How to Make Japanese Ramen Soup from Scratch

Japanese ramen soup is a delicious and comforting dish that has gained popularity around the world. Making ramen from scratch might seem daunting, but with the right ingredients and techniques, you can create a rich and flavorful broth that will impress your family and friends. Follow this guide to learn how to make authentic Japanese ramen soup from scratch.

Ingredients for Ramen Broth

To make a basic ramen soup, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 2 pounds of pork bones (preferably neck bones or trotters)
  • 1 onion, halved
  • 1 head of garlic, cut in half
  • 1 piece of ginger (2 inches), sliced
  • 5 green onions
  • 4 liters of water
  • 1/4 cup of soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons of miso paste (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bones

Start by blanching the pork bones. Place them in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Bring the water to a boil and let it cook for about 5 minutes. This process helps to remove impurities and excess fat. Drain the bones and rinse them under cold water.

Step 2: Make the Broth

In a large stockpot, add the blanched bones, onion, garlic, ginger, and green onions. Pour in the 4 liters of water. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot with a lid, allowing it to simmer for at least 4 to 6 hours. For an even richer flavor, simmer for up to 12 hours, adding water as necessary to keep the bones submerged.

Step 3: Strain the Broth

Once the broth has simmered to your desired taste, remove it from the heat. Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into another pot to remove the solids. Discard the solids, and return the clear broth to the heat.

Step 4: Season the Broth

Add the soy sauce and miso paste to the strained broth. Stir well to combine and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Preparing Ramen Noodles

You can use store-bought ramen noodles for convenience, but making your own is a rewarding experience. For homemade noodles, you will need:

  • 2 cups of all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup of water
  • 1 tsp of kansui (alkaline mineral water)

Step 1: Make the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine flour, kansui, and water. Knead the mixture until you achieve a firm dough. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Roll and Cut the Noodles

After resting, roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface until thin. Cut the dough into thin strips to form the noodles. Dust the noodles with flour to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Cook the Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the noodles and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

Assembling Your Ramen Bowl

To serve your ramen, place a serving of noodles in a bowl, pour the hot broth over them, and garnish with your favorite toppings. Popular toppings include:

  • Chashu (braised pork)
  • Soft-boiled eggs
  • Nori (seaweed)
  • Menma (bamboo shoots)
  • Bok choy or spinach
  • Chopped green onions

Garnish your ramen bowl according to your preference and enjoy your homemade Japanese ramen soup!

Creating ramen from scratch is a labor of love that truly pays off in taste. With this guide, you can master the art of ramen and impress your guests with