What is ramen and why is it so popular?

Ramen is one of the most famous dishes of Japanese cuisine, which has won the hearts of gourmets around the world. It is not just noodles in broth, but a whole culture with its own traditions, regional characteristics and history. What is the secret of its popularity?

History of Ramen

The origins of this dish date back to China, where more than four thousand years ago noodles became an alternative to steamed bread and dumplings. Later, the Chinese brought their traditions to Japan, where ramen began to take on a new face. The Japanese improved the recipe by adding Dashi broth, dried seafood, and unique toppings such as Naruto (fish paste).

The real boom in ramen began in the 20th century: in 1910, the first ramen restaurant opened in Tokyo, and in 1958, the Nissin company released the world’s first instant noodles, making the dish even more popular. Over time, ramen has developed regional variations: Sapporo ramen with miso broth, Hakata ramen with rich pork broth Tonkotsu, Kagoshima ramen and many others.

Ramen and its types

Different regions of Japan have their own unique variations of ramen, but the most popular four types are:

1. Shoyu ramen – prepared based on soy sauce, which gives the broth a deep salty taste with a light caramel note. This is one of the most popular options, with a clear, flavorful broth. Katana Ramen Shoyu broth concentrate is ideal for cooking at home.
2. Miso ramen – prepared with the addition of miso paste, which creates a rich, thick and slightly sweet taste. This type of ramen is most often found in cold regions of Japan, as it warms well. Try Katana Ramen Miso broth concentrate for a true Japanese taste.
3. Shio ramen – the lightest and lightest ramen, based on chicken or fish broth. This ramen variant has a mild, natural taste, with the main emphasis on the lightness and purity of the ingredients.
4. Tonkotsu ramen is one of the most rich and popular variants, prepared with a thick, creamy broth formed by simmering pork bones for a long time. Its texture is velvety, and the flavor is deep and rich.
5. Chintan ramen is a broth that remains clear due to controlled slow cooking. It can be chicken, pork, or beef-based and is often used for more sophisticated variations of ramen. Chintan has a mild, rich flavor, and pairs perfectly with light noodles and soy sauce.

What types of noodles are suitable for ramen?

Noodles are one of the key components of ramen, and their choice affects the overall texture and taste of the dish. Types of noodles used in ramen:

• Straight noodles (Chijiremen) – most often used in classic ramen recipes, have a smooth surface and absorb broth well.
• Wavy noodles (Chijirimen) – great for thick broths such as miso or tonkotsu, as they retain sauces and spices better.
• Thin noodles (Hosomen) – used for lighter broths such as sio ramen, where it is important to maintain a subtle flavor.
• Thick noodles (Futomen) – go well with rich broths such as tonkotsu or miso.

Why is ramen so popular?

1. Deep, rich taste. Ramen is a balance of different tastes, the most important of which is umami. Thanks to the long cooking of the broth, it gets a unique rich taste, rich in collagen.
2. A variety of ingredients. This dish can be both simple and a real work of culinary art. Toppings – from traditional to more exotic. Nori, sesame and Katana soy sauce will be ideal additions, which add depth of taste and authenticity to the dish.
3. Availability. Ramen is available both in fashionable restaurants and in small street establishments (which, by the way, often offer the most delicious option!). It can be prepared at home or bought in the supermarket in the form of instant noodles.
4. Culinary experiment. Ramen is not just a dish, but a field for creativity. It can be adapted to any preference: make it vegan, spicy, thicker or lighter.
5. A pop culture phenomenon. Ramen has become a part of Japanese culture, appearing in films, anime and manga. It symbolizes not only delicious food, but also comfort, homeliness and even a certain lifestyle.

How to cook the perfect ramen at home?

If you want to experience the real taste of ramen, try cooking it yourself! You will need:

• Katana Ramen Shoyu broth concentrate or Katana Ramen Miso
• Katana Soy Sauce
• Traditional toppings: Katana nori, boiled egg, green onion, corn, wakame seaweed, Katana sesame seeds

The preparation takes a little time, but the result is definitely worth the effort!
Ramen Recipes

Ramen is more than just a dish. It is a true art that combines taste, tradition and modern culinary trends. Thanks to Katana products you can prepare the perfect authentic ramen at home – quickly, easily and deliciously!