Karaka Tantan Tonkotsu Ramen Noodle Soup Recipe – Japanese Special
Karaka Tantan Tonkotsu Ramen is a bold fusion of Japanese and Chinese flavors, combining the creamy richness of tonkotsu (pork bone broth) with the spicy, nutty depth of tantan-style toppings. This hearty noodle soup features chewy ramen noodles, savory ground pork simmered in a spicy bean paste sauce, and a fragrant broth infused with sesame oil and miso. Perfect for spice enthusiasts, this dish delivers a comforting bowl with a fiery kick, bringing restaurant-quality flavors to your home kitchen.
- Prep Time20 min
- Cook Time40 min
- Total Time1 hr
For the Broth:
- 4 cups tonkotsu broth (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup chicken broth (optional, to lighten)
- 1 tablespoon white miso paste
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
For the Karaka Tantan Topping:
- 200g ground pork
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon doubanjiang (spicy bean paste)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon mirin
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame paste or peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon chili oil (adjust to heat preference)
For the Ramen:
- 2 servings fresh ramen noodles
- 2 soft-boiled eggs (halved)
- Chopped green onions
- Toasted sesame seeds
- Nori sheets (optional)
- Blanched bok choy or spinach (optional)
Prepare the Tantan Pork Topping:
Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add garlic and ginger; sauté until fragrant.
Add ground pork and cook until browned.
Stir in doubanjiang, soy sauce, mirin, sugar, sesame paste, and chili oil.
Simmer for 3–5 minutes until thickened. Set aside.
Make the Broth:
In a pot, bring tonkotsu broth (and optional chicken broth) to a simmer.
Stir in miso paste, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
Keep warm on low heat.
Cook the Noodles:
Boil ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Assemble the Ramen:
Divide noodles between bowls.
Pour hot broth over noodles.
Top with spicy pork mixture, soft-boiled egg halves, green onions, and sesame seeds.
Add nori or greens if using. Drizzle with extra chili oil for more heat.
Recipe Notes :
Broth Base: Use store-bought tonkotsu broth for convenience or make your own by simmering pork bones for several hours.
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili oil and doubanjiang (spicy bean paste) to suit your heat preference.
Nutty Flavor: For an authentic taste, use sesame paste; peanut butter can be substituted if sesame paste is unavailable.
Toppings: Customize with soft-boiled eggs, chopped green onions, toasted sesame seeds, nori sheets, or blanched bok choy for added flavor and texture.
Noodles: Fresh ramen noodles are ideal, but dried noodles can be used as a substitute.
