HOMEMADE PORK RAMEN

A rich, soul-warming bowl featuring tender slow-cooked pork and customizable toppings

KEY INFO:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 4-8 hours (depending on method)
Total Time: 4-8.25 hours
Servings: 4
Difficulty: Moderate
Contains: Gluten, soy
Cost: $20-25

EQUIPMENT NEEDED:

Slow cooker OR Instant Pot
Large knife and cutting board
Broiling pan or skillet
Large serving bowls
Ladle

INGREDIENTS:

For the Pork & Broth:

1.5 lbs (680g) pork shoulder/butt
8 cups (2L) chicken stock
3 tbsp (45ml) soy sauce
2 tbsp (30g) white miso paste
4 cloves garlic, minced
2-inch (5cm) ginger, grated
1 medium onion, sliced

For Serving:

12 oz (340g) fresh ramen noodles
4 soft-boiled eggs
2 cups bean sprouts
4 green onions, sliced
Nori sheets
Chili oil to taste

METHOD:

Place sliced onions in slow cooker base
Season pork with salt and pepper, place on onions
Combine stock, soy sauce, miso, garlic, and ginger; pour over pork
Cook on LOW for 7-8 hours or HIGH for 4 hours
Remove pork, shred, and broil for 5-6 minutes until crispy
Cook noodles separately according to package instructions
Assemble bowls: noodles, broth, crispy pork, toppings

CRUCIAL TIPS:

Don’t skip broiling the pork – creates essential texture
Cook noodles just before serving
Taste broth before serving – adjust seasoning if needed
Store components separately if making ahead

STORAGE & SCALING:

Broth and pork freeze well for up to 3 months
Double recipe works in 6qt+ slow cooker
Refrigerate assembled bowls max 2 days

VARIATIONS:

Spicy: Add 1-2 tbsp chili paste to broth
Creamy: Stir in 1 cup coconut milk at end
Quick version: Use ground pork, ready in 30 minutes

COMMON MISTAKES:

Overcooking noodles
Not seasoning pork before cooking
Adding all garnishes to leftover portions
Using low-quality broth base

I’ve found through testing that the key to restaurant-quality ramen at home is layering flavors and textures. The combination of tender slow-cooked pork with crispy edges, chewy noodles, and fresh toppings creates that perfect bowl you’re craving.