Instant Pot Ramen: Tonkotsu Shoyu Recipe With Mayu & Miso Bomb

by Omar Yusuf 63 views

Hey there, ramen lovers! Are you craving a rich, flavorful bowl of Tonkotsu Shoyu Ramen but don't want to spend days simmering a traditional broth? Well, you're in luck! This recipe brings the authentic taste of Tonkotsu Shoyu to your table in a fraction of the time, thanks to the magic of the Instant Pot. And to kick things up a notch, we're adding a fragrant Mayu (black garlic oil) and a fiery Spicy Miso Bomb. Trust me, guys, this is ramen perfection!

Why This Instant Pot Tonkotsu Shoyu Recipe Rocks

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let's talk about why this recipe is a game-changer. First off, the Instant Pot is a total lifesaver for making Tonkotsu broth. Traditionally, this broth simmers for 12-18 hours to extract all that collagen and flavor from the pork bones. But with the Instant Pot, we can achieve a similar depth of flavor in just a few hours. It's like magic, I tell ya! Not only does it save time, but it also keeps the mess contained and your kitchen from overheating. Win-win!

Next up, the flavor. Tonkotsu means "pork bone" in Japanese, and that's exactly what gives this broth its signature creamy, milky texture and rich porky flavor. We're building on that foundation with Shoyu, or soy sauce, which adds a savory umami punch. But we're not stopping there. Oh no. We're taking it to the next level with Mayu, that black garlic oil that's so fragrant and adds a smoky depth. And then, BAM! The Spicy Miso Bomb – a fiery blend of miso, chili, and aromatics that'll wake up your taste buds and add a delightful kick.

And let's be real, who doesn't love a customizable meal? Ramen is all about personalization. You can adjust the toppings, the spice level, and even the richness of the broth to suit your preferences. This recipe is a fantastic base, but feel free to experiment and make it your own. Add extra toppings like marinated eggs, bamboo shoots, or seaweed. Adjust the amount of chili in the Spicy Miso Bomb to control the heat. The possibilities are endless, my friends!

So, if you're ready to ditch the instant noodles and dive into the world of authentic ramen, keep reading. This Instant Pot Tonkotsu Shoyu recipe is going to blow your mind!

Ingredients You'll Need

Okay, let's gather our troops! Here's a breakdown of the ingredients you'll need to make this incredible ramen:

For the Tonkotsu Broth:

  • 2 lbs Pork Bones (Neck Bones, Femur Bones, or a combination): These are the stars of the show! They provide the collagen and flavor that make Tonkotsu broth so special. Ask your butcher for the best options.
  • 1 large Onion, quartered: Adds sweetness and depth to the broth.
  • 1 head of Garlic, halved: Because garlic makes everything better, right?
  • 4-inch piece of Ginger, sliced: Ginger adds warmth and a subtle spice.
  • 8 cups Water: The liquid base for our broth.
  • 1/4 cup Sake (optional): Adds a touch of sweetness and complexity.

For the Shoyu Tare (Soy Sauce Seasoning):

  • 1/2 cup Soy Sauce: The umami backbone of the ramen.
  • 1/4 cup Mirin: A sweet rice wine that adds depth and sweetness.
  • 1/4 cup Sake: More sake! Because why not?
  • 2 tbsp Sugar: Balances the saltiness of the soy sauce.
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced: For extra garlicky goodness.
  • 1-inch piece of Ginger, minced: Adds a touch of warmth.

For the Mayu (Black Garlic Oil):

  • 1/2 cup Neutral Oil (like vegetable or canola): The base for our flavorful oil.
  • 1 head of Garlic, minced: The star of the Mayu!

For the Spicy Miso Bomb:

  • 2 tbsp Red Miso Paste: Adds a deep, savory, and slightly funky flavor.
  • 1 tbsp Gochujang (Korean Chili Paste): For that fiery kick!
  • 1 tbsp Sesame Oil: Adds a nutty aroma and flavor.
  • 1 tbsp Soy Sauce: More umami!
  • 1 tbsp Rice Vinegar: Adds a touch of tang.
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced: Because we can never have too much garlic.
  • 1-inch piece of Ginger, minced: For warmth and spice.

