Ramen is one of the world’s favourite foods, which is often associated with a satisfying meal or a healthier option. It is also one of the iconic Japanese noodle soup dishes that is known for its rich broth, variety of ingredients, and topping. For college days, eating them in your dorm after the cafeteria closed, gives a nostalgic feeling.
There are so many ways to enjoy this dish, from the elegant ramen that can be found in high-end Japanese ramen bars to streetside fast food. You can also easily prepare a good bowl of ramen at home.
But have you ever considered what exactly ramen is? Where does ramen come from? Or why has ramen gained popularity? If so, here is everything you should know about this iconic Japanese noodle dish, including its definition, history, origins, preparation methods, etc.
So let’s explore how this beloved Japanese dish has captivated taste buds around the world.
What is Ramen?
In short, ramen is a noodle soup dish that is not only most popular in Japan but also all around the world. This dish is an ideal option for budget travellers because it is both inexpensive and widely available. Typically, you can find this noodle dish at every ramen restaurant or in every corner of London. This country produces different types of ramen.
In addition, most people in the US and other Western countries attribute ramen to packages of dried noodles; in Japan, it is so much more. Fresh ingredients, usually piping hot and comforting, accompany this delicious dish in Japan.
What Are Ramen Noodles?
Usually, ramen noodles are little bricks of dried noodles that come with a flavour packet. However, the sodium content is significantly high, and the nutritional values are provided.
Despite the wide variety of options, the core of these ramen noodles consists of a broth base, various toppings, and long, thin wheat noodles. Moreover, in the US, the dried content of brightly coloured packaging plays a major role.
The History of Ramen
Though ramen has a long and storied history in Japan, it first originated in China. It is generally believed that Chinese immigrants brought the dish to Japan in the late 19th century or the early 20th century.
This dish was originally known as “shina soba” (Chinese soba), but it has evolved into what we know as ramen today. The affordability and heartiness of ramen made it a staple food among the Japanese working class.
Over the decades, ramen continued to grow, with regional variations emerging across Japan, each adding unique local ingredients and flavours to the basic recipe.
Where Did Ramen Originate?
Ramen usually originated in China, but it became uniquely Japanese through its adaptation and evolution. The first ramen shops in Japan appeared in the early 20th century, catering primarily to workers and students in bustling urban areas.
Over time, ramen shops became cultural hubs, offering an affordable and satisfying meal. Today, ramen is considered a quintessential part of Japanese cuisine, with each region boasting its speciality.
To better understand, let’s take a closer look at how this beloved dish has captured the taste buds of people worldwide.
- In 1884, ramen was first sold.
- In 1910, the first ramen shop opened.
- In 1927, Kitakata ramen wasinvented.
- In 1937, Tonkotsu ramen was invented.
- In 1953, miso ramen was invented.
- In 1954, Abura Soba was invented.
- In 1955, Tsukemen was invented.
- In 1958, instant ramen was invented.
- In 1968, Ramen Jiro made its debut.
- In 1971, cup noodles were invented.
What is ramen made of?
In general, each ramen bowl involves six main ingredients, such as noodles (made from wheat flour, salt, water, and a special alkaline water known as Kansui), broth (a blend of Japanese soup stock and chicken stock), fats, oils, flavoured with soy sauce, and toppings (fried veggies, sliced meat, and sheets of seaweed).
In ramen, noodle soup is made with Chukamen or Chinese wheat noodles. Also, they are served in a rich and delicious broth, combined with a flavouring sauce. In addition to a variety of toppings, this dish incorporates meat and vibrant vegetables, making it relatively simple to prepare.
What types of ramen are there?
You can find many different styles of ramen everywhere, but five main types of ramen are common and categorized by seasoning:
- Shio Ramen
- Shoyu Ramen
- Miso Ramen
- Tonkotsu Ramen
- Instant Ramen
Shio Ramen
The broth of this shio ramen dish is light and clear, heavily seasoned with salt. Typically, shio ramen is made with chicken broth and flavoured with other meats. Still, its popularity is mainly due to the salted broth.
Shoyu Ramen
Shoyu ramen soup is the most common type of ramen that features a soy sauce-based soup. Usually made with chicken broth, the soup has a clear brown broth flavour, but depending on the region, it often contains other meats. A few of the most popular ramen toppings included in this dish are marinated soft-boiled eggs, corn, bean sprouts, and bamboo shoots.
Miso Ramen
This miso ramen soup is flavoured with soybean paste, resulting in a thick, brown soup with a rich and complex flavour. Aside from that, it has a delicious umami flavour. The long, cold winters on Hokkaido also prompted the development of a heartier type of soup, which is why this style originated there. However, it has become ubiquitous throughout Japan.
Tonkotsu Ramen
This dish features a flavorful broth that is incredibly famous in Japan and worldwide. Fukuoka prefecture on Kyushu Island, where it originated, typically serves this dish in a fatty, golden pork bones broth known as Hakata ramen.
