Quail eggs are a unique and visually striking addition to ramen, used less frequently than chicken eggs but offering a touch of elegance, novelty, and texture. Because of their small size and delicate appearance, quail eggs are often featured in upscale, fusion, or regionally creative ramen bowls.
Quail eggs have a flavor similar to chicken eggs, though slightly richer and creamier due to a higher yolk-to-white ratio. When hard-boiled or soft-boiled, they offer a compact, tender bite that contrasts nicely with the texture of noodles and broth. Their small size makes them easy to eat in a single bite, adding richness without overwhelming the dish.
Usage and Selection
In ramen, quail eggs are typically boiled and peeled, then served whole as a topping—often three or four per bowl. They may be marinated like ajitama in soy sauce, mirin, and sake to deepen their flavor, or left plain to highlight their natural creaminess. Some chefs even lightly sear or smoke them for added complexity.
They pair especially well with seafood-based or clear broths, where their delicate nature can be appreciated, though they can also be used in rich tonkotsu or spicy miso for contrast and visual appeal.
Fresh quail eggs are ideal, but canned or vacuum-packed versions are sometimes used in high-volume settings. When preparing them at home, care is needed while boiling and peeling, as their shells are thin and fragile. A gentle simmer (not a rolling boil) helps preserve their shape and texture.
Types of Ramen Using Quail Eggs
Quail eggs bring a refined, bite-sized indulgence to ramen—a small but memorable detail that elevates both presentation and taste. Here are some traditional ramens that use them:
Shio Ramen
Shio Ramen is based on chicken broth. Its main seasoning is salt, and its toppings are usually a refreshing mix of seafood and veggies.
Tonkotsu Ramen
Tonkotsu ramen is creamy and intensely savory. It’s based on a rich pork bone broth and uses toppings like chashu and mushrooms.
Spicy Miso Ramen
Spicy miso ramen features a rich, umami-filled broth with a fiery kick, springy noodles, and an array of delicious toppings.
Seafood Tonkotsu Ramen
Seafood Tonkotsu Ramen is a variation of traditional tonkotsu ramen that blends the richness of pork bone broth with the depth of the sea.
