National Ramen Day

A smiling person with chopsticks, enjoying a bowl of ramen in a cozy, traditional Japanese restaurant ambiance.. — National ramen day illustration

Hey there, fellow foodies! Get ready to slurp up some deliciousness because it's National Ramen Day! This is the ultimate excuse to indulge in a bowl of steaming hot noodles loaded with savory broth and a delightful medley of toppings. So, put on your stretchy pants and get ready to dive into the fascinating history of this beloved comfort food.

When is Ramen Day?

It's national ramen day on the 4th April.

The Origins of Ramen

Believe it or not, ramen doesn't have ancient roots steeped in tradition. It actually came to be during the late 19th century in Japan. Originally, it was a simple food made with wheat noodles served in soy sauce or miso-based broth. It was a cheap and easy way to fill up hungry bellies without breaking the bank.

As time went on, ramen evolved and transformed into the glorious dish we know today. The addition of ingredients like sliced pork, soft-boiled eggs, green onions, seaweed, and even corn brought a whole new level of culinary delight to the already tasty noodle soup.

Ramen Takes Over the Internet

The internet has played a significant role in popularizing ramen worldwide. Food bloggers, cooking tutorials, and mouthwatering food photos flooded the web, capturing the hearts and stomachs of people everywhere.

Social media platforms like Instagram and YouTube have become havens for ramen enthusiasts to showcase their culinary masterpieces. From quirky ramen challenges to step-by-step recipe videos, the internet has become a treasure trove of ramen-related goodness.

Celebrating National Ramen Day

On National Ramen Day, it's time to treat yourself to some soul-warming noodles. Whether you visit your favorite ramen joint or whip up a homemade batch, make sure to savor every slurp and appreciate the artistry of this humble yet beloved dish.

Don't forget to share your slurp-worthy moments on social media using the hashtag #NationalRamenDay. It's time to spread some savory joy around the digital world!

History behind the term 'Ramen'

1900

Birth of Chinese-style wheat noodles

In the year 1900, Chinese-style wheat noodles were introduced to Japan. These noodles, which were made from wheat flour and salt, were originally called 'shina soba' or 'Chinese soba' in Japan. They were mainly consumed by Chinese immigrants living in Yokohama and other port cities.

1910

Ramen adapts and evolves

By the year 1910, 'shina soba' had started to incorporate Japanese flavors and ingredients, adapting to suit the local taste. The use of native Japanese ingredients like soy sauce, miso, and pork became common, and the dish began to take on its own distinct characteristics separate from Chinese noodles.

1958

The birth of instant ramen

In 1958, Momofuku Ando, the founder of Nissin Foods, revolutionized the culinary world by inventing instant ramen noodles. Ando created a method to flash-fry the noodles, dehydrate them, and package them with a flavoring powder, allowing for quick and convenient preparation. This groundbreaking invention made ramen accessible to everyone and played a significant role in popularizing the dish globally.

1971

Cup Noodles hit the market

In 1971, Nissin Foods introduced Cup Noodles, which added another layer of convenience to ramen consumption. With the introduction of the styrofoam cup packaging, individuals could now enjoy ramen noodles simply by adding hot water. Cup Noodles became immensely popular and further contributed to the globalization of ramen.

1980s-present

Ramen becomes a cultural phenomenon

From the 1980s onwards, ramen has soared in popularity both in Japan and around the world. Its versatility and adaptability have led to the emergence of countless regional variations and innovative flavor combinations. Ramen shops have become culinary destinations, attracting food enthusiasts from all walks of life. Ramen has even inspired movies, documentaries, and devoted fan clubs, solidifying its status as a cultural phenomenon.