Instant Ramen
It consists of dried instant noodles and a flavouring packet, which can be rehydrated with boiling water. In 1958, Japan invented ready-to-eat ramen soup. Grocery stores worldwide also carry it.
Ramen’s Cultural Significance
The Japanese dish ramen is more than just a meal. It is also a cultural phenomenon, its versatility allowing it to adapt to modern culinary trends. In both casual and fine dining settings, ramen has become a mainstay. For example, the United States has welcomed it with open arms. In addition, it has sparked an increase in ramen eateries and innovative culinary interpretations by chefs.
Are ramen noodles beneficial for health?
The nutritional value of ramen noodles is not high, yet they are neither inherently healthy nor unhealthy. In addition to carbohydrates and protein, these dishes contain vitamins B and iron, as well as micronutrients.
Indeed, it may not be the healthiest choice available. According to the founder of Street Smart Nutrition, Cara Harbstreet, “Ramen noodles may be high in sodium and may not provide much in the way of whole grains, fibre, and vitamins.” Moreover, they serve as a cost-effective and convenient energy source.
How to eat ramen noodles like a pro?
There are numerous ways to enjoy ramen. But the most crucial aspect is to consume both the noodles and the broth simultaneously. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to successfully slurp your ramen.
Step 1: First hold your chopsticks in your hand, then put the ramen ladle in your other.
Step 2: Enjoy the aroma of this dish.
Step 3: Then mix the toppings and noodles.
Step 4: Use chopsticks to pick up the noodles and use a spoon to ladle in some broth.
Step 5: After finishing the noodles, use a spoon to slurp up the broth.
Step 6: Next, pick up some of the toppings and eat them with your chopsticks.
Step 7: Finally place your chopsticks on the rim.
Things to avoid when eating ramen
While enjoying ramen noodles is an exciting endeavour, it’s important to consider a few factors, such as:
- Make sure that you have your hair tied. Exposing your hair to the oils of ramen can be unpleasant for both you and those in your vicinity.
- Another thing to consider is the basic manners you should follow, such as eating with your mouth closed.
- You should not let your ramen sit on the table for a long time. As soon as it finishes cooking, savour it.
Is Ramen Halal or Haram in Islam?
Whether ramen is halal or haram depends largely on the ingredients used. Traditional ramen often contains pork or pork-based broth, which is haram for Muslims. Additionally, some broths may use alcohol-based seasonings, which are also considered haram.
However, halal ramen options do exist. To be considered halal, the ramen must use ingredients that comply with Islamic dietary laws. This entails utilizing halal-slaughter chicken or beef, halal meat or seafood, and guaranteeing the absence of alcohol in the preparation process.
For those seeking halal ramen, it’s essential to verify the ingredients or choose restaurants such as Negi & Nori that specifically cater to halal diets. So if you’re looking for Halal ramen in London, Negi & Nori is the best restaurant.
At Negi & Nori, we offer a selection of halal ramen that maintains the rich flavours and textures of traditional ramen without compromising on dietary restrictions.
Here are some of the most popular ramen meals available at Negi & Nori Restaurant:
- Shoyu Ramen
- Vegan Tonkatsu Ramen
- Miso Chicken Ramen
- Mushroom Ramen
- Tonkotsu Ramen
- Chicken Tantamen Ramen
- Yasai Tantamen Ramen
Final Word
This is our comprehensive guide about “what is ramen.” Hopefully, now you understand everything. So in summary, we have found that ramen is a dish steeped in history, culture, and flavour. From Chinese origins to Japanese growth, ramen has become a global culinary icon with countless variations.
At Negi & Nori, we are proud to offer a range of ramen options, including halal choices, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the comforting warmth of a delicious bowl of ramen. Visit us to experience the authentic taste of Japan.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is traditional Japanese ramen?
The classic method of making traditional Japanese ramen involves using the most basic ingredients. It can take a lot of time to make, unlike pre-packaged ramen, which can be made quickly. Each ingredient, from the soup to the noodles to the toppings, requires a lot of time to prepare.
Why are noodles called ramen?
Ramen noodles are called so because they are made from “hand-pulled noodles,” which is the Japanese translation of the Chinese word “lamian.” As the dish originated in China, so does the name. In addition to its Japanese adaptation, it has become an integral part of Japanese cuisine.
What makes ramen so popular worldwide?
Rames’ popularity typically stems from its rich, flavorful, and versatile nature. Combining savoury broth, various toppings, and chewy noodles creates a customizable and satisfying dining experience. Furthermore, globalization’s support for cultural exchange has led to the widespread emergence of diverse cuisines.
When does instant ramen originate?
In 1958, Momofuku Ando, the creator of Nissin Foods, created instant ramen noodles for the first time. He discovered that by fringing the noodles in oil, he could store them easily. Although it cost more than a fresh bowl of ramen, the price eventually dropped due to the high demand.
What kind of food is ramen?
Simply put, it is a Japanese noodle soup that has a perfect combination of a rich flavoured broth, a variety of noodles, and a wide selection of meats and vegetables.