For the Ramen Noodles:

  • 1 lb Fresh or Dried Ramen Noodles: Use your favorite type! Fresh noodles are always a treat, but dried noodles work just fine.

For the Toppings (Get Creative!):

  • Chashu Pork (Braised Pork Belly): A classic ramen topping. You can find recipes online or buy it pre-made.
  • Soft-Boiled Eggs (Marinated in Soy Sauce): A must-have for ramen! The runny yolk adds richness to the broth.
  • Green Onions, thinly sliced: For a fresh, crisp bite.
  • Dried Seaweed (Nori): Adds a salty, umami flavor.
  • Bamboo Shoots (Menma): A classic ramen topping with a slightly crunchy texture.
  • Bean Sprouts: Add a refreshing crunch.
  • Spinach or other leafy greens: For a touch of freshness and nutrients.
  • Sesame Seeds: For garnish and a nutty flavor.

Let's Make Some Ramen! Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, guys, time to get cooking! Here's the step-by-step guide to making this amazing Instant Pot Tonkotsu Shoyu Ramen:

Step 1: Make the Tonkotsu Broth

First, we're going to tackle the broth. This is the foundation of our ramen, so let's do it right! Start by rinsing the pork bones under cold water to remove any impurities. This step is crucial for getting a clean-tasting broth. Nobody wants a cloudy, murky broth, am I right?

Next, grab your Instant Pot and add the rinsed pork bones, quartered onion, halved garlic head, sliced ginger, water, and sake (if using). Make sure the liquid covers the bones adequately. You might need to adjust the amount of water depending on the size of your Instant Pot. Remember, we want a rich, concentrated broth, so don't overdo it with the water.

Now, seal the Instant Pot lid, making sure the pressure valve is set to "Sealing." Cook on high pressure for 2 hours. Yes, you read that right – 2 hours! This is what it takes to extract all that goodness from the bones. After the cooking time is up, let the pressure release naturally for 20 minutes, then do a quick release to vent any remaining pressure. Be careful when releasing the pressure, as hot steam will escape!

Once the pressure is fully released, carefully open the lid. The broth will look milky and opaque – that's exactly what we want! Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth into a large pot or container. This will remove any bone fragments and solids, leaving you with a silky-smooth broth. Discard the solids.

Step 2: Prepare the Shoyu Tare

While the broth is cooking (or after it's done), let's make the Shoyu Tare. This is the soy sauce-based seasoning that gives our ramen its signature flavor. In a small saucepan, combine the soy sauce, mirin, sake, sugar, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is dissolved. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Then, remove from heat and set aside. This tare is liquid gold, guys!

Step 3: Make the Mayu (Black Garlic Oil)

Next up, the Mayu! This black garlic oil is what takes this ramen to the next level. It adds a smoky, garlicky depth that's simply irresistible. In a small saucepan, heat the neutral oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring frequently, until the garlic turns a deep golden brown and starts to crisp up. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will become bitter. Once the garlic is nicely browned, remove the pan from the heat and let the oil cool slightly. Strain the oil through a fine-mesh sieve into a heatproof container, discarding the garlic solids. That black garlic-infused oil is pure magic, trust me!

Step 4: Whip Up the Spicy Miso Bomb

Now for the fun part – the Spicy Miso Bomb! This fiery paste adds a kick to the ramen that's totally addictive. In a small bowl, combine the red miso paste, gochujang, sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Mix everything together until it forms a smooth paste. You can adjust the amount of gochujang to control the heat level. If you like it super spicy, add more! If you prefer a milder flavor, use less. It's all about personal preference, guys!

Step 5: Cook the Ramen Noodles

Alright, we're almost there! Cook the ramen noodles according to the package directions. If you're using fresh noodles, they usually cook in just a few minutes. Dried noodles may take a bit longer. Cook the noodles until they're al dente – slightly firm to the bite. Nobody likes mushy noodles!

