Tokyo is home to thousands of ramen shops that offer different types of ramen, making it a must-visit city for any food lover. Before exploring, research the most popular ramen shops in Tokyo and their menu, and decide on the type of ramen to try. Common ramen types include shoyu, miso, tonkotsu, and shio. Each type has a unique taste and flavor, so try different types during your exploration. Add toppings such as nori, negi, chashu, or ajitama to enhance the flavor. Be prepared for queues because it is a popular dish; a simple homemade ramen recipe is also included.
Exploring the Many Varieties of Ramen in Tokyo
Introduction
Being a staple in Japanese cuisine, ramen has become one of the most popular dishes across the globe.
While ramen can be found in many countries around the world, it’s undoubtedly a must-eat dish in its homeland, Japan!
If you’re visiting Tokyo, you have many options to explore the world of ramen, since the city is home to thousands of ramen shops that offer different types of ramen.
Step by Step Guide for Exploring Ramen in Tokyo
Step 1: Research Ramen Shops
Before embarking on your ramen exploration journey, it’s crucial to do your research and check out the best and most popular ramen shops in Tokyo.
You can check out online reviews, testimonials, recommendations from locals, and even consult with travel guides to have an idea of which shops to visit.
Here are a couple of the most renowned ramen shops in Tokyo:
- Ippudo Ramen: This is a Japanese chain that has expanded across the world, offering one of the best tonkotsu ramen broths.
- Afuri Ramen: This shop is famous for its citrusy yuzu flavor that gives its broth a unique taste.
- Tsuta Ramen: It’s the first ramen restaurant in the world to get a Michelin star. This restaurant offers a unique bowl of ramen with truffle oil and soy sauce flavor.
Step 2: Choose Your Ramen Type
After researching the most popular ramen shops in Tokyo, you need to decide on which type of ramen to try.
Here are some common ramen types you’ll find in Tokyo:
- Shoyu ramen: A ramen that’s flavored with soy sauce broth.
- Miso ramen: A ramen that’s flavored with miso paste broth.
- Tonkotsu ramen: A ramen that’s made with pork bones broth.
- Shio ramen: A ramen that’s flavored with salt broth.
Each ramen type has its unique taste and flavor, so it’s essential to try different types during your ramen exploration in Tokyo.
Step 3: Choose Your Toppings
After deciding on the type of ramen you’re going to try, you need to decide on the toppings you want to add to your ramen bowl.
Some popular toppings include:
- Nori: Dried seaweed that adds a salty flavor to the broth.
- Negi: Chopped green onion that gives a sharp taste to the broth.
- Chashu: Braised pork belly that adds a meaty flavor to the broth.
- Ajitama: Seasoned boiled egg that adds a creamy texture to the broth.
It’s essential to note that some ramen shops have limited or specific toppings, so it’s better to check their menu before visiting.
Step 4: Be Prepared for the Queues
Since ramen is a popular dish in Tokyo, you might have to wait in line for a while before getting a seat at the restaurant.
Some shops even have a waiting list, so prepare to spend some time waiting to taste the delicious bowl of ramen.
You can use this waiting time to read up on the different options and decide on which to order, or even chat with the locals in line, they might give you some insider tips.
Recipe for a Simple Homemade Ramen Bowl
If you’re not in the mood to go out and explore Tokyo’s ramen restaurants, you can easily make a simple ramen bowl at home with this recipe:
- Ingredients:
- 2 packs of dry ramen noodles
- 4 cups of chicken broth
- 1 tbsp of soy sauce
- 1 tbsp of mirin
- 1 tbsp of sesame oil
- Instructions:
- Boil the ramen noodles according to the package instructions, then drain and rinse them under cold water.
- In a pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil.
- Add soy sauce, mirin, and sesame oil to the pot and stir.
- Place the cooked noodles in a bowl and pour the broth over them.
- Add your toppings, such as sliced scallions, boiled egg, and sliced pork, and serve.
Conclusion
Exploring the different types of ramen in Tokyo is an excellent adventure for any food lover.
With endless options of ramen shops offering different types of ramen with unique flavors, toppings, and styles, you’ll never run out of options.
Whether you’re visiting Tokyo or trying to make a simple ramen bowl at home, use this guide as a reference, and you’re sure to get the most out of your ramen experience.