You must have observed the difference between the taste of a restaurant and homemade ramen. The earlier one carries a savory, umami-rich flavor with multiple ingredients carrying a rich taste. However, if you want to achieve this, you must add special spices for ramen to the cuisine. These natural herbs offer a distinct savor and can be personalized as per the developed likeness. They are extremely healthy and make your ramen more delicious than ever. Here are a few spices you can add to your ramen to elevate its taste.
Popular spices for ramen
Garlic Powder
Garlic powder is a staple in many kitchens, and it is an excellent addition to the spices for ramen. It adds a subtle, but distinct, garlic flavor that complements the other spices and ingredients in the soup. Garlic powder is also a great way to add flavor without adding too much heat, making it an excellent choice for those who want a milder spice.
Chili Powder
Chili powder is another great spice for ramen. It adds a bit of heat and a smoky flavor to the soup. It can be used in moderation for those who prefer a milder spice or added liberally for those who enjoy a spicier bowl of noodles.
Ginger Powder
Ginger powder is a great spice to add to ramen for its unique flavor and health benefits. It has a slightly sweet and spicy taste that complements the other flavors in the soup. The powder is also known for its anti-inflammatory properties, making it an excellent choice for those looking to add more nutrients to their vegan ramen.
Sesame Seeds
Sesame seeds are a great addition to ramen for their nutty and slightly sweet flavor. They also add a bit of crunch to the soup, which can make it more satisfying. These seeds are also a good source of healthy fats, making them an excellent choice for those looking to add more nutrition to their diet.
Cumin
Cumin is a spice that is often used in Mexican and Indian cuisine, but it can also be used in ramen for its warm and earthy flavor. It adds a bit of depth to the soup and can help balance out the other spices and flavors. The spice is also a good source of iron and other nutrients.
Nori seaweed
This is another popular ingredient in Japanese cuisine that can add a unique flavor to your ramen. It has a slightly salty and earthy taste and is rich in umami flavor, which is one of the five basic tastes, along with sweet, sour, bitter, and salty. To use nori in your homemade ramen, cut it into thin strips and sprinkle it on top of the broth.
Shichimi Togarashi
Shichimi Togarashi is a Japanese spice blend that is a must-have in any ramen lover’s pantry. This spice blend typically contains seven different ingredients, including chili pepper, sesame seeds, ginger, and orange peel. It adds a spicy kick to the broth and can also be used as a seasoning for the noodles. Sprinkle the spice on top of the noodles and broth or add it to the broth while cooking.
Bonito flakes
Bonito flakes, also known as katsuobushi, have a distinct savory, umami flavor that can add depth and complexity to the broth of ramen. The flakes are made from dried, smoked bonito fish, which are shaved into thin, delicate pieces. When added to the hot broth, the flakes release their flavor and aroma, creating a rich, smoky taste that complements the other ingredients in the ramen.
Conclusion
Different spices for ramen add a unique flavor to the dish and can be customized as per your taste. Be it subtle or smoky taste, these spices work magic.