Step 6: Assemble Your Ramen Bowls

Now for the best part – assembling our ramen bowls! This is where all our hard work pays off. In each bowl, add about 2 tablespoons of the Shoyu Tare. Then, ladle in the hot Tonkotsu broth, filling the bowl about three-quarters full. Add a serving of cooked ramen noodles to the bowl. Now comes the fun part – toppings! Arrange your favorite toppings artfully on top of the noodles. A few slices of Chashu pork, a soft-boiled egg, some green onions, a sheet of nori, and a dollop of the Spicy Miso Bomb are a great start. Finally, drizzle a spoonful of the Mayu over the top. This adds that signature black garlic flavor and a beautiful sheen to the broth.

Step 7: Dig In and Enjoy!

And there you have it – a steaming bowl of Instant Pot Tonkotsu Shoyu Ramen with Mayu and Spicy Miso Bomb! Grab your chopsticks and dig in. Slurp those noodles, savor that rich broth, and enjoy all the amazing flavors. You deserve it, guys!

Tips and Tricks for Ramen Success

Before you run off to make this ramen, here are a few extra tips and tricks to ensure your success:

  • Get the Right Pork Bones: The quality of your pork bones will directly impact the flavor of your broth. Ask your butcher for neck bones, femur bones, or a combination. These bones are rich in collagen, which is what gives Tonkotsu broth its creamy texture.
  • Don't Skip the Rinsing: Rinsing the pork bones under cold water is essential for removing impurities and getting a clean-tasting broth. Trust me, it makes a difference!
  • Adjust the Spice Level: The Spicy Miso Bomb is customizable! Adjust the amount of gochujang to your liking. You can also add a pinch of chili flakes to the broth for extra heat.
  • Make It Your Own: Ramen is all about personalization. Feel free to experiment with different toppings and flavors. Add some pickled ginger, wood ear mushrooms, or even some corn for sweetness.
  • Broth Freezes Well: If you have leftover broth, you can freeze it for later use. It's a great way to have a quick and easy ramen meal on hand.

Variations and Customizations

Okay, so you've mastered the basic recipe. Now it's time to get creative! Here are a few variations and customizations you can try:

  • Add Chicken or Fish Broth: For a lighter broth, try adding some chicken or fish broth to the Tonkotsu broth. This will create a more nuanced flavor profile.
  • Make It Vegetarian: Skip the pork bones and use a vegetarian broth made from mushrooms, kelp, and vegetables. You can also add some tofu for protein.
  • Experiment with Different Miso: There are many different types of miso, each with its own unique flavor. Try using white miso for a sweeter, milder flavor, or black miso for a deeper, more intense flavor.
  • Add Aromatics: Get creative with your aromatics! Try adding some dried shiitake mushrooms, kombu (dried kelp), or even some roasted garlic to the broth for extra flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Let's tackle some common questions about making Tonkotsu Shoyu Ramen:

Q: Can I make this recipe without an Instant Pot? A: Yes, you can! You'll need to simmer the broth on the stovetop for 12-18 hours to achieve a similar depth of flavor. It's a labor of love, but it's worth it!

Q: Can I use store-bought broth? A: While store-bought broth can work in a pinch, it won't have the same richness and depth of flavor as homemade broth. If you're going to use store-bought broth, try to find a high-quality pork broth and enhance it with some extra aromatics.

Q: Can I make the broth ahead of time? A: Absolutely! In fact, the broth often tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had a chance to meld together. You can store the broth in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage.

Q: What kind of noodles should I use? A: Fresh or dried ramen noodles are the best choice for this recipe. Look for noodles that are specifically labeled as "ramen noodles." You can find them at most Asian grocery stores or online.

Q: What if I don't like spicy food? A: No problem! Simply reduce or omit the gochujang in the Spicy Miso Bomb. You can also add a touch of sweetness to balance the flavors.

Conclusion: Your Ramen Adventure Awaits!

So there you have it, guys! Your ultimate guide to making Instant Pot Tonkotsu Shoyu Ramen with Mayu and a Spicy Miso Bomb. This recipe might seem a bit intimidating at first, but trust me, it's totally doable. And the results are absolutely worth the effort. You'll be rewarded with a rich, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying bowl of ramen that rivals anything you'd find in a restaurant. So grab your Instant Pot, gather your ingredients, and get ready to embark on a ramen adventure! You won't regret it. Happy slurping!