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I Asked Chefs in Korea To Upgrade My Instant Ramen

Recipe by Danny Kim

A gourmet upgrade of instant lamian using a creamy matcha‑infused broth, thinly sliced chashu pork, and aromatic nori oil. Perfect for a quick yet restaurant‑quality Korean‑Japanese fusion ramen at home.

MediumKorean-Japanese FusionServes 2

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Source Video
8m
Prep
19m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
37m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$96.15
Total cost
$48.08
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Keeping the broth on low heat to maintain a white color.
  • Straining the broth to achieve a clear, silky texture.
  • Toasting nori just enough to release aroma without burning.
  • Cooking noodles al dente to prevent mushiness when combined with broth.

Safety Warnings

  • Handle hot oil and boiling water with care to avoid burns.
  • Use a pot holder when removing the hot saucepan from the stove.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Matcha Ramen in Korean-Japanese fusion cuisine?

A

Matcha Ramen blends Japanese matcha tea, traditionally used in sweets and drinks, with Korean ramen culture. The combination reflects modern Korean chefs experimenting with Japanese ingredients to create vibrant, health‑focused street food.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of ramen that use matcha in Korean cuisine?

A

While classic Korean ramyeon does not use matcha, some Seoul‑area cafés have introduced matcha‑infused broths as a seasonal twist, often paired with pork chashu and seaweed to balance bitterness with umami.

cultural
Q

How is Matcha Ramen traditionally served in Korean street food stalls?

A

It is usually served in a shallow bowl, topped with thinly sliced chashu, a drizzle of nori‑infused oil, and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, allowing diners to mix the broth and garnish before eating.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is Matcha Ramen traditionally associated with in Korean culture?

A

Matcha Ramen is a modern comfort food often enjoyed during late‑night gatherings, study sessions, or as a special treat at pop‑up food festivals celebrating fusion cuisine.

cultural
Q

What makes Matcha Ramen special or unique in Korean‑Japanese fusion cuisine?

A

The bright green matcha broth provides a subtle earthy bitterness that contrasts with the rich pork fat, while the nori oil adds a sea‑savory note, creating a balanced flavor profile rarely found in traditional ramen.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Matcha Ramen at home?

A

Common errors include overheating the broth (which darkens the color), over‑cooking the noodles, and burning the nori when making the oil. Follow low‑heat simmering and watch the toast time closely.

technical
Q

Why does this Matcha Ramen recipe use low heat for the broth instead of high heat?

A

Low heat prevents the broth from turning cloudy and keeps the delicate matcha flavor bright. High heat can cause the fats to emulsify, resulting in a dull, greasy broth.

technical
Q

Can I make the Matcha Ramen broth ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, the broth can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance. Cool it quickly, refrigerate in an airtight container, and reheat gently on low heat before adding noodles.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when making Matcha Ramen?

A

The broth should be a clear, vibrant green with a silky mouthfeel. Noodles should be firm yet tender (al dente), and the sliced chashu should be paper‑thin, glossy from the broth.

technical
Q

How do I know when the Matcha Ramen is done cooking?

A

The broth will be hot (around 95‑98 °C) and slightly frothy. Noodles will float and have a slight resistance when bitten. The chashu will be warmed through but still tender.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Danny Kim specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Danny Kim focuses on creative Korean street‑food upgrades, showcasing how to transform everyday instant meals into gourmet‑level dishes with simple techniques and bold flavors.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Danny Kim's approach to Korean fusion cooking differ from other Korean cooking channels?

A

Danny Kim emphasizes rapid, kitchen‑hack style transformations of instant products, often incorporating international ingredients like matcha or cheese, whereas many Korean channels stick to traditional recipes and slower cooking methods.

channel

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