Introduction To Ramen

FIrst, let me say that I absolutely love good Ramen. Not that trash that we all ate as college students (though considering the negligable effort involved in preparation, it isn't so bad), I mean hand made noodles, ginuine broth, freash veggies, real meat, Ramen. Don't know what I'm talking about? Well, then you haven't really given Ramen a try. Hopefully this page will reveal to you a world of culinary delights to appease any palet, or atleast get you to try some Ramen at a resturant.

Not too long ago, I was a Ramen depraved individual myself. Growing up from childhood having only experienced the powered broth packets, and heavily salted noodles of the little 5 minute "instant ramen." Occasionally, sliced veggestables or think lunch meat might make its way into the mix, but these addtionals only marginally improved the bland nature of the meal. I had no idea of the unique flavors, rich tastes, and intoxicating aromas that existed outside my little ignorant world. Thankfully, God stepped in and saved me from a life of ignorance and sent me to Japan. Please note that it is not really necessary to travel to Japan for Ramen, but it certainly can't hurt.

I only stayed in Japan about a week, accompanying my father on a business trip for part of the time. I was all set for sushi when I arrived, and immediately realized I would need to increase my budget if I were to survive on this alone. The day after making this saddening discovery, I was surveying the local eateries, looking for a place to rest and entertain a reasonable lunch. I eventually stumbled upon a small shop where locals were busily devowering massive bowls of noodles. The smell waifted up through the air and...Yeah, I can't write like that anymore. Let's cut to the chase.

1. Went to Tokyo, Japan. I already told you this.
2. Got hungry. This is a reasonable thing to expect.
3. Found a noodle shop. They're pretty much everywhere.
4. Ordered a bowl of "House" Ramen. Another guy had it.
5. Ate the Ramen. I realized Ramen can be amazingly tasty.
6. Paid bill. I didn't really have a choice on this one.

I remember reading somewhere that in Tokyo alone, there are over 1,000 different unique flavors/ combinations of Ramen. I may not have been successful in sampling anywhere close to that number, but did my best. I ate a different style of Ramen for lunch each day I was in Japan, and for dinner when I could. They were all delicious (even my least favorite had redeeming qualities).