Express Umami Ramen Broth

• •6 cups Water
• •2 Chicken or Vegetable Bouillon Cubes
• •3 cloves, minced Garlic
• •1 inch, grated Fresh Ginger
• •1 cup Soy Sauce
• •2 tablespoons Mirin
• •3 tablespoons White or Awase Miso Paste
• •1 tablespoon Toasted Sesame Oil
• •2 stalks, thinly sliced (for garnish) Optional: Green Onions
• •1 teaspoon (for garnish) Optional: Chili Oil

Instructions

1. 1

   In a medium saucepan, add the toasted sesame oil and heat over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.

2. 2

   Pour in the water and add the bouillon cubes. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to dissolve the bouillon.

3. 3

   Once simmering, stir in the soy sauce and mirin. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

4. 4

   In a small bowl, scoop out a ladleful of the hot broth and whisk in the miso paste until it is fully dissolved and smooth. This tempering step prevents the miso from clumping in the main pot and helps preserve its delicate flavor.

5. 5

   Pour the dissolved miso paste back into the saucepan with the rest of the broth. Stir well to combine. Remove the broth from the heat immediately after adding the miso, as boiling miso can diminish its flavor and beneficial properties.

6. 6

   Taste the broth and adjust seasonings if necessary. You may add a pinch more soy sauce for saltiness or a dash more mirin for sweetness, according to your preference.

7. 7

   Serve the hot broth immediately. It's perfect as a base for ramen noodles with your favorite toppings (e.g., soft-boiled egg, sliced pork, nori, corn) or simply enjoyed on its own. Garnish with thinly sliced green onions and a drizzle of chili oil if desired.

Chef's Tips

• 💡To ensure a smooth miso addition, always dissolve miso paste in a small amount of hot liquid before adding it to the main pot.
• 💡Avoid boiling the broth after adding miso, as high heat can degrade the miso's delicate flavor and probiotic benefits.
• 💡This broth is highly customizable. Feel free to add a pinch of white pepper for a subtle kick, or a splash of rice vinegar for brightness.
• 💡For a richer broth, you can use chicken or vegetable stock instead of water and bouillon, though bouillon speeds up the process significantly.
• 💡While designed for speed, letting the broth sit for an extra 5-10 minutes off the heat can deepen the flavors even further.