ramen
Ramen is a Japanese noodle soup dish consisting of wheat-based noodles served in a meat or fish-based broth, often flavored with soy sauce or miso. The mental image is a steaming, fragrant bowl topped with slices of pork, a soft-boiled egg, nori, and scallions, symbolizing comfort and culinary craftsmanship. While it originated from Chinese wheat noodles, it has evolved into a distinct cultural icon in Japan. It is typically enjoyed in casual, fast-paced shops where the sound of slurping is actually encouraged as a sign of appreciation for the chef.
In conversation
Deciding on dinner
I'm starving. Should we grab some ramen tonight?
I'm starving. Should we grab some ramen tonight?
Yes! I know a great spot downtown that makes their own noodles.
Yes! I know a great spot downtown that makes their own noodles.
Used to suggest a casual meal out.
At the restaurant
One tonkotsu ramen for you. Careful, the bowl is hot.
One tonkotsu ramen for you. Careful, the bowl is hot.
Wow, this broth smells incredible. Thanks!
Wow, this broth smells incredible. Thanks!
Refers to a specific style of pork-based broth.
Examples
I love eating ramen on a cold winter day.
I love eating ramen on a cold winter day.
The chef spent twelve hours simmering the broth for the perfect bowl of ramen.
The chef spent twelve hours simmering the broth for the perfect bowl of ramen.
Despite its humble origins, ramen has become a sophisticated culinary art form enjoyed worldwide.
Despite its humble origins, ramen has become a sophisticated culinary art form enjoyed worldwide.
