Homemade Basic Ramen Broth Recipe

Introduction

This basic ramen broth is a comforting foundation for any ramen bowl. Using simple ingredients like chicken bones, garlic, ginger, and soy sauce, it creates a rich and flavorful base that’s easy to make at home.

Ingredients

• Chicken bones – 2 pounds
• Garlic – 4 cloves, smashed
• Fresh ginger – 2-inch piece, sliced
• Soy sauce – 1/4 cup
• Water – 8 cups

Instructions

1. Step 1: Place the chicken bones, smashed garlic, and sliced ginger in a large pot. Add the water and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Step 2: Reduce the heat to low and simmer gently for at least 4 hours, occasionally skimming off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface.
3. Step 3: Strain the broth through a fine mesh sieve into a clean pot or bowl to remove solids.
4. Step 4: Stir in the soy sauce while the broth is still warm. Adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Step 5: Use the broth immediately with your favorite ramen noodles and toppings, or let it cool and refrigerate for later use.

Tips & Variations

• For a deeper flavor, roast the chicken bones before simmering to add a rich, toasted note to the broth.
• Add vegetables like green onions, shiitake mushrooms, or kombu to enhance umami.
• Simmer the broth longer (up to 8 hours) for a thicker, more concentrated taste.
• Use low-sodium soy sauce to better control the saltiness of the broth.

Storage

Store the broth in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the broth in portions for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other bones for the broth?

Yes, pork or beef bones can also be used for ramen broth, though cooking times and flavors will vary. Chicken bones provide a lighter broth, while pork creates a richer, thicker texture.

Is it necessary to simmer the broth for several hours?

Simmering for several hours extracts maximum flavor and collagen from the bones, resulting in a richer broth. Shorter cooking times can be used but will yield a lighter taste.

Homemade Basic Ramen Broth Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 140 reviews

This Basic Ramen Broth recipe creates a rich and flavorful foundation for traditional Japanese ramen by simmering chicken bones, garlic, ginger, and soy sauce. This broth is perfect for layering with your favorite noodles and toppings, delivering a comforting, hearty bowl of ramen.

• Author: Daniel
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
• Total Time: 4 hours 45 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6 cups of ramen broth 1x
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Japanese

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Broth Ingredients

• 2 lbs chicken bones
• 4 cloves garlic, smashed
• 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, sliced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 8 cups water

Instructions

1. Prepare ingredients: Gather the chicken bones, smashed garlic cloves, sliced ginger, soy sauce, and water. Make sure to rinse the chicken bones under cold water to remove any impurities for a cleaner broth.
2. Simmer the broth: In a large stockpot, combine the chicken bones, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and water. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 4 to 6 hours. Skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface occasionally to ensure a clear broth.
3. Strain the broth: After simmering, remove the pot from heat, and carefully strain the broth through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into another pot or large bowl to remove the solids.
4. Use or store: Use the broth immediately for ramen or allow it to cool before refrigerating or freezing. This broth can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Notes

• Roasting the chicken bones beforehand can deepen the broth flavor but is optional.
• Adjust soy sauce quantity to taste for saltiness.
• Add additional aromatics like green onions or dried shiitake mushrooms for more complexity.
• Do not boil vigorously; keep it at a gentle simmer to avoid cloudy broth.
• Skimming scum prevents bitter flavors and keeps broth clear.

Keywords: ramen broth, chicken broth, Japanese soup base, homemade ramen broth, basic ramen stock