Macedonian-Style Creamy Pork Ramen

Ingredients

In this Macedonian adaptation of tonkotsu ramen, we infuse the broth with Macedonian spices and herbs, such as oregano, thyme, and paprika, to give it a unique Mediterranean twist. Additionally, we incorporate local Macedonian vegetables, like bell peppers and zucchini, to add freshness and a touch of crunch to the dish. The result is a fusion ramen that combines the creaminess of tonkotsu with the vibrant flavors of Macedonian cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Tonkotsu ramen, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) pork bones 500g (1.1 lb) pork bones
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped 1 onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 carrot, sliced 1 carrot, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 zucchini, thinly sliced 1 zucchini, thinly sliced
• 4 cups (950ml) chicken broth 4 cups (950ml) chicken broth
• 2 cups (470ml) water 2 cups (470ml) water
• 200g (7 oz) ramen noodles 200g (7 oz) ramen noodles
• 2 soft-boiled eggs 2 soft-boiled eggs
• 200g (7 oz) pork loin, thinly sliced 200g (7 oz) pork loin, thinly sliced
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Chili flakes, for garnish Chili flakes, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 35g, 5g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 5g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant.
2. 2.
   Add the pork bones to the pot and cook until browned on all sides.
3. 3.
   Stir in the paprika, dried oregano, and dried thyme, and cook for another minute to release their flavors.
4. 4.
   Add the sliced carrot, bell pepper, and zucchini to the pot, and sauté for a few minutes until slightly softened.
5. 5.
   Pour in the chicken broth and water, and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 2-3 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. 6.
   While the broth is simmering, cook the ramen noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
7. 7.
   In a separate pot, bring water to a boil and add the eggs. Cook for 6-7 minutes for a soft-boiled consistency. Remove the eggs from the pot, run them under cold water, and peel them.
8. 8.
   Season the pork slices with salt and pepper, and cook them in a hot skillet until browned and cooked through.
9. 9.
   To serve, divide the cooked ramen noodles among bowls. Ladle the hot broth over the noodles, and top with the soft-boiled eggs, pork slices, fresh cilantro, and a sprinkle of chili flakes.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Pork bones — For a richer and creamier broth, use pork bones with some meat attached.
• Ramen noodles — Cook the noodles al dente to maintain their chewy texture.
• Soft-boiled eggs — To achieve a perfectly soft-boiled egg, cook for 6-7 minutes and immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a few drops of Macedonian ajvar (red pepper relish) to the broth.
• Customize your toppings by adding sliced cherry tomatoes, cucumber, or olives for a Mediterranean twist.
• If you prefer a thicker broth, simmer the pork bones for an additional hour.
• To save time, you can use pre-cooked pork slices or leftover roasted pork instead of cooking them from scratch.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique Macedonian ramen flavor.

Serving advice

Serve the Macedonian-Style Creamy Pork Ramen hot in individual bowls. Garnish with fresh cilantro and chili flakes for added flavor and visual appeal.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, arrange the toppings neatly on top of the noodles and pour the hot broth over them. Sprinkle some additional herbs and chili flakes on top for a pop of color.