Ichiran Tonkotsu

Ichiran.  The name is synonymous with tonkotsu (pork broth) as it started in the Hakata district in Japan, which is known as the birthplace of the tonkotsu broth.  There are only three locations of Ichiran in the United States; all of them located in New York.  However, that didn't stop me from having some Ichiran ramen without the hassle of getting on a plane in this pandemic world.  For $29 for 3 servings, you can get it shipped directly to your house!

This was my first time eating Ichiran ramen and I must say that it definitely lives up to the hype.  The broth had a very nice porky flavor and scent to it and the noodles were straight but chewy.  I added some braised bamboo shoots, corn, sliced pork belly, a soft boiled egg, and green onions to make it a complete meal.  The only thing I wasn't impressed with was the hot pepper that was included.  It is billed as Ichiran's original spicy seasoning.  I added the entire packet and found it to be a mild heat at best.  The price is pretty high for "instant" noodles but the broth is where this bowl of ramen is it.

Click here to order: https://shop.ichiranusa.com/take-home-ramen-kit/

3 servings are included

Noodles, soup base, and spicy pepper packets

The piece de resistance!