Zambian-Inspired Tokushima Ramen

Ingredients

In this Zambian-inspired adaptation of Tokushima Ramen, we incorporate traditional Zambian spices and herbs to infuse the broth with a distinct flavor profile. Additionally, we use locally sourced ingredients commonly found in Zambian cuisine to create a fusion of flavors that pay homage to both Japanese and Zambian culinary traditions. We alse have the original recipe for Tokushima ramen, so you can check it out.

• 4 cups (946ml) chicken or vegetable broth 4 cups (946ml) chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon turmeric 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste) 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 2 cups (470ml) water 2 cups (470ml) water
• 200g ramen noodles 200g ramen noodles
• 200g chicken breast, cooked and sliced 200g chicken breast, cooked and sliced
• 2 boiled eggs, halved 2 boiled eggs, halved
• 1 cup bean sprouts 1 cup bean sprouts
• 4 green onions, sliced 4 green onions, sliced
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 45g, 5g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
2. 2.
   Add the ground coriander, ground cumin, paprika, turmeric, and chili powder to the pot. Stir well to coat the onions and spices evenly.
3. 3.
   Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and tomato paste. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
4. 4.
   Add the water to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. 5.
   While the broth is simmering, cook the ramen noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. 6.
   Once the broth has simmered, season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. 7.
   To serve, divide the cooked ramen noodles among bowls. Ladle the hot broth over the noodles. Top with sliced chicken breast, boiled eggs, bean sprouts, green onions, and fresh cilantro.
8. 8.
   Serve the Zambian-Inspired Tokushima Ramen hot and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ramen noodles — Cook the noodles according to the package instructions, but make sure to slightly undercook them as they will continue to cook in the hot broth.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of heat, add a few drops of Zambian hot sauce to the broth.
• Customize your toppings by adding sliced bell peppers, shredded cabbage, or sautéed mushrooms.
• If you prefer a thicker broth, mix in a tablespoon of cornstarch dissolved in water during the simmering process.
• Experiment with different protein options such as shrimp, beef, or tofu.
• To enhance the Zambian flavors, garnish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice before serving.

Serving advice

Serve the Zambian-Inspired Tokushima Ramen hot in individual bowls. Provide chopsticks and spoons for an authentic ramen experience. Encourage your guests to mix the toppings into the broth for a burst of flavors in every spoonful.

Presentation advice

To elevate the presentation, arrange the toppings in an organized manner on top of the noodles. Sprinkle some sesame seeds and drizzle a little sesame oil over the dish for an added touch of elegance.