Ramen: The latest Food Craze in Toronto

Every time I read or hear people talk about Ramen, I always remember the cult Japanese movie Tampopo - a rather unique film about food, gangsters, and a trucker. But the part of the movie that will make you heading to the nearest Ramen house right after the ending is what I liked the best: the story of a single mother raising a young boy and trying to learn about making good Ramen.

For those of you who may not be familiar with this food, think of it as the Japanese version of Chinese noodle soup, except it is utterly sublime when made with great care and skills.  As such, this simple Japanese comfort food has been elevated to gourmet status by outsiders who are just discovering the real McCoy for the first time, after years of really bad versions in fast food and pseudo-Japanese spots.

Momofuku Ramen

Just recently, Toronto has witnessed such an explosion of Ramen houses that it's now the trendiest food to have, creating long line-ups and endless reviews online, as well as in major papers and magazines. In the last 4 months alone, 5 ramen houses have opened, including a New York import from David Chang's Momofuku empire. Whether this trend will survive a long time is hard to tell given the finicky and still-developing food culture in the city.

But, first, let me tell you the two most important ingredients that make a truly satisfying and superb ramen: Perfect noodles - preferably hand-made from the best wheat or other fine grains; and skillfully-made broth that has been simmered and NOT boiled for hours, using quality meat and bones, vegetables, spices, onions, etc. A good ramen usually has a topping of tender meat or seafood, and some have poached egg, wild mushrooms and miso added to the broth. If you haven't had a good Ramen and you live in an urban area with a good ramen house, you really must give it a try.

Back to Tampopo, one scene I like is about an old man and his young protegé on how to enjoy ramen. It is delightful to watch, if only to understand the Master's ritual, which treats this simple dish with such respect and honour.

Enjoy!