Ramen Database > Types of Ramen

Reimen (Cold Korean Ramen)

Reimen is a refreshing Cold Korean Ramen dish perfect for summer. It has a spicy, tangy broth, chewy cold noodles, and uses various toppings.

Reimen, also known as Cold Korean Ramen, is a refreshing and flavorful dish perfect for hot summer days. This chilled noodle dish combines the savory and tangy elements of Korean cuisine with the beloved Japanese ramen format.

Reimen features a broth that is both spicy and slightly sweet, providing a complex flavor profile that invigorates the palate. The dish is characterized by its chewy, cold noodles and a variety of fresh and pickled toppings, making it a satisfying and cooling meal. Reimen is particularly popular for its ability to balance bold flavors while offering a refreshing dining experience.

The broth for Reimen is a unique blend of spicy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors. It typically includes ingredients like gochujang (Korean red chili paste), soy sauce, vinegar, and a touch of sugar. This combination creates a vibrant, red-colored broth that is both invigorating and satisfying.

The broth is usually chilled before serving, enhancing its refreshing qualities and making it an ideal choice for hot weather. The balance of heat and acidity in the broth awakens the taste buds, providing a flavorful base for the cold noodles and toppings.

Reimen uses chewy, cold noodles that are perfect for absorbing the flavorful broth. These noodles are typically made from wheat or buckwheat, giving them a firm and satisfying texture.

After cooking, the noodles are rinsed thoroughly in cold water to cool them down and remove any excess starch. This process ensures that the noodles remain separate and maintain their chewy texture, providing a pleasant contrast to the crisp toppings and tangy broth.

The toppings for Reimen are diverse and colorful, adding both flavor and texture to the dish. Common toppings include sliced cucumbers, kimchi, boiled eggs, and thinly sliced beef or pork.

Fruits like pear or watermelon are also sometimes added for a touch of sweetness and extra refreshment. These toppings not only enhance the visual appeal of the dish but also contribute to its complex flavor profile. The combination of fresh vegetables, savory meat, and sweet fruit creates a harmonious and satisfying meal.

A brief history of Reimen Ramen

Reimen has its roots in the Korean culinary tradition but has been adapted and popularized in Japan over time. The dish is particularly popular in the northern regions of Japan, where it was introduced by Korean immigrants.

The combination of cold noodles and spicy broth made it an instant hit, especially during the summer months. Over the years, Reimen has evolved, incorporating local Japanese ingredients and flavors while retaining its Korean essence. Today, it is enjoyed as a refreshing and flavorful dish that highlights the best of both Korean and Japanese culinary traditions.

Reimen Ramen recipe

Ingredients For the Broth:

4 cups beef or chicken broth, chilled
2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean red chili paste)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon sesame oil

Ingredients For The Toppings and Noodles:

4 servings of wheat or buckwheat noodles
1 cucumber, julienned
1/2 cup kimchi, chopped
4 boiled eggs, halved
8 thin slices of cooked beef or pork
1 Asian pear, thinly sliced
2 green onions, finely chopped
Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions:

Prepare the Broth:

In a large bowl, mix the chilled beef or chicken broth with gochujang, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and sesame oil. Stir until the gochujang and sugar are fully dissolved. Keep the broth chilled in the refrigerator.

Prepare the Noodles:

Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
Cook the noodles according to the package instructions until they are just tender.
Drain and rinse the noodles under cold running water to cool them completely. Drain well.

Prepare the Toppings:

Julienne the cucumber, chop the kimchi, and slice the pear thinly.
Cook and slice the beef or pork thinly, and halve the boiled eggs.

Assemble the Ramen:

Divide the chilled noodles into four bowls.
Pour the cold broth over the noodles in each bowl.

Add Toppings and Serve:

Arrange the cucumber, kimchi, boiled eggs, beef or pork slices, and pear slices on top of the noodles.
Garnish with finely chopped green onions and sesame seeds.

Serve the ramen and enjoy!

Explore a variety of ramen styles that highlight the diverse and rich flavors of this beloved dish. From the savory depth of Shoyu Ramen to the creamy richness of Tonkotsu Ramen, each type offers a unique taste experience.