5 toppings that work great with our soy sauce ramen flavor
Unleash the umami magic of Mike's Mighty Good Soy Sauce Ramen with these 5 creative topping ideas! Inspired by the shoyu broth at all our favorite ramen bars, our delicate, savory, and slightly sweet Soy Sauce Vegan Craft Ramen is fantastic for plant-lovers and meat-eaters alike and is ready in just minutes. The rich umami profile of soy sauce in the broth sets the stage for an elevated dining experience. To enhance your bowl of ramen, consider adding these five delicious toppings, each crafted with soy sauce as a key sub-ingredient. These toppings will not only complement your ramen but also amplify its umami depth, taking your meal to the next level.
- Soy Sauce Braised Pork Belly (Chashu)
One of the most beloved ramen toppings is chashu, a tender and flavorful braised pork belly. To make soy sauce braised pork belly, start by marinating the pork in a mixture of soy sauce, sake, mirin, sugar, and aromatics like garlic and ginger. The soy sauce imparts a rich, savory flavor, while the slow braising process ensures the meat becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender. The result is a delectable topping that adds a satisfying richness to your ramen bowl. Thinly slice the chashu and lay it on top of your ramen just before serving to experience the ultimate umami boost.
- Soy Sauce Marinated Soft-Boiled Eggs (Ajitsuke Tamago)
A well-made ajitsuke tamago, or marinated soft-boiled egg, is a quintessential ramen topping. The creamy yolk and savory marinated whites provide a perfect contrast to the noodles and broth. To prepare, cook the eggs to a slightly runny consistency and then marinate them in a blend of soy sauce, mirin, and a bit of water. The soy sauce infuses the eggs with a deep umami flavor, enhancing their natural richness. Slice the marinated eggs in half and place them atop your ramen for a visually appealing and taste-enhancing addition.
- Soy Sauce Sautéed Mushrooms
Mushrooms are a fantastic way to introduce earthy flavors and additional umami to your ramen. For this topping, choose a mix of mushrooms such as shiitake, cremini, and enoki. Sauté the mushrooms in a bit of oil until they are golden brown and tender. Finish by deglazing the pan with a splash of soy sauce, which will caramelize and coat the mushrooms, adding a savory depth. The soy sauce sautéed mushrooms bring a delightful texture and a burst of umami that pairs perfectly with the soy sauce ramen broth.
- Soy Sauce Glazed Bamboo Shoots (Menma)
Menma, or fermented bamboo shoots, is a classic ramen topping known for its crunchy texture and umami-rich flavor. To make soy sauce glazed bamboo shoots, start by rinsing and boiling canned bamboo shoots to reduce their natural bitterness. Then, sauté the bamboo shoots in a mixture of soy sauce, sesame oil, and a touch of sugar until they are well-coated and slightly caramelized. This preparation enhances the natural flavors of the bamboo shoots, making them a perfect crunchy addition to your ramen. The soy sauce glaze ties in seamlessly with the ramen broth, creating a harmonious flavor profile.
- Soy Sauce Pickled Vegetables (Tsukemono)
Pickled vegetables, or tsukemono, add a refreshing and tangy contrast to the rich flavors of ramen. To create soy sauce pickled vegetables, choose a variety of crisp vegetables such as cucumbers, carrots, and daikon radish. Slice the vegetables thinly and marinate them in a mixture of soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Allow the vegetables to pickle for a few hours or overnight. The resulting tsukemono offers a balance of acidity and umami that cuts through the richness of the ramen, providing a delightful contrast in both texture and flavor.
Each of these soy sauce-infused toppings brings its unique character to Mike's Mighty Good Soy Sauce Ramen. The braised pork belly adds richness and depth, while the marinated eggs offer a creamy and savory delight. Sautéed mushrooms introduce an earthy umami, glazed bamboo shoots provide a satisfying crunch, and pickled vegetables deliver a refreshing tang. Together, these toppings can transform a simple bowl of ramen into a gourmet experience.
