The Best Cheeses for Ramen

Are you looking to take your ramen game to the next level?

Look no further than adding cheese to your bowl of noodles.

But what type of cheese to add to ramen, you may ask?

Some of the best cheeses for ramen include American sliced cheese, mozzarella, cheddar, and parmesan. These types of cheeses are mild but flavorful enough to add a delicious richness to your ramen dish without overpowering it.

The answer depends on the type of ramen you’re making and your personal preferences.

In this article, we’ll explore the best types of cheese to add to different types of ramen, as well as tips for how to add cheese to your ramen to take it from ordinary to extraordinary.

Get ready to elevate your ramen game with the perfect cheese pairing!

What makes cheese a good addition to ramen?

Adding cheese to ramen may seem unconventional, but it can take your bowl of noodles to the next level.

Here are some reasons why cheese makes a great addition to ramen:

Flavor enhancement: Cheese can add a depth of flavor to ramen that may be lacking without it. Depending on the type of cheese used, it can add a sharpness, nuttiness, or creaminess to the dish.
The saltiness of cheese can also enhance the flavor of the broth and complement the other ingredients in the dish.
Creaminess and texture: Cheese can add a creamy, velvety texture to ramen that is often missing without it. The richness of cheese can make the broth thicker and heartier.
The texture of cheese can also provide a contrast to the chewy noodles and crunchy vegetables in the dish.
Nutritional benefits: Cheese is a good source of calcium and protein, which can be beneficial for those who may not be getting enough of these nutrients in their diet.

Adding cheese to ramen can also make it more filling and satisfying, helping to prevent overeating or snacking later on.

Types of cheese that work well in ramen

Not all types of cheese are created equal when it comes to adding them to ramen. Here are some of the best types of cheese that work well in this dish:

1. Parmesan

Parmesan cheese adds a salty and nutty flavor to ramen.
It’s a hard cheese that can be grated or shaved and added to the dish before serving.

2. Cheddar

Cheddar cheese adds a sharp and tangy flavor to ramen.
It can be grated or melted into the broth for added creaminess.

3. Feta

Feta cheese adds a tangy and salty flavor to ramen.
It can be crumbled on top of the dish for added texture and flavor.

4. Gouda

Gouda cheese adds a nutty and slightly sweet flavor to ramen.

It can be grated or melted into the broth for added creaminess.

5. Blue Cheese

Blue cheese adds a bold and tangy flavor to ramen.
It can be crumbled on top of the dish for added texture and flavor.

When adding cheese to ramen, it’s important to consider the type of ramen you’re making and which flavors will complement the dish best.

Keep reading to find out which types of ramen pair well with different types of cheese.

Pairing cheese with different types of ramen

Different types of ramen call for different types of cheese.

Here are some pairings to consider:

1. Miso Ramen

Miso ramen is a rich and savory dish that pairs well with nutty and slightly sweet cheeses like gouda or parmesan.
Grated or melted gouda or parmesan can be added to the broth for added creaminess and flavor.

2. Shoyu Ramen

Shoyu ramen is a soy sauce-based broth that pairs well with sharp and tangy cheeses like cheddar or parmesan.
Grated or melted cheddar or parmesan can be added to the broth for added creaminess and flavor.

3. Tonkotsu Ramen

Tonkotsu ramen is a creamy and rich pork-based broth that pairs well with tangy and salty cheeses like feta or blue cheese.
Crumbled feta or blue cheese can be added on top of the dish for added texture and flavor.

4. Vegetarian Ramen

Vegetarian ramen is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of cheeses depending on the other ingredients in the dish.
Nutty and slightly sweet cheeses like gouda or parmesan work well with vegetable-based broths, while tangy and salty cheeses like feta or blue cheese can complement the flavors of mushrooms or tofu.

Tips for adding cheese to ramen

Adding cheese to ramen can be a game-changer, but it’s important to do it right. Here are some tips for adding cheese to your ramen:

1. When to add cheese

Cheese should be added to the ramen near the end of cooking or just before serving to prevent it from becoming too stringy or overcooked.
Soft cheeses like feta or blue cheese can be added on top of the dish just before serving.

2. How much cheese to add

The amount of cheese to add to ramen depends on personal preference and the type of cheese being used.
Start with a small amount and add more as needed, tasting the dish as you go.

3. Recommended cooking techniques

Hard cheeses like parmesan or cheddar can be grated or shaved and added directly to the broth for added creaminess.
Soft cheeses like feta or blue cheese can be crumbled on top of the dish just before serving.
Cheeses can also be melted into the broth for added creaminess and flavor.

FAQ

What cheese is best for spicy ramen?

When it comes to spicy ramen, a creamy and mild cheese like mozzarella or Monterey Jack can help balance out the heat. Alternatively, a sharp and tangy cheese like cheddar or parmesan can complement the spiciness of the broth.

Does Swiss cheese taste good with ramen?

Swiss cheese can be used in ramen, but it may not be the best option. The mild and nutty flavor of Swiss cheese may not add much to the dish, and its melting point is lower than other types of cheese, making it more likely to become stringy when melted.

How do you add cheese to Top ramen?

To add cheese to Top ramen, cook the noodles and drain off the water. Add a small amount of butter or oil to the noodles and stir in grated or sliced cheese. Mix well until the cheese is melted and evenly distributed.

Do Japanese put cheese on ramen?

Cheese is not traditionally used in Japanese ramen dishes, but it has become a popular addition in some restaurants and among home cooks. The use of cheese in ramen is seen as a fusion of Japanese and Western cuisine.

Conclusion

In conclusion, adding cheese to ramen can take your bowl of noodles to the next level. By choosing the right type of cheese and pairing it with the right type of ramen, you can enhance the flavors and textures of the dish.

So, what is the best cheese for ramen?

Some of the best cheese for ramen are Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, Parmesan, and Cheddar. You can also use American sliced cheese or Gouda for a more mellow flavor. Try adding some crumbled feta to give your dish an extra salty kick.

When adding cheese to ramen, it’s important to consider the type of ramen you’re making and which flavors will complement the dish best. Cheese can be added directly to the broth, melted into the broth, or crumbled on top of the dish for added texture and flavor.