Karaka Tantan Tonkotsu Ramen Noodle Soup Recipe – Japanese Special
Karaka Tantan Tonkotsu Ramen is a bold and flavorful Japanese noodle soup that blends the creamy richness of tonkotsu (pork bone broth) with the spicy, nutty depth of tantan-style toppings. Inspired by both Japanese and Chinese cuisine, this ramen features chewy noodles, ground pork, sesame, chili oil, and fragrant garlic and ginger, creating a complex, comforting bowl with a fiery kick. Perfect for spice lovers and ramen enthusiasts, this dish brings 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 : Tonkotsu broth can be made from scratch (using pork bones simmered for hours) or purchased from Asian markets.
Spice Level : Adjust chili oil and doubanjiang to your desired spice level.
Nutty Flavor : Sesame paste offers authentic flavor; peanut butter is a good substitute.
Noodles : Use fresh ramen noodles if possible. Dried or frozen also work.
Serving Tip : Serve immediately for best texture and heat.
Storage : Store broth and toppings separately from noodles to keep them fresh when reheating.
