Miso TanTan Ramen

Tantanmen is Japan’s take on Sichuan dan dan noodles, but it swaps out the dry, spicy preparation for a rich, creamy, and satisfying soup. Adding miso takes the flavor profile up a notch, making it both savory and comforting while still delivering that gentle heat. Here’s a recipe to recreate Miso Tantanmen Ramen at home with balanced flavors and a kick of spice.

Ingredients for Miso Tantan ramen (Serves 2)

For the Broth:

• 2 tablespoons sesame paste (or tahini)
• 2 tablespoons white miso paste
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon chili oil (adjust to taste)
• 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
• 1/2 cup unsweetened soy milk (or any plant-based milk)

For the Toppings:

• 1/2 pound ground pork (or ground chicken/tofu for a vegetarian twist)
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sake (optional)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 servings Kaedama ramen noodles

Garnishes:

• Chopped green onions
• Toasted sesame seeds
• Chili oil (for extra spice)
• Bok choy or spinach (blanched)
• Soft-boiled egg (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Broth

1. In a pot, mix the sesame paste, white miso paste, soy sauce, and sugar. Stir until smooth.
2. Add the chicken broth and soy milk, whisking gently to combine. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat, ensuring it doesn’t boil (to preserve the creaminess).
3. Add chili oil to taste, adjusting the spice level to your liking. Reduce to low heat and keep warm.

2. Cook the Toppings

1. In a separate pan, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add ginger and garlic, stirring until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
2. Add the ground pork, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Stir in soy sauce and sake, cooking until the pork is browned and fully cooked. Set aside.

3. Cook the Noodles

1. Boil ramen noodles according to package instructions. Fresh noodles usually cook in 2-3 minutes, while dried noodles may take longer. Drain and set aside.

4. Assemble the Ramen

1. Divide the cooked ramen noodles into two bowls.
2. Pour the hot miso broth over the noodles.
3. Top with the seasoned ground pork, blanched bok choy, green onions, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
4. Drizzle with chili oil for an extra kick and finish with a soft-boiled egg if desired.

Tips for Miso Tantan ramen

• For a vegetarian version, swap the ground pork for crumbled tofu or plant-based protein.
• Adjust the spice level with chili oil or Sichuan peppercorn oil for a bolder kick.
• Use high-quality noodles like Hakubaku ramen noodles to get that authentic chewy texture.

Miso Tantanmen Ramen is a perfect balance of creamy, savory, and spicy flavors—ideal for a cozy dinner. Whether you’re a fan of traditional ramen or looking to try something new, this dish hits the spot!