I love ramen, and I’m not talking about the instant kind in a cup (although there is a time and place for that too).  When my husband and I travel back to Japan, one of the things we do is frequent ramen shops.  The best ones are usually the corner shops where the owner is in the kitchen, smoking and cooking.  Ahh yes, the local places…

So, let’s go on a journey, a Ramen Fest, if you will.  Why?  Cause it’s yummy!

This is the menu.  Yes, there is only one item.  I was a little confused the first time I went to this restaurant (which is in Morioka, Japan).  Basically you walk in the restaurant and tell them how many you want, and then they serve you…

This is called Shoyu Ramen.  Take a minute to soak it in…

This is a combination of Tonkotsu and Shoyu Ramen.  That meat on top?  It’s called “Chashu” and it’s glorious.  Think pork roast, braised in a ginger, garlic soy sauce type broth.  Oh yeah, it’s good.

This was from a mall in Saitama, outside Tokyo.  A mall?  Yes, a mall.  This is another Shoyu Ramen, and so far, in my Ramen Quest, this is the best.ev.er.

That ends this session of “Ramen Fest”.  You can bet I’ll post again when I have more to share.

Have you had ramen or a recipe to share?  Leave a comment and share the ramen love!