Japan is famous for its diverse ramen culture, and one of the most beloved styles is Yokohama Iekei Ramen. If you love rich, savory flavors and a hearty meal, this ramen is a must-try! Let’s dive into what makes Iekei Ramen special and how you can enjoy it like a local.
What is Iekei Ramen?
Iekei Ramen (家系ラーメン) originated in Yokohama in the 1970s. It combines elements of tonkotsu (pork bone) broth from Kyushu and shoyu (soy sauce) flavor from Tokyo, creating a unique and bold taste. The broth is thick, creamy, and packed with umami, making it incredibly satisfying.
The noodles are thick and slightly chewy, designed to absorb the rich broth. Toppings typically include:
- Chashu (braised pork)
- Spinach
- Nori (seaweed)
- Green onions
- A soft-boiled egg (optional)
How to Order Like a Local
When you enter an Iekei Ramen shop, you’ll often be asked for your preference. Here’s how to customize your bowl:
- Noodle firmness: Soft (やわめ), Medium (ふつう), or Firm (かため)
- Broth richness: Light (うすめ), Normal (ふつう), or Rich (こいめ)
- Oil level: Less (すくなめ), Normal (ふつう), or More (おおめ)
If you’re unsure, go with normal (ふつう) for a balanced experience.
Best Way to Enjoy Iekei Ramen
To eat Iekei Ramen like a local, follow these steps:
- Taste the broth first to appreciate its richness.
- Dip the nori into the broth before eating for extra flavor.
- Mix in toppings like garlic, black pepper, or chili oil for a personal touch.
- Order extra rice – Many locals order rice and eat it with seaweed soaked in soup, or pour the soup over it. Some restaurants have doubanjiang and garlic, so pouring the soup over the rice and adding doubanjiang and garlic makes for a punchy dish.
Where to Try Iekei Ramen
Some of the most famous Iekei Ramen shops include:
- Yoshimura-ya (吉村家) – The original Iekei Ramen shop in Yokohama.
- Ie-kei chain stores like Machida syouten.The main store is in Machida, but the name of the place is followed by “Syouten.” You can eat delicious Iekei ramen with consistent quality.https://shop.machidashoten.com/japan/map/
- Musashi-ya (武蔵家) – A popular Iekei Ramen chain with branches in Tokyo and beyond.They have their own original flavor that is different from other Iekei ramen, and the prices are often reasonable.
- Konshinya (魂心家) – A well-known Iekei Ramen chain famous for its rich broth and free rice service.The soup is very creamy and goes best with rice among all the Iekei ramen. Please try eating the soup with rice.
Final Thoughts
Iekei Ramen is a must-try for any ramen lover visiting Japan. Its bold flavors, thick noodles, and customizable options make it a delicious and satisfying meal. Next time you’re in Yokohama or Tokyo, be sure to stop by a local Iekei Ramen shop and experience it for yourself!
Enjoy your ramen adventure!
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