Miso Butter Ramen
Introduction to Miso Butter Ramen
Miso Butter Ramen is a delightful fusion of flavors that combines the rich umami taste of miso paste with the creamy indulgence of butter. This dish originates from Hokkaido, the northernmost region of Japan, known for its hearty and warming cuisine. The addition of butter to ramen was popularized in Sapporo, where the cold winters inspired chefs to create a more substantial and comforting meal. Let's explore how you can recreate this delicious bowl at home.
Ingredients
- Ramen Noodles - 200g
- Miso Paste - 3 tablespoons
- Butter - 2 tablespoons
- Chicken Broth - 4 cups
- Ginger - 1 tablespoon, minced
- Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
- Soy Sauce - 1 tablespoon
- Sesame Oil - 1 teaspoon
- Green Onions - 2, chopped
- Sweet Corn - 1/4 cup
- Bean Sprouts - 1/4 cup
- Pork Belly - 100g, sliced
- Hard Boiled Eggs - 2, halved
- Seaweed - Nori sheets, for garnish
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Preparation Steps
Preparing the Ingredients
Begin by assembling your ingredients. Slice the pork belly into thin strips and chop the green onions. Mince the ginger and garlic, which will be the aromatic base for the broth.
Cooking the Broth
In a pot over medium heat, add sesame oil and sauté the garlic and ginger until fragrant. Add the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Now, incorporate the miso paste, stirring until fully dissolved. Add soy sauce for additional flavor complexity.
Cooking the Toppings
In a separate pan, cook the pork belly slices until crispy and golden. Remove and set aside. Using the same pan, slightly sauté the sweet corn and bean sprouts until just tender, enhancing their sweetness and texture.
Bringing It All Together
Cook the ramen noodles according to the package instructions. Once ready, drain and divide them into serving bowls. Pour the hot miso broth over the noodles, ensuring they are well-submerged and heated through.
Adding the Final Touches
- Top each bowl with slices of pork belly, sautéed sweet corn, bean sprouts, and hard boiled eggs.
- Add a dollop of butter on top to melt into the hot broth, enriching its flavor and texture.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of freshly cracked pepper.
- Place a sheet of nori seaweed for added umami.
Cooking Time
From start to finish, this recipe takes about 30 minutes. You can manage your time efficiently by pre-prepping ingredients and using a cooking timer to keep track.
Enjoying Your Miso Butter Ramen
Savor the rich, aromatic flavors by mixing the melted butter into the miso paste broth for a creamy consistency. Enjoy each spoonful with a little bit of everything—succulent pork belly, tender ramen noodles, and crunchy bean sprouts. Pair this ramen with a light sake or Japanese beer for a complete Hokkaido-inspired meal experience.