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Sapporo Ramen

Sapporo Ramen

A heavenly bowl from Sapporo featuring rich miso broth and curly noodles

About Sapporo Ramen

Sapporo Ramen (札幌ラーメン, Sapporo ramen) is one of Japan’s iconic ramen dishes, originating from Sapporo, Hokkaido. Known for its rich miso-based soup and springy, curly noodles, it holds a special place in Japanese culinary history. Its story began in the postwar era with a burgeoning street food culture. In 1946, a pork bone-based ramen served at a food stall gained popularity, embedding ramen culture into Sapporo's heart. The true birth of Sapporo Ramen as we know it today came in 1955 when Morito Ohmiya, the founder of the ramen shop "Ajino Sanpei," created Japan’s first miso ramen. Since then, it has become a cherished dish perfectly suited to Sapporo’s cold climate and celebrated across the country.

The hearty broth of Sapporo Ramen combines a pork and chicken stock base with rich miso, which is further enhanced with lard to retain heat and keep the soup steaming hot until the last bite. The medium-thick curly noodles are perfect for catching the flavorful broth. Common toppings include stir-fried bean sprouts, onions, chashu (braised pork), bamboo shoots, scallions, and even a touch of butter, creating a fragrant and satisfying bowl.

Nutritionally, Sapporo Ramen is noteworthy. Miso is rich in B vitamins and minerals that promote health, while bean sprouts and onions add a boost of dietary fiber. However, the soup is high in sodium, so moderation, like leaving some broth behind, is recommended.

Today, Sapporo boasts over 1,000 ramen shops, each offering unique variations of the dish. Popular destinations like the “Original Sapporo Ramen Alley” and “Sapporo Ramen Republic” allow visitors to explore a vast range of flavors, from traditional recipes to creative modern takes. Sapporo Ramen stands out among regional ramen styles: while Hakata ramen features a creamy pork broth with thin noodles, and Kitakata ramen is soy sauce-based with flat noodles, Sapporo Ramen’s distinctive combination of robust miso soup and curly noodles is unique and unforgettable.

Crafted with the natural bounty of Hokkaido and the dedication of its artisans, Sapporo Ramen is cherished for its rich, deep flavor. Pair it with locally brewed Hokkaido beer or a crisp, dry sake for an even more delightful experience. Don’t miss the opportunity to savor this culinary masterpiece!