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Shio Ramen is a classic and beloved Japanese noodle dish that brings together the flavors of a delicate and savory broth, chewy ramen noodles, and an array of toppings that tantalize the taste buds. Known for its light yet flavorful soup base, Shio Ramen is a favorite among ramen enthusiasts seeking a more delicate and balanced broth. In this blog post, we’ll take you on a culinary journey to create your very own bowl of Shio Ramen at home. From the history of this traditional dish to the step-by-step instructions, we’ve got you covered. So, put on your apron and let’s explore the delightful world of Shio Ramen!
Shio Ramen is a classic Japanese noodle soup known for its clear and salty broth. This beloved dish has its origins in Japan and reflects the country’s dedication to precision and balance in culinary arts.
- The term “shio” translates to “salt” in Japanese, and it refers to the primary seasoning used in the broth.
- Shio Ramen is one of the four main regional ramen styles in Japan, alongside shoyu (soy sauce), miso (soybean paste), and tonkotsu (pork bone) ramen. Each style has its unique flavors and ingredients.
- The history of ramen in Japan can be traced back to the late 19th century, with influences from Chinese noodle dishes. Over time, ramen has evolved into a diverse and beloved culinary phenomenon in Japan and worldwide.
Shio Ramen is a testament to the artistry of Japanese cuisine, where simplicity and balance are key, allowing the natural flavors of high-quality ingredients to shine through.
Shio Ramen
Shio Ramen, which translates to "salt ramen," is one of the four main types of ramen commonly enjoyed in Japan. Unlike its counterparts like miso, tonkotsu, and shoyu ramen, Shio Ramen stands out for its clear and light broth. The broth is seasoned primarily with salt, giving it a delicate and well-balanced flavor that allows the other ingredients to shine through. The star of the dish is undoubtedly the ramen noodles, which are cooked to perfection, creating a delightful chewy texture. Toppings like tender slices of chashu pork, nori seaweed, bamboo shoots, and a soft-boiled egg complete the symphony of flavors, making Shio Ramen a culinary masterpiece.
Tools and Equipment
- Large pot: Buy On Amazon
- Small saucepan: Buy On Amazon
- Medium-sized pot: Buy On Amazon
- Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth: Buy On Amazon / Buy On Amazon
- Ramen bowls for serving: Buy On Amazon
Ingredients
For the broth:
For the tare (seasoning):
For the toppings:
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the broth:
In a large pot, combine the chicken bones, pork bones, water, onion, garlic, and ginger.
Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, skimming any foam or impurities that rise to the surface.
Reduce the heat to low and simmer the broth for about 1.5 to 2 hours, until it becomes flavorful and rich.
Make the tare (seasoning):
In a small saucepan, combine the soy sauce, mirin, sake, and sea salt.
Heat the mixture over low heat until the salt dissolves. Remove from heat and set aside.
Cook the ramen noodles:
In a separate medium-sized pot, cook the ramen noodles according to the package instructions.
Drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
Prepare the toppings:
While the broth is simmering, prepare the toppings. Slice the chashu pork, bamboo shoots, and green onions.
Soft-boil the eggs by placing them in a saucepan of boiling water for 6-7 minutes, then immediately transfer them to an ice bath to cool. Peel and set aside.
Strain and season the broth:
Once the broth is ready, strain it through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove any solids.
Return the broth to the pot and stir in the sea salt, bonito flakes, and dried shiitake mushrooms.
Let the broth simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes to infuse the flavors.
Assemble the Shio Ramen:
To assemble the ramen bowls, divide the cooked noodles among 4 serving bowls.
Ladle the hot broth over the noodles, ensuring each bowl gets an equal amount of flavorful liquid.
Drizzle the tare (seasoning) over the broth according to your taste preference.
Add the toppings:
Arrange the chashu pork, bamboo shoots, soft-boiled eggs, nori seaweed, and sliced green onions on top of the noodles.
If desired, sprinkle sesame seeds and drizzle chili oil over the toppings for added flavor and presentation.
Serve and enjoy:
Serve the Shio Ramen immediately while it's hot. Encourage your guests to mix the toppings and broth with the noodles before slurping the delicious concoction.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 1165.17kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 67.48g104%
- Saturated Fat 27.22g137%
- Trans Fat 0.24g
- Cholesterol 302.34mg101%
- Sodium 5877.23mg245%
- Potassium 1217.53mg35%
- Total Carbohydrate 36.82g13%
- Dietary Fiber 2.71g11%
- Sugars 6.84g
- Protein 96.99g194%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Please note that the nutritional values provided are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used. It's always best to double-check with your specific ingredients and measurements for accurate nutritional information.
Note
Tips and Variations:
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the chashu pork with marinated tofu or grilled mushrooms.
- Customize the toppings according to your preferences. Add bean sprouts, corn, or spinach for additional nutrition and texture.
- Adjust the saltiness of the broth by adding more or less sea salt to your taste.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the Shio Ramen with a side of pickled ginger or a Japanese-style cucumber salad for a refreshing accompaniment.
- Pair the ramen with a cup of green tea or a cold Japanese beer for a delightful and authentic dining experience.
Allergen Information:
- Shio Ramen can contain allergens depending on the specific ingredients and toppings used. Common allergens to be aware of include wheat (from the noodles), soy (from soy sauce or miso), and seafood (from the broth or toppings like shrimp or fish cake). Individuals with allergies or dietary restrictions should choose allergen-free alternatives as needed.
Wine or Drink Pairing:
- Shio Ramen is traditionally enjoyed with Japanese green tea, which complements the subtle flavors of the broth and the umami-rich toppings.
- For alcoholic pairings, consider a light and crisp Japanese lager or sake to enhance the overall dining experience.
Storage and Leftovers:
- Shio Ramen is best enjoyed fresh, as the noodles can become soft and absorb too much broth if stored for an extended period.
- If you have leftover shio ramen, you can store the broth and noodles separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for a day or two.
- When reheating, gently warm the broth and briefly blanch the noodles in boiling water to refresh them. Reassemble the ramen just before serving to maintain the desired texture and flavor.
- Leftover shio ramen can also be used as a base for stir-fried noodle dishes or repurposed into a new soup with added ingredients, ensuring that no part of this delicious meal goes to waste.
