Chettinad Tantanmen Ramen

Ingredients

In this Chettinad adaptation of Tantanmen Ramen, we incorporate the bold and aromatic spices of Chettinad cuisine, such as black peppercorns, fennel seeds, and star anise, to infuse the broth with a unique flavor profile. Additionally, we use coconut milk to add a touch of sweetness and creaminess to the broth, enhancing the overall richness of the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Tantanmen Ramen, so you can check it out.

• 2 tablespoons (30ml) vegetable oil 2 tablespoons (30ml) vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon black peppercorns 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
• 1 teaspoon fennel seeds 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
• 2 star anise 2 star anise
• 1 cinnamon stick 1 cinnamon stick
• 2 tablespoons (30g) Chettinad masala powder 2 tablespoons (30g) Chettinad masala powder
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) soy sauce 1 tablespoon (15ml) soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) chili sauce 1 tablespoon (15ml) chili sauce
• 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk
• 4 cups (960ml) chicken or vegetable broth 4 cups (960ml) chicken or vegetable broth
• 200g ramen noodles 200g ramen noodles
• 250g chicken breast or mixed vegetables 250g chicken breast or mixed vegetables
• Salt to taste Salt to taste
• Garnishes: fried onions, fresh cilantro, lime wedges Garnishes: fried onions, fresh cilantro, lime wedges

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 8g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 55g, 5g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté until the onion turns translucent.
2. 2.
   Add black peppercorns, fennel seeds, star anise, and cinnamon stick to the pot. Stir and cook for a minute until the spices release their aroma.
3. 3.
   Sprinkle Chettinad masala powder over the spices and mix well. Cook for another minute.
4. 4.
   Pour in soy sauce, chili sauce, coconut milk, and chicken or vegetable broth. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
5. 5.
   Bring the broth to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. 6.
   While the broth simmers, cook the ramen noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
7. 7.
   If using chicken, grill or pan-fry the chicken breast until cooked through. Slice it into thin strips. If using vegetables, sauté them until tender.
8. 8.
   Season the broth with salt according to your taste preferences.
9. 9.
   To serve, divide the cooked ramen noodles among bowls. Ladle the hot broth over the noodles and top with grilled chicken or sautéed vegetables.
10. 10.
    Garnish with fried onions, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.
11. 11.
    Serve the Chettinad Tantanmen Ramen hot and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Chettinad masala powder — Adjust the quantity according to your spice preference. Increase or decrease the amount to make the broth more or less spicy.
• Ramen noodles — Cook the noodles until they are al dente for the best texture. Overcooking can result in mushy noodles.
• Fried onions — You can make your own fried onions by thinly slicing onions and frying them in oil until golden brown and crispy. Alternatively, store-bought fried onions can be used.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of heat, add a few chopped green chilies or a dash of chili powder to the broth.
• Customize the toppings by adding sliced boiled eggs, blanched bean sprouts, or sautéed mushrooms.
• If you prefer a thicker broth, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and add it to the simmering broth.
• Adjust the spiciness by adding more or less Chettinad masala powder and chili sauce according to your taste.
• To make it more indulgent, drizzle a teaspoon of sesame oil over the ramen before serving.

Serving advice

Serve the Chettinad Tantanmen Ramen piping hot in individual bowls. Provide chopsticks and spoons for an authentic ramen experience. Encourage your guests to squeeze fresh lime juice over their bowls for an extra burst of tanginess.

Presentation advice

To make the dish visually appealing, arrange the toppings neatly on top of the ramen noodles. Sprinkle some fried onions and fresh cilantro on the surface, and place a lime wedge on the side of each bowl. The vibrant colors of the garnishes will enhance the overall presentation.