Japanese 240 min

Tonkotsu Ramen

comfort-foodhigh-proteindairy-free

Ingredientsfor 2

680

Cal

42g

Protein

52g

Carbs

28g

Fat

Order ingredients on Instacart

Instructions

  1. 1

    Blanch pork bones and trotters: place in a pot, cover with cold water, bring to a boil, and cook 5 minutes. Drain and rinse each bone under cold water to remove grey impurities — this step is essential for a clean, milky broth.

  2. 2

    Return cleaned bones to pot with 8 cups fresh water, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a vigorous boil over high heat, then maintain a rolling boil for 3–4 hours, adding water as needed. The aggressive boil emulsifies collagen and creates the signature creamy white color.

  3. 3

    Strain broth through a fine mesh sieve. Season with soy sauce and mirin. The broth should be rich, creamy white, and coat the back of a spoon. If thin, reduce over medium heat for 20–30 minutes.

  4. 4

    For chashu: roll pork belly tightly, tie with kitchen twine, and sear in a hot pan until browned on all sides. Braise in 3 tablespoons soy sauce, 2 tablespoons mirin, 1 tablespoon sugar, and 1/2 cup water for 90 minutes until tender. Slice into 1/2-inch rounds.

  5. 5

    Cook ramen noodles in boiling water, usually 90 seconds for fresh. Drain well. Ladle hot broth into warmed bowls, add noodles, then top with chashu, halved soft-boiled egg, nori, corn, bamboo shoots, and green onions. Finish with black garlic oil.