Tempura is a popular Japanese dish consisting of lightly battered and deep-fried seafood, vegetables, or other ingredients. Known for its crispy texture and delicate flavor, tempura adds a delightful crunch and a contrasting element to the smooth and savory experience of ramen.
The lightness of the tempura batter allows the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine through, making it a versatile topping that complements a variety of ramen styles. Typically served hot, tempura is appreciated for its ability to retain crispiness even when submerged in broth, enhancing both the texture and visual appeal of the ramen bowl.
Usage and Selection
When using tempura as a ramen topping, the key is to select ingredients that maintain their texture and flavor when fried. Popular tempura choices include shrimp, sweet potato, eggplant, and seasonal vegetables.
To prepare, coat the ingredients in a light batter made from cold water, flour, and sometimes egg, then fry until golden and crispy. For the best results, use fresh, high-quality ingredients and ensure the oil temperature is maintained at around 350°F (175°C) for even cooking.
Pre-made tempura can also be used, but homemade offers superior freshness and flavor. When adding tempura to ramen, place it on top of the noodles just before serving to preserve its crispiness, allowing it to soak slightly in the broth without becoming soggy.
Types of Ramen Using Tempura
Tempura is a versatile topping that enhances several types of ramen, adding a delightful crunch and an additional layer of flavor. Below are some popular ramen styles that incorporate tempura.
Seafood Ramen
Seafood ramen features a rich broth infused with shrimp, fish, and clams, paired with chewy noodles and fresh seafood toppings.
Kake Ramen
Kake ramen is typically based ona clear, dashi-based broth seasoned with soy sauce (shoyu), mirin, and sometimes sake.
Tempura Ramen
Tempura ramen combines the crispy goodness of tempura with the savory flavors of ramen. It can feature tempura shrimp or vegetables.
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.
