Inexpensive Japanese ramen with creamy broth & potent do-it-yourself chilli oil hidden in residential space

If there’s a delicacies that holds a particular place in my coronary heart, it’s Japanese delicacies. The nuanced flavours of seemingly uncomplicated dishes have been a supply of consolation all through my upbringing. Subsequently, after I obtained a suggestion for Chiba Ramen in Cheras, my pleasure knew no bounds.

A mere 20-minute drive introduced me to an previous residential space behind Pasar Taman Cheras, which acquired me all confused at first. I used to be searching for a ramen store, not another person’s home. Ultimately I noticed the small store situated on the floor ground of the constructing.

As I entered, the aroma of ramen broth engulfed me and on cue my abdomen growled. I used to be able to eat. As I perused the menu, I noticed that almost all of ramen decisions have been moderately priced, starting from RM12 to RM23. In my opinion, this was a extra inexpensive choice in comparison with most different institutions.

What I attempted at Chiba Ramen

Nearly all of the ramen broths featured tonkatsu (pork), which I couldn’t devour. Consequently, I opted for the Supaishi Ebi Ramen (RM23). This variation is actually a prawn broth ramen, the place the broth is crafted by simmering prawn shells, heads, and sometimes complete prawns, mixed with fragrant components like garlic, ginger, onions, and various seasonings.

After simply 5 minutes, the attractive aroma of the prawn ramen wafted via the air, reaching me earlier than it was even positioned on my desk. The perfume was so pleasant that I discovered myself virtually salivating at that second.

The dish showcased a wealthy, purple creamy broth accompanied by ramen noodles, 3 prawns, nitamago (lava egg), minced hen, kikurage (black fungus mushroom), and shredded leek. I first targeted on the noodles, which exhibited a springy, chewy texture. These have been the thinner selection, which absorbed extra broth in comparison with their thicker counterparts.

I then had a go at every of the toppings. The black fungus mushroom contributed a delicate candy flavour, additionally introducing a textural distinction. I’d say it’s the Japanese equal of taugeh. Whereas the minced hen supplied an additional wealthy, meaty essence that enhances the seafood notes of the prawn broth.

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It contributed a delicate sweetness and a barely earthy undertone to the general profile of the dish. The feel of the minced hen was tender, offering a pleasing distinction to the noodles and different substances within the ramen.

The nitamago achieved sheer perfection. In my view, a bowl of ramen is incomplete with out a luscious egg to harmonise with the broth and produce the dish collectively, and this egg completed exactly that. Each mouthful of its velvety creaminess was completely heavenly.

The prawns remained complete, inclusive of their shells and heads, imparting a richer umami flavour to the dish. Regardless of the problem of peeling, the prawn supplied a pleasant mixture of sweetness and crunchiness. 3 items proved to be greater than adequate to savour the essence of the dish.

Now, I turned my consideration to the focus of the dish— the prawn broth. It emitted a distinctly sturdy prawn aroma. The broth featured a lavish umami essence, accompanied by a delicate candy aftertaste. With every spoonful, the intricate layers of flavours unravelled, although I couldn’t shake the sensation that it lacked a sure factor.

And now, introducing the do-it-yourself chilli oil. At this level, I used to be taking an opportunity— I’m not sometimes inclined so as to add further components to a dish as I recognize it in its authentic kind. But, an instinct compelled me so as to add the chilli oil.

It turned out to be some of the rewarding selections I’ve ever made. The chilli oil injected a vital spicy factor into the broth’s general flavour profile, whereas additionally elevating the savoury undertones. It was so spectacular that I discovered myself requesting for extra chilli oil. The scattered darkish purple spots within the broth actually added a particular character to the dish.

Ultimate ideas

Chiba Ramen has undeniably secured a spot on my record of most well-liked ramen spots. Whereas I sometimes lean in direction of shoyu ramen, the Supaishi Ebi Ramen gained me over, significantly with the addition of the do-it-yourself chilli oil, which added an additional layer of satisfaction to my coronary heart (and tummy).

I can envision myself returning for extra ramen quickly, and maybe delving into the number of udon picks as nicely. Nonetheless, that’s a culinary journey for an additional day.

In case you’re looking out for cheap ramen with out the bustling crowds, Chiba Ramen is the go-to place.

Anticipated harm: RM12 – RM26 per pax

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