In terms of popularity and sheer quantity eaten each day, ramen noodles must surely rank as one of the world’s great culinary successes. Originating in China (the alleged home of all noodles) where it is called “Lo-Mein,” ramen has since spread to many parts of the world and been adapted to a variety of regional tastes and preferences. Korean ramen for example often contains black beans, while ramen in Thailand is very spicy with exceptionally thin noodles. Americans seem to prefer meat and mushroom flavors while the Japanese like the taste of seafood with mild spices. Instant ramen is appreciated by college students the world over as the fuel which keeps them going through long cram sessions. And ramen aficionados in Japan are even known to make pilgrimages to famous noodle restaurants in their country just for the chance to sample a unique and celebrated variety. In Japan one can find a ramen noodle shop in nearly every neighborhood as well as near train stations and anywhere else people gather. A bowl of ramen is seen as a cheap, fast and delicious meal, perfect for budget conscious diners or folks on the go. The typical Japanese ramen restaurant is run by a husband and wife team who work together like a well-oiled machine, with the wife taking orders and acting as cashier while her husband works behind the counter. The work is hard and the hours long yet the reward is great for those who perfect the perfect bowl of ramen (the secret is in the soup) and are rewarded …
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