Authentic Japanese-Style Tan Tan Ramen
Experience the bold, nutty, and spicy comfort of Tan Tan Ramen. Featuring a rich, creamy sesame-based broth and savory minced meat, this is a bowl of pure warmth.
Tan Tan Ramen is a Japanese take on the classic Sichuan dan dan noodles, transformed into a beloved noodle soup. It is celebrated for its deeply flavorful, nutty sesame broth paired with a vibrant, spicy chili oil. This recipe balances richness with a satisfying kick, making it a perfect bowl for those seeking a comforting yet complex meal at home.
Ingredients
- 500 ml tonkotsu broth
- 2 tbsp sesame paste
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 150 g ramen noodles
- 50 g minced meat
- 1 tbsp chili oil
- 1 stalk green onions
- optional sesame seeds
Instructions
- 1Prepare the stove

Turn on the stove burner to provide steady heat, then place your small metal pot securely on the grate to begin preparing the soup base.
Tip: Ensure the pot is centered on the burner for even heating throughout the cooking process. - 2Create the soup base

Pour the freshly brewed tonkotsu broth into the hot pot, then add a spoonful of homemade sesame paste to give the broth its signature rich and nutty profile.
Tip: Whisk the sesame paste thoroughly into the broth to ensure a smooth, uniform consistency. - 3Season the broth

Add two spoonfuls of soy sauce to the pot. Use a whisk to combine the ingredients, creating a balanced and savory flavor profile for the ramen soup.
Tip: Taste your broth after mixing to adjust the seasoning if you prefer a saltier or milder profile. - 4Cook the noodles

Place the fresh noodles into a separate pot of boiling water. Use wooden chopsticks to gently stir the noodles, which helps separate them and ensures an ideal chewy texture.
Tip: Do not overcook; the noodles should remain firm as they will continue to soften slightly in the hot broth. - 5Assemble the ramen

Transfer the cooked noodles into a serving bowl, then ladle the prepared hot soup broth over them until the noodles are well submerged.
Tip: Warm your bowl beforehand with a little hot water to keep the ramen hot for longer. - 6Add the toppings

Carefully place a spoonful of cooked minced meat onto the center of the noodles. Finish by drizzling with chili oil and garnishing with shredded green onions.
Tip: Adding the meat last ensures it stays beautifully positioned atop the noodles and broth. - 7Drizzle the chili oil

Once the minced meat is placed in the center of the bowl, carefully drizzle two circles of red chili oil over the meat and the surface of the rich sesame soup. This adds a beautiful contrast in color and a signature spicy kick to the Tan Tan Ramen.
Tip: Adjust the amount of chili oil based on your preferred spice level. A steady hand while drizzling creates an appetizing presentation. - 8Garnish with green onions

Finish assembling the bowl by placing a small pile of freshly shredded green onions directly on top of the minced meat. This final garnish adds a vibrant pop of color and a fresh, crisp flavor that cuts through the richness of the sesame broth.
Tip: Slice the green onions as thinly as possible for an elegant presentation and a delicate flavor that wont overpower the dish.