Recipe: Curry Ramen with Fish and Shrimp

Curry Ramen with Fish is a delicious twist on traditional curry ramen, combining the rich and spicy flavors of Japanese curry with the lightness of fish. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy a lighter ramen that is still full of flavor.

Ingredients:

For the Curry Broth:

• 1 liter fish stock (or dashi)

• 2 tablespoons Japanese curry paste (curry roux)

• 1 tablespoon miso paste (preferably white miso)

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon mirin

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 piece of ginger (5 cm), grated

• 1 carrot, thinly sliced

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips

• 100 g shiitake mushrooms, sliced

• 200 g white fish fillet (cod, tilapia, or another firm fish), cut into pieces

• 100 g peeled shrimp (optional)

For the Noodles:

• 400 g ramen noodles

For the Toppings:

• Green onions: Finely chopped

• Cilantro: Fresh, chopped (optional)

• Soft-boiled egg: Halved

• Nori: Dried seaweed sheets, cut into thin strips

• Sesame seeds: For garnish

• Togarashi (Japanese chili pepper): For a spicy kick (optional)

• Lemon juice: To lightly drizzle before serving

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Curry Broth:

1. Sauté the aromatics:

   • In a large pot, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the garlic, ginger, and onion. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent.

2. Add the vegetables:

   • Stir in the carrot, red bell pepper, and shiitake mushrooms. Sauté for 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.

3. Incorporate the curry paste:

   • Add the Japanese curry paste and cook with the vegetables for 2 minutes, until fragrant.

4. Add the broth:

   • Pour in the fish stock, then stir in the soy sauce, mirin, and miso paste. Mix well and bring to a boil.

5. Cook the fish and shrimp:

   • Add the fish pieces and shrimp (if using) to the broth. Reduce the heat and simmer gently for 10 to 15 minutes, until the fish is cooked and the flavors are well developed.

2. Prepare the Noodles:

1. Cook the noodles:

   • Cook the ramen noodles according to the package instructions. Drain well and divide them into serving bowls.

3. Assemble the Curry Ramen:

1. Pour the broth:

   • Ladle the curry broth with fish, shrimp, and vegetables over the noodles in each bowl.

2. Add the toppings:

   • Top with halved soft-boiled eggs, chopped green onions, nori strips, and sesame seeds. Add fresh cilantro for a hint of freshness and a sprinkle of togarashi for some heat. A light squeeze of lemon juice can also enhance the dish’s flavors.

3. Serve:

   • Serve immediately and enjoy this fragrant and light ramen, perfect as a seafood-inspired twist on classic curry ramen.

Beverage Pairing:

Pair this dish with warm sake or Japanese green tea to complement the umami flavors.