhancing the flavors. It’s a perfect addition if you want your ramen to have a little richness without overwhelming spiciness.
By experimenting with these spices, you can create a customized bowl of ramen that suits your taste preferences. Whether you purchase them from stores or make them at home, these spices will elevate your ramen game to new heights.
Conclusion
Don’t settle for bland instant ramen. Add a touch of spice to your ramen and embark on a flavor-packed journey. With the right combination of spices, your ramen will transform into a culinary masterpiece that will leave your taste buds craving for more. So, go ahead, get creative, and spice up your ramen today!