Ramen Database > Ramen Ingredients > Ramen Seasonings

Sesame Oil

Sesame oil is used to enhance the flavor and aroma of the dish. It can be added to the broth to infuse the soup with a rich, nutty flavor.

Sesame oil is a highly aromatic and flavorful seasoning used extensively in Japanese cuisine, including ramen. Extracted from toasted sesame seeds, this oil imparts a rich, nutty aroma and a subtle, earthy taste that enhances the overall flavor profile of many dishes.

Its distinctive taste and fragrant aroma make sesame oil a versatile ingredient that can be used both as a cooking oil and as a finishing touch. In ramen, sesame oil adds depth and complexity, providing a delicious contrast to the savory broths and complementing the fresh toppings, making it a staple in many ramen recipes.

In ramen, sesame oil is used to enhance the flavor and aroma of the dish. It can be added to the broth during cooking to infuse the soup with a rich, nutty flavor or drizzled over the finished bowl as a fragrant finishing touch.

Sesame oil is also used in various ramen toppings and sauces, such as in the dressing for Hiyashi Chuka (cold ramen salad) or in spicy ramen varieties to add a layer of depth.

When selecting sesame oil, opt for high-quality, cold-pressed varieties that retain the natural flavor and aroma of the sesame seeds. Toasted sesame oil, in particular, is highly recommended for its intense, robust flavor.

Types of Ramen Using Sesame Oil

Sesame oil is a versatile seasoning used in various types of ramen to enhance and balance flavors. Here are some ramen varieties that commonly incorporate sesame oil:

Miso Ramen

Miso Ramen originates from Hokkaido and features a robust miso-based broth, as well as ground pork, corn, and a blend of savory toppings.

Types of Ramen: Tantanmen Ramen. Image courtesy of Wally Gobetz via Flickr Commons.

Tantanmen (Tan Tan) Ramen

Tantanmen or Tan-Tan ramen is a rich and spicy Japanese adaptation of Sichuan Dan Dan noodles. It uses a creamy broth and chewy noodles.

Types of Ramen: Kimchi Ramen. Image courtesy of Viridiana Rivera via Pexels.

Spicy Shoyu Ramen

Spicy shoyu ramen combines the deep umami of soy sauce-based broth with a spicy kick. It’s usually served with chewy noodles.

Hiyashi Tanmen Ramen

Hiyashi Tanmen is a refreshing Japanese cold ramen with vegetables. Learn about its light, tangy broth, chewy noodles, and vibrant toppings.

More Ramen Seasoning

Ramen seasonings enhance the broth’s depth and complexity, bringing out the umami and creating a harmonious balance of flavors. These essential additions can transform a simple broth into a rich and flavorful base for the noodles and toppings. Here are some key seasonings used in ramen: