The 8 Most Popular Types of Ramen You’ll Find Everywhere

In recent years, ramen has ascended from its humble origins to become one of the world's most beloved dishes. Initially cherished for its simplicity and affordability, particularly through instant versions favored by students and singles seeking budget-friendly meals, ramen has evolved. Today, it commands a culinary cult following, with specialized restaurants dotting the globe, dedicated to perfecting this comforting bowl of noodles. But beyond the convenient instant packets, what exactly is ramen? Let’s dive into the rich world of this Japanese culinary treasure.

What is Ramen?

At its core, ramen is a Japanese noodle soup, known for its complex and flavorful broth, chewy wheat noodles, and a variety of toppings such as sliced pork, nori (seaweed), menma (bamboo shoots), and scallions. The essence of ramen lies in its broth and noodles, with the former ranging from light and clear to rich and creamy, and the latter varying in thickness and texture. It’s a dish that masterfully combines taste, texture, and aroma, offering endless possibilities for customization.

The Most Famous Types of Ramen

Ramen comes in several iconic varieties, each boasting a unique flavor profile and regional heritage:

• Shoyu Ramen: This soy sauce-based ramen is known for its clear, brown broth, and balanced, savory flavor. It's a popular choice for ramen newcomers.
• Miso Ramen: Originating from Hokkaido, miso ramen features a rich, nutty broth made from fermented soybean paste, perfect for colder climates.
• Tonkotsu Ramen: Hailing from Kyushu, this ramen’s broth is made from pork bones, boiled until they release their marrow, creating a creamy, white soup that's intensely flavorful.
• Shio Ramen: The simplest among them, shio ramen uses salt to flavor its clear broth, highlighting the quality of its ingredients.

Popular Worldwide Ramen Recipes

While traditional ramen is an art form in itself, the dish’s versatility has led to innovative recipes gaining popularity across the globe:

Tantanmen Ramen

Inspired by Chinese dan dan noodles, Tantanmen offers a spicy, sesame-laden broth with minced pork, making it a favorite for those who enjoy a kick of heat.

Curry Ramen

A delightful fusion dish that combines Japanese curry with ramen, creating a rich, thick, and spicy broth that’s both comforting and invigorating.

Vegan Ramen

Catering to the growing demand for plant-based options, vegan ramen uses mushroom or vegetable broth, with toppings like tofu and seasonal vegetables.

Tsukemen

This deconstructed ramen presents cold noodles alongside a separate bowl of hot, concentrated broth for dipping, offering a unique and interactive eating